Sign in to generate an AI timing estimate for this run.
Whitewater timing varies with scouting, portages, and group pace. Use as a planning baseline.
Description
The scenic beauty of Harlan County and the cool fresh water beats anything. Whitewater paddling here in the Cumberland Plateau Mountains is a great experience. The Poor Fork snakes through the valley of Pine and Black mountains. This section of the Cumberland offers many scenic vistas and natural beauties. A diversity of wildlife is also apparent along the trip, from Great Blue Herons to turtles soaking up rays on a riverside log. You are bound to experience something new along this stretch of river. Make sure to bring your camera a binoculars. This river is for every skill level, only occasional shoals and small rapids dot your journey on this scenic trip. Also the Poor Fork boasts great smallmouth bass fishing, among many other species, so don't forget you fishing gear.
There are a couple of hotels in Harlan if you want to spend a night. Also the Harlan County Campground Is conveniently located about halfway through the run. If you make reservations in advance you're all set. If you hurry you can run this stretch in a day, but why not make it an overnighter, so go ahead and pack your camp stove.
Getting a good workout and a chance to spend some time outdoors will have you coming back for more. There are not many better stretches to paddle along the Poor Fork than the Cumberland to Harlan stretch.
For more information, see Canoeing & Kayaking Guide to KY