Black Mountain

This route starts at a small parking area on KY-160, right at the Kentucky-Virginia state line, and ends 1.7 miles later at the summit of Black Mountain (4,145'), the highest point in Kentucky. From the parking area, pass around the gate and follow the old road — a mix of gravel and broken asphalt — as it climbs steadily along the ridge. The road passes an FAA en route radar dome partway up. Just beyond the radar site, a one-lane dirt spur breaks off to the left; follow it to the true summit, marked by an abandoned metal fire lookout tower and surrounded by radio towers and transmitter buildings. Return the way you came. The road sees occasional maintenance traffic, so stay alert for vehicles.