Attractions and Places To See around Stearns - Top 6
Best attractions and places to see around Stearns, Kentucky, offer a blend of natural landscapes and historical sites. This designated "Kentucky Trail Town" serves as a gateway to the Daniel Boone National Forest and the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. The region features rugged gorges, scenic rivers, and a concentration of natural bridges. Visitors can explore a variety of outdoor activities and learn about the area's coal mining history.
Best attractions and places to see around Stearns
…Last updated: April 26, 2026
Devils Jump
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Blue Heron Railroad Bridge
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Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
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Devil's Jump Overlook
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Cracks in the Rock
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The Blue Heron Bridge once carried cars to and from a coal mine. It was decommissioned in 1962 but refurbished in 1989 for non-motorized traffic.
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Straddling the border of Tennessee and Kentucky, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area offers rugged gorges, scenic rivers, and one of the highest concentrations of natural bridges in the Eastern United States. Visitors can hike, paddle, or ride through sandstone bluffs and forested trails while exploring remnants of former logging and mining communities like Blue Heron and No Business. The area’s rich natural and cultural history is preserved through interpretive signage, and adventurous travelers can even stay at the remote, trail-accessible Charit Creek Lodge.
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If you are running from Blue Heron and onto the Kentucky Trail, you have to cross over the Blue Heron Railroad Bridge. It once carried coal mine cars over the river until the site was abandoned in 1962. The bridge was renovated in 1989 for use by pedestrians as part of the area regeneration into an outdoor museum.
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Cracks in the Rock is exactly what it suggests, a crack that allows you to enter the sandstone rock. A series of steps and platforms allow you to explore the passages, a really fun and unique part of the Blue Heron Trail.
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You can hike to the Devils Jump Overlook from Blue Heron or just to the northwest from the Gorge Overlook Car Park. The former is a longer, hillier trail whereas the latter is a paved path of around 0.3 miles. It is a stunning viewpoint over the Devils Jump, a set of rapids on the Cumberland River South Fork. You will also find some shade and bench seating, the perfect place for lunch or a snack break.
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Devils Jump was the name given to the rapids in the early 19th century. When drilling a well nearby to look for salt water, one of the holes was so deep that it went into oil. Never having seen it before, the drillers were convinced they had drilled into hell. They sent a raftsman down river to try and identify what it was. He was tossed out of the raft by the rapids and on his return claimed that the Devil had jumped from a large rock, sunk the raft and stole his property.
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If you are hiking from Blue Heron and onto the Kentucky Trail, you have to cross over the Blue Heron Railroad Bridge. It once carried coal mine cars over the river until the site was abandoned in 1962. The bridge was renovated in 1989 for use by pedestrians as part of the area regeneration into an outdoor museum.
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Devils Jump was the name given to the rapids in the early 19th century. When drilling a well nearby to look for salt water, one of the holes was so deep that it went into oil. Never having seen it before, the drillers were convinced they had drilled into hell. They sent a raftsman downriver to try and identify what it was. He was tossed out of the raft by the rapids and on his return claimed that the Devil had jumped from a large rock, sunk the raft and stole his property.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Stearns?
Stearns is a gateway to significant natural areas. You can explore the vast Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, known for its rugged gorges, scenic rivers, and numerous natural bridges. The Daniel Boone National Forest is also easily accessible, offering extensive trails and natural beauty. Don't miss natural wonders like Yahoo Falls, one of Kentucky's tallest waterfalls, and the impressive Natural Arch Scenic Area.
Are there any impressive natural arches or unique rock formations to see?
Yes, the region is rich in unique geological formations. The Natural Arch Scenic Area, within the Daniel Boone National Forest, features an impressive sandstone arch spanning 100 feet wide. You can also find Split Bow Arch in the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. For a more interactive experience, explore Cracks in the Rock, a unique formation part of the Blue Heron Trail where you can navigate passages within sandstone.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints in the area?
For breathtaking views, visit the Devil's Jump Overlook. This viewpoint offers stunning vistas of the Devils Jump rapids on the Cumberland River South Fork. It's accessible via a paved path, making it an easy and rewarding stop.
What historical sites can I visit to learn about the region's past?
Stearns offers several historical sites. The Blue Heron Railroad Bridge, once used for coal transport, is now renovated for pedestrian use and provides access to the Kentucky Trail. Nearby, the Blue Heron Coal Mining Camp (Mine 18) is an outdoor museum that tells the story of an isolated coal mining community. You can also visit the McCreary County Museum, housed in the former Stearns Coal and Lumber Company headquarters, to learn about the area's rich history, including Native American times, pioneer life, and the coal and lumber industries.
Is there a way to experience the area's coal mining history firsthand?
Absolutely. The Big South Fork Scenic Railway offers a unique journey into the past. This historic railway plunges 600 feet into the Big South Fork gorge, transporting visitors along seven miles of track to the Blue Heron Coal Mining Camp. Here, you can explore the recreated outdoor museum and learn about the lives of coal miners through ghost structures and audio recordings.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Stearns?
Stearns provides several family-friendly options. The Natural Arch Scenic Area includes a concrete trail system, picnic sites, playgrounds, and shelters. The Big South Fork Scenic Railway is a fun experience for all ages, taking you on a scenic ride to the Blue Heron Coal Mining Camp. The Blue Heron Railroad Bridge is also suitable for family walks.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions around Stearns?
Yes, the Devil's Jump Overlook is wheelchair accessible, featuring a paved path that leads to the scenic viewpoint over the rapids. This allows everyone to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the area.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The region is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area and Daniel Boone National Forest offer extensive opportunities for hiking, paddling, fishing, biking, and climbing. You can explore rugged gorges, scenic rivers, and forested trails. For specific hiking routes, check out the Hiking around Stearns guide.
Are there hiking trails suitable for different skill levels?
Yes, the area offers a variety of trails. Within the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area and Daniel Boone National Forest, you'll find trails ranging from easy, paved paths like the one to Devil's Jump Overlook, to moderate and difficult routes. Examples include the moderate Blue Heron Trail loop and the more challenging Yahoo Falls loop. You can find more details on specific routes in the Hiking around Stearns guide.
What is the best time of year to visit Stearns for outdoor activities?
The spring and fall seasons are generally considered the best times to visit Stearns for outdoor activities. The weather is typically mild, making it ideal for hiking, paddling, and exploring. Fall also brings vibrant foliage, enhancing the scenic beauty of the national forest and river areas.
Are there dog-friendly trails or areas in Stearns?
Many trails within the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area and Daniel Boone National Forest are dog-friendly, though it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and check specific trail regulations before heading out. These natural areas provide ample space for you and your canine companion to enjoy the outdoors.
Can I do water-based activities like paddling in the area?
Yes, the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River, which flows through the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, offers excellent opportunities for paddling. You'll find both calm stretches suitable for beginners and challenging whitewater sections for experienced paddlers, making it a versatile destination for water-based adventures.
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