On June 30 Rangers from Wilderness Road State Park will conduct a popular, yet challenging, 9-mile round trip day hike that lives up to its reputation as the highest overlook in the Kentucky, Tennessee and Virginia tri-state area. 

It offers unparalleled views from its sheer 500 foot cliffs, and at nearly 3,500 feet elevation, White Rocks is the highest overlook in the tri-state area. Sand Cave is equally impressive and is known as the largest sandstone shelter in Kentucky. Both sites are part of the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. 

An aerial point of view of the majestic White Rocks on Cumberland

In the late 1700's, when Daniel Boone made his way through the Powell Valley, whether on a hunt, or when leading settlers, he often used the White Rocks as a reference, or landmark, to note that he was less than a day's travel away from the Cumberland Gap.

Today, the White Rocks stand proudly over the Powell's Valley, easily seen from miles away as travelers make their way along U.S. Highway 58, along a section now appropriately named Wilderness Road.

The Sand Cave, located just beyond the Virginia/Kentucky border, behind the White Rocks, has become one of the premier hiking destinations in the area. As hikers make their way down the path to the large sandstone ledge, they often find a relaxing waterfall that helps hide part of the entrance. Once inside, visitors are greeted with multiple colors of sand, thanks to the eroding red, green, yellow and orange colored rock that line the ceiling.

Along the hike there will be numerous photography opportunities with native wildlife, native plants and wildflowers, rock structures, overlooks and more, so bring your camera on this unique hiking experience. For the safety and comfort of all participants, please wear comfortable hiking boots or shoes. Flip flops and sandals are not recommended. 

There is no additional fee to participate in this hike, and while children are allowed, please consider the length and difficulty of this hike, as it may be too challenging for those unaccustomed to strenuous outdoors activities.

For more information, call 276-445-3065 or visit the park's website.