Pine Mountain Triple Crown

About this event

# 🌲 Pine Mountain Triple Crown ## Blanton Forest • Kingdom Come State Park • Bad Branch Falls **Saturday, September 12** Experience three of Pine Mountain's signature landscapes in one unforgettable full-day adventure. We'll begin in the ancient old-growth forest of Blanton Forest, continue to the spectacular overlooks of Kingdom Come State Park, and finish with the dramatic gorge and waterfall at Bad Branch Falls. This is a balanced, rewarding day designed for hikers who enjoy variety, moderate challenges, and some of eastern Kentucky's finest scenery. *** # 🌄 Our Adventure ## 1\. Blanton Forest State Nature Preserve \(Moderate to Hard\) We'll begin the day hiking the **Knobby Rock Loop** @ **2.4 miles** through one of the largest remaining old-growth forests in the eastern United States. Blanton Forest protects approximately **2,400 acres** of ancient Appalachian forest with towering hemlocks, oaks, and hardwoods that have never been logged. Expect: * Optionally up to 4.5 miles of hiking * Steady elevation gain * Root-covered Appalachian trails * Massive old-growth trees * Quiet mountain forest This is a beautiful warm-up hike that immerses us in one of Kentucky's most remarkable natural areas. *** ## 2\. Kingdom Come State Park \(Easy–Moderate\) Next we'll travel to the crest of Pine Mountain and explore several of Kingdom Come State Park's iconic overlooks and natural features. Highlights include: * Eight scenic overlooks * Log Rock Arch * Panoramic views across the Cumberland Valley * Approximately 5 miles of easy to moderate hiking on short connecting trails These trails offer spectacular scenery with relatively little climbing, making this the perfect middle stop of the day. *** ## 3\. Bad Branch Falls State Nature Preserve \(Moderate–Hard\) We'll finish the day with one of Kentucky's classic waterfall hikes. Although only about **2.2 miles round trip**, this trail is the most technical of the day. Expect: * Wet sandstone * Boulder…