Harlan County Promotes Adventure Tourism

- The new website, harlancountytrails.com, is part of a broader strategy to position Harlan County as a premier adventure tourism destination. This initiative is led by Brandon Pennington, the Executive Director of the Harlan Tourist and Convention Commission, who has been recognized for transforming the county into a national model for rural revitalization through tourism. - In 2023, tourism generated $38.4 million in tourist spending in Harlan County, which was a $1.1 million increase from the previous year. This economic impact supported 304 jobs and generated $3 million in state and local taxes. - A significant driver of adventure tourism in the county is the Black Mountain Off-Road Adventure Area, which offers over 200 miles of trails across 7,000 acres, making it a top destination for off-road enthusiasts in the United States. - Complementing the outdoor adventures, Harlan County is also developing its cultural and historical attractions. The new Historic Harlan Museum opened in November 2025, and visitors can also take an underground mine tour at Portal 31 to learn about the region's coal mining history. - Future growth in tourism is anticipated from the Boone's Ridge wildlife destination project in the neighboring Bell County, which is expected to open in the spring of 2026 and attract approximately 800,000 visitors annually. - To further boost tourism, a new marketing campaign was launched in August 2025 featuring Harlan County High School basketball standout Trent Noah as a culture, heritage, and tourism ambassador. - A key challenge for the growing tourism industry in Harlan County is the need for more lodging options to encourage overnight stays. Additionally, local businesses have identified weak cell phone coverage and digital communications as significant infrastructure challenges.