Discover the Grand Canyon of the South

Breaks Interstate Park, straddling the Virginia-Kentucky border in the Appalachian Mountains, offers visitors a remarkable natural landscape unlike any other in the region. Often called the “Grand Canyon of the South,” this park features an immense canyon carved by the Russell Fork River that extends approximately five miles and plunges 1,650 feet deep. The dramatic sandstone cliffs create jaw-dropping overlooks where the Appalachian Plateau opens up in a rugged and pristine display.

The park’s geological history is on full display, showcasing layers of sandstone and shale sculpted by millions of years of water flow and erosion. Lush hardwood forests surround these cliffs, providing vibrant seasonal colors and habitats for wildlife such as elk, peregrine falcons, and eagles. Visitors are frequently mesmerized by the spectacle of bull elk grazing in open fields, adding a rare wildlife viewing opportunity in the area's natural setting.

Operating since 1954, Breaks Interstate Park was designed to preserve this magnificent gorge while offering a variety of outdoor activities for families and nature lovers alike. Besides panoramic views from well-maintained overlooks, the park includes spacious cabins, campgrounds, and trails that accommodate all skill levels. It's an inviting destination for hikers, kayakers on the Russell Fork River, and anyone keen on quiet moments surrounded by Appalachian wilderness. This blend of geological wonder and wildlife sightings, combined with easy accessibility and well-kept amenities, makes Breaks Interstate Park a standout destination in Southwest Virginia.