Explore Breaks Interstate Park

Breaks Interstate Park lies on the border of western Virginia and eastern Kentucky, and is known as the “Grand Canyon of the South”. This park surrounds a 5-mile long gorge created by the Russell Fork River, which lies 1650 feet below the park.

Once you enter the park, stop at the first overlook on the left called the “Towers Overlook”. There is a short 0.15 mile path to a beautiful overlook of a bend of the Russell Fork River. After you stop at the overlook, continue driving on the park road until you reach the Clinchfield Overlook on the left.

Park at the Clinchfield Overlook lot, and take the Overlook Trail to the right of the parking area. Follow this trail along the ridge for 0.75 miles until you reach the Stateline Overlook, which has great views of the Virginia/Kentucky border. To the right of the platform a set of stairs descends into the woods-take this trail. This 0.35 mile trail (the Geologic Trail) passes a lot of interesting sandstone outcroppings. Turn right at the intersection with the Laurel Branch trail. Shortly after that, turn right again on the Notches Trail and follow this 0.5 mile trail back to the Stateline Overlook.

From the Stateline Overlook, take the Overlook Trail the 0.75 miles back to your car for a complete circuit of 2.4 miles. For a helpful trail map or ideas for other hikes to do in the park click here: Breaks Park Map.