Nestled where the Bluegrass meets the Appalachian Mountains, Estill County is an ideal destination for an eastern Kentucky getaway. Home to the twin cities of Irvine and Ravenna, this hidden gem boasts a unique combination of river and hiking trails. Between its proximity to natural wonders like Red River Gorge and lively year-round events, Estill County has the perfect blend of adventure and small-town charm.
Can’t-Miss Experiences & Attractions
Outdoors & Recreation
Visit the Kentucky River Recreation Park for a scenic paddle on the river. The well-kept park offers soccer fields, a playground, and canoe/kayak access. Alternatively, check out Veteran’s Memorial Park in Ravenna, located near the historic rail yards. Enjoy a picnic at the pavilion, stroll on the manicured walking track, and pay your respects at the shrine dedicated to Estill County veterans.
Natural beauty awaits at the Lily Mountain Nature Preserve. With 560 acres of serene woodlands and hiking trails, this dog-friendly preserve is a hiker’s dream. For a moderate challenge, hike the 3.1-mile Lily Mountain Trail. Looking to perfect your swing? Go to the Estill County Golf Club, where you’ll find a pristine nine-hole course that suits golfers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie looking for a fun afternoon on the links, this golf course and its striking views of the countryside are sure to deliver.
Local History
If you’re passionate about history or tracing your ancestry, you could easily spend a few hours at the Estill County Historical & Genealogical Society and Museum. Sort through the extensive collection of local history and genealogy resources to uncover your roots and learn about the county’s storied past. Be sure to check out the Fitchburg Furnace, a celebration of Kentucky’s iron heritage. Built in 1869, the 60-foot structure is the world’s largest charcoal iron furnace and is considered one of the most impressive dry masonry projects.
Keep your history tour going with a visit to The Museum at Kentucky Steam, which is free for the public to explore every Saturday. Journey to the past as you enter the 1914 warehouse that once supported the Louisville and Nashville Railroad. Discover historical artifacts from the legendary railroad that helped shape the town of Ravenna, from vintage photographs and blueprints to kerosene lanterns used by the workers.
Official Trails
Take a driving tour down the Estill County Quilt Trail for a unique journey through history and art. The Quilt Trail began in Ohio more than twenty years ago but quickly spread to states like Tennessee and Kentucky. Now, it’s an offbeat destination for tourists looking to discover the rich culture hiding along rural highways and back roads. Here in Estill County, you can admire nearly 50 colorful quilt installations on various buildings that celebrate Appalachian heritage, women, and the area’s historic tobacco barns.
For a taste of Kentucky’s untamed spirit, head to the Kentucky Mountain Moonshine Distillery along the Moonshine Trail. The trail celebrates the time-honored tradition of moonshining in the Bluegrass State, with stops from Lexington to Pikeville. Stamp your Moonshine Trail passport at this Ravenna distillery to learn about the moonshine-making process and sample fan favorites like apple pie, peach, and cranberry moonshine.
Events For All Seasons
Kick off the fall season with the Ravenna Railroad Festival, a celebration of the industry that allowed this small town to thrive. This family-friendly event features a mini-parade where children decorate bikes and wagons for a spirited march through town. Shop the arts and crafts booths, taste delicious local cuisine, and enjoy a fun-filled train ride. Be sure to check out the railroad exhibits honoring the railroad workers who built the town of Ravenna.
There’s nothing quite like celebrating the holidays in a small town. In December, you won’t want to miss the Irvine-Ravenna Kiwanis Christmas Parade. Watch as brightly lit floats, festive music, and local groups fill downtown Irvine with holiday cheer. Keep an eye out for Santa and Mrs. Clause, who regularly appear throughout the event.
Looking for holiday gifts with local flair? There’s no better place to shop than the annual Yuletide Arts & Craft Show. For over 20 years, this beloved event has featured an array of handcrafted gifts made by talented artisans, including ornaments, artwork, wreaths, and festive apparel. Support local businesses while enjoying live music, food concessions, and a silent auction.
Visit in the spring for Estill County’s biggest event, the Mountain Mushroom Festival, a free celebration of Appalachian culture. Explore vendor booths with handmade pottery and jewelry, a car show, student art exhibits, and exciting contests like cake decorating, foraging, and mushroom cooking. Take part in the 5K run, watch a parade of mushroom-themed floats, snap a picture with the official mascot, Morey Morel, and savor delicious food from BBQ to funnel cakes. With bounce houses, train rides, and kid-friendly games, there’s something for everyone.
As part of the Mountain Mushroom Festival, the Agate Hunt & Gem Show is a must-see. Estill County is one of the few places in the world where you can find Kentucky Agate, the vibrant state rock. Check out the gem show to see a dazzling array of agates in all forms, from jewelry to raw slabs. Shop for fossils, gems, and petrified wood, then watch skilled craftsmen perform demonstrations of carving, wire wrapping, and silversmithing. Feeling adventurous? Join a guided agate hunt to see if you can find the prized red and black agate.
Estill County’s buzzing music scene peaks in the summer months with community-driven events like Pickin’ in the Park. Each week from May to August, join the locals at Rising Park for a free concert by talented local artists in a relaxed outdoor setting. For a larger festival experience, don’t miss Kickin’ It on the Creek. This laid-back, 21+ event features a stellar lineup of regional and national artists like Tyler Childers. Bring a cooler and your favorite yard games, and get ready to dance the night away with new friends.
For a sun-soaked adventure on the Kentucky River, hit up Weekend on the Water. Enjoy a lazy float down the river or join a thrilling kayak race. On land, find activities like food trucks, live music, and games. The good times don’t stop when the sun goes down. Discover the best of Estill County at the Moonlight Market, an evening street fair held on the first Friday of each month from May to September. Stroll through booths selling hand-crafted goods by local artisans, take in live music, and get to know the local businesses that give the area its charm.
Stay Overnight in Charming Accommodations
Check into Snug Hollow Farm Bed & Breakfast for a tranquil retreat on an organic farm that’s been praised in magazines like National Geographic and Southern Living. Indulge in garden-to-table meals, cozy up in a log cabin or farmhouse, and take in the beauty of Red Lick Valley. With 350 acres of creeks, wildflower fields, and wooded mountainsides, it’s the perfect place to disconnect and embrace the stillness of nature.
For an even more secluded escape, book a stay at the Cottage on the Hill at Harmony Hollow. Just ten minutes from downtown Irvine but hidden deep in the woods, you’ll feel like you’re worlds away from the bustling city. Go rock hunting in the creek or foraging for mushrooms in the hills, watch the horses graze, and enjoy the view from the fish pond. The one-bedroom cottage features two beds, a full kitchen, a wraparound porch, and a library with an extensive book collection.
