Things to do nearBreaks Interstate Park

Breaks Interstate Park sits on the Virginia-Kentucky border and protects a five-mile gorge cut by the Russell Fork of the Big Sandy River. The park was established in 1954 as the only interstate park east of the Mississippi jointly managed by two states. That shared stewardship reflects the gorge's character: a place that belongs to no single landscape but draws from the full richness of central Appalachia.

Trails ranging from easy rim walks to steep descents give hikers direct access to overlooks, waterfalls, and the river corridor. The Geological Trail traces exposed rock formations, while the River Trail drops to the Russell Fork itself. Visitors can also book guided hikes to learn about the region's ecology and geology from knowledgeable local naturalists.

Each October, the Russell Fork draws experienced whitewater paddlers for some of the most challenging rapids in the eastern United States. The town of Breaks sits just outside the park entrance, offering a handful of local restaurants and outfitters. The park itself has a lodge, cottages, and a campground perched above the gorge.

Few places in Virginia combine dramatic scenery, accessible trails, and genuine wilderness character as naturally as Breaks Interstate Park, making it a destination that justifies the drive into the mountains.