Discover the Natural Beauty of Kentenia State Forest
Experience the serenity and beauty of Kentenia State Forest, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in Kentucky.
Kentenia State Forest is a hidden gem in Kentucky, offering breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and a plethora of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. With its lush landscapes and serene atmosphere, it's the perfect escape for tourists seeking tranquility and exploration.
A brief summary to Kentenia State Forest
- Putney, Kentucky, 40865, US
- +1502-564-4496
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better wildlife sightings.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic spots throughout the forest.
- Bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water, especially if you plan on hiking the more challenging trails.
- Check for any seasonal events or guided tours that may enhance your visit.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from any point along the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail. Navigate to KY-80 and head east. Continue on KY-80 until you reach the junction with US-119. Turn left onto US-119 and drive for about 10 miles. You will then take a right onto KY-476 which will lead you to Putney. Follow the signs for Kentenia State Forest, which is located at the address Putney, KY 40865. The total driving distance from Sheltowee Trace varies based on your starting point but expect it to be about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic conditions.
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Public Transportation
Public transportation options may be limited in rural Kentucky. However, you can take a bus to Harlan, KY via Greyhound or a similar service. Once in Harlan, you will need to arrange for a taxi or a rideshare service to cover the remaining distance to Kentenia State Forest, as public transport does not directly serve this area. The taxi ride from Harlan to Kentenia State Forest will take approximately 25 minutes and cost around $30-$50, depending on the service and traffic.
Discover more about Kentenia State Forest
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Mother Goose House
38.8 km
Discover the magic of childhood tales at the Mother Goose House, a whimsical historical landmark in Hazard, Kentucky, that brings nursery rhymes to life.
John Fox Jr. Museum
39.4 km
Uncover the stories of the Appalachian region at the John Fox Jr. Museum, where history and culture intertwine in captivating exhibits.
Old Joe Clark Historical Site
66.5 km
Discover the rich history of Kentucky at the Old Joe Clark Historical Site, a captivating landmark full of stories and scenic beauty.
Long Island Of The Holston
69.9 km
Discover the peaceful beauty and historical significance of Long Island of the Holston, a must-visit memorial park in Kingsport, Tennessee.
General Longstreet Museum
74.2 km
Explore the legacy of General James Longstreet at this engaging museum in Russellville, TN, featuring interactive exhibits and a wealth of historical artifacts.
Crockett Tavern Museum
78.3 km
Explore the legacy of Davy Crockett at the Crockett Tavern Museum, a captivating journey through Tennessee's frontier history.
Boone Salt Springs Historical Marker
80.5 km
Explore the Boone Salt Springs Historical Marker, a captivating tribute to Kentucky's rich heritage and the significance of salt springs in America's frontier history.
Colonel Robert McFarland Historical Marker
82.9 km
Explore the Colonel Robert McFarland Historical Marker in Morristown, TN—a significant tribute to a Revolutionary War hero and a slice of American history.
Pittsburg and Wilderness Road Historical Marker
83.8 km
Explore the Pittsburg and Wilderness Road Historical Marker, a pivotal site commemorating the early American westward expansion in Kentucky's scenic landscape.
Three Forks Historical Center
84.5 km
Uncover the fascinating history of Beattyville at the Three Forks Historical Center, a must-visit museum showcasing local heritage and culture.
Kentucky golden horse
86.4 km
Discover the Kentucky Golden Horse Sculpture, a stunning tribute to equestrian heritage and a perfect pit stop for travelers in Williamsburg, Kentucky.
Witt Foundry Historial Site
86.5 km
Explore the Witt Foundry Historical Site in Morristown, TN, and uncover the stories of Tennessee's industrial past and craftsmanship.
Hatfield McCoy Historic Feud Driving Tour
87.5 km
Discover the legendary Hatfield-McCoy feud on this immersive driving tour in Pikeville, Kentucky, where history and stunning landscapes intertwine.
Gray Fossil Site
87.6 km
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Hands On Discovery Center
87.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Black Mountain Off-Road Park & Black Mountain Thunder Zipline
5.4 km
Experience the thrill of off-roading and ziplining at Black Mountain Off-Road Park, Kentucky's top destination for adventure and breathtaking views.
Kingdom Come State Park
21.8 km
Explore the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Kingdom Come State Park, a hidden gem in Kentucky's Appalachian region.
Kingdom Come State Park Visitors Center
21.8 km
Explore the Kingdom Come State Park Visitors Center in Cumberland, KY, your gateway to outdoor adventures and stunning natural beauty.
Log Rock
22.1 km
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Kentucky Coal Mining Museum
23.9 km
Discover the captivating history of coal mining at the Kentucky Coal Mining Museum in Benham, where heritage and stories come to life.
Portal 31 Coal Mine & Tour
26.9 km
Explore the fascinating world of coal mining at Portal 31 Coal Mine & Tour in Lynch, Kentucky, where history comes alive underground.
Black Mountain
28.6 km
Discover Black Mountain, Kentucky's highest peak, where nature's beauty meets rich history, offering breathtaking views and outdoor adventure.
Hyden City Park
30.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and recreational charm of Hyden City Park in Kentucky, a perfect family-friendly destination for outdoor adventures.
Redbird Crest Sugar Creek Trailhead
32.7 km
Uncover the natural beauty of Redbird Crest Sugar Creek Trailhead, a prime hiking destination in Kentucky's stunning wilderness.
Pine Mountain
33.5 km
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Bullitt Park
39.1 km
Discover the natural beauty and recreational charm of Bullitt Park in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, a perfect escape for families and nature lovers.
Carr Creek State Park
39.2 km
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Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park
39.3 km
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Hensley Settlement
39.4 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty of Hensley Settlement, a historical place museum in the heart of Kentucky.
Boone's Ridge
39.5 km
Explore Boone's Ridge, Kentucky's hidden wildlife park, where breathtaking views and diverse wildlife await every nature enthusiast.
Essential places to dine
Sonny's BBQ
80.1 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Sonny's BBQ in Corbin - where every bite tells a story of flavor.
Pal's Sudden Service
90.7 km
Experience the taste of fast food excellence at Pal's Sudden Service in Blountville - where quality meets quick service.
Giovanni's Italiano Cucina
91.9 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Giovanni's Italiano Cucina in Blountville – where every dish tells a story.
Chick-fil-A
92.7 km
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Johnny Brusco's New York Style Pizza
92.7 km
Experience authentic New York-style pizza at Johnny Brusco's in Bristol – a delicious blend of tradition and flavor awaits you!
Drake's Bristol
92.9 km
Discover a culinary haven at Drake's Bristol, where burgers meet sushi in a vibrant atmosphere perfect for any gathering.
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill
93.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of fast food and sweet treats at Dairy Queen Grill & Chill in Campton, KY - A family favorite!
Bristol Cafe & Market
96.5 km
Discover delicious Southern cuisine at Bristol Cafe & Market – where fresh ingredients meet friendly service in a cozy setting.
Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen
96.6 km
Experience the essence of Southern hospitality at Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen in Johnson City – where comfort food meets quality ingredients.
Juniper
96.7 km
Discover Juniper in Johnson City, TN: where unique cuisine meets Southern hospitality for an unforgettable dining experience.
The Old Lighthouse Diner
96.7 km
Experience classic American breakfasts at The Old Lighthouse Diner in Bristol, TN - where nostalgia meets deliciousness.
The Mad Greek Restaurant
96.9 km
Savor authentic Greek cuisine at The Mad Greek Restaurant in Bristol—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.
Carrabba's Italian Grill
97.0 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Carrabba's Italian Grill in Johnson City – where fresh ingredients meet warm hospitality.
Top Dog
97.1 km
Discover Top Dog in Bristol, TN: where delicious cuisine meets warm hospitality for an unforgettable dining experience.
Misaki Japanese Steakhouse
97.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hot Off The Press Boutique
15.3 km
Explore unique local fashion at Hot Off The Press Boutique in Harlan, Kentucky, where trendy style meets charming local flair.
Whistle Stop Antiques
54.0 km
Discover unique vintage collectibles and charming decor at Whistle Stop Antiques in Cumberland Gap, Tennessee.
Gertie's Commissary
54.1 km
Discover unique antiques and local souvenirs at Gertie's Commissary, a cherished gift shop in the heart of Cumberland Gap, TN.
Gap Creek Coffee House
54.2 km
Explore the rustic charm and delightful brews of Gap Creek Coffee House in Cumberland Gap, Tennessee - your cozy retreat for great coffee and pastries.
Village Shops
54.6 km
Explore unique gifts and local treasures at Village Shops in Harrogate, TN - a charming destination for every tourist.
Signatures Formal Boutique
55.0 km
Explore Signatures Formal Boutique in Middlesboro, KY for the finest selection of bridal gowns, tuxedos, and formal wear to make your special occasion unforgettable.
Roses Discount Store
55.2 km
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Bath & Body Works
55.3 km
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Middlesboro Mall
55.3 km
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Antique & Modern Jewelry
56.7 km
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A Touch of Class
56.7 km
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Allstar Apparel and Awards
58.7 km
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The Shop
59.0 km
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Pickers Paradise
62.1 km
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Walmart
70.9 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sasquatchi Hibachi
21.0 km
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The Butchers Pub - Pineville
46.4 km
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Herndon J Evans Lodge
51.0 km
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The Juice Spot
53.9 km
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Nineteen19 Grill and Bar
54.1 km
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Angelo's In The Gap
54.1 km
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Caboose Saloon
54.1 km
Experience the charm of Caboose Saloon, a local bar in Cumberland Gap, Tennessee, known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse drink selection.
Frosty Mug Drive In
54.8 km
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El Mariachi Mexican Grill
55.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at El Mariachi Mexican Grill in Middlesboro, a vibrant destination for flavorful dishes and lively atmosphere.
Bubby's of Middlesboro
55.1 km
Experience the authentic taste of Southern barbecue at Bubby's of Middlesboro, where every dish is crafted to perfection.
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
55.2 km
Experience the warmth of Southern hospitality at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Middlesboro, KY, where hearty meals and nostalgic gifts await.
Pelancho's
55.4 km
Discover authentic Mexican cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere at Pelancho's, Middlesboro's top spot for delicious food and drinks.
Royal Waffle King
55.6 km
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Sonic Drive-In
55.6 km
Experience the nostalgia of American fast food at Sonic Drive-In in Middlesboro, Kentucky, where flavorful meals and a unique drive-in experience await.
La Esperanza Mexican Restaurant
55.6 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant atmosphere at La Esperanza Mexican Restaurant in Middlesboro, Kentucky.
