Breathitt County, Kentucky is located in the eastern part of the state, bordering seven other counties. It has a population of around 13,000 people and covers an area of 582 square miles. According to sciencedict.com, the county was formed in 1839 from portions of Clay, Floyd, Harlan, and Perry counties.
The county seat is Jackson, which was originally known as Breathitt Courthouse. The city was named after Andrew Jackson and has a population of around 2,000 people. Other towns in Breathitt County include Crockettsville, Quicksand, and Lost Creek.
Breathitt County is known for its lush forests and rolling hills that provide plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking or fishing for trout at nearby lakes. The county also has several historic sites such as the Old Breathitt County Courthouse and the Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery.
The county is also home to several famous people including former Governor Martha Layne Collins who served from 1983 to 1987; country music singer Loretta Lynn; actors Billy Ray Cyrus and Dwight Yoakam; Kentucky Wildcats basketball coach John Calipari; and writer Wendell Berry who wrote “A Place on Earth” about his hometown of Port Royal in Breathitt County.
In addition to its natural beauty and historic sites, Breathitt County offers plenty of attractions for visitors to enjoy such as the annual Mountain Music Festival which takes place each summer in Jackson or the Hatfield-McCoy Trail System which offers miles of trails for ATV riders to explore.
Breathitt County provides something for everyone with its rich history, natural beauty, outdoor activities, and attractions – plus some famous residents. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to get away from it all – this rural county is sure to have something that will make your visit memorable.
Climate and weather in Breathitt County, Kentucky
According to anycountyprivateschools.com, the climate in Breathitt County, Kentucky is generally considered to be humid subtropical. Summers are hot and humid with temperatures often reaching the mid-90s during the day. Winters are mild with temperatures rarely falling below freezing. Spring and autumn are both pleasant seasons with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-70s. Precipitation is abundant throughout the year, with an average of about 47 inches annually. Snowfall is rare in Breathitt County, but does occur on occasion, usually around late December into early January. The area does experience occasional severe weather such as thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flash flooding. These events can occur at any time of year but are most common during the spring months when warm air masses collide with cold fronts moving through the region.
Transportation in Breathitt County, Kentucky
Transportation in Breathitt County, Kentucky is generally limited to private vehicles and public transportation. The county is served by several major highways including Interstates 64 and 75, US Routes 23, 25 and 421, as well as State Route 15. Public transportation options are limited to a few bus routes that run through the county operated by the Mountain Transit Authority. The buses provide access to larger towns in the region such as Hazard and Lexington. Taxicab services are available throughout the county for those who need a ride to their destination. There are several airports located within an hour’s drive of Breathitt County including Blue Grass Airport in Lexington and Tri-Cities Regional Airport in Tennessee. For travelers looking for more remote locations, there are a few small airstrips located within the county limits.
Cities and towns in Breathitt County, Kentucky
Breathitt County, Kentucky is home to several cities and towns, all of which are located in the Appalachian Mountains. The county seat is Jackson, a small city of around 4,000 people. Other towns in the county include Clayhole, Lost Creek, Noble, Sassafras, and Wooton. Each of these towns has a population of less than 1,000 people and offers visitors a chance to experience rural life in the Appalachian Mountains.
According to countryaah.com, the largest city in Breathitt County is Hazard with a population of around 5,300 people. This town is known for its coal mining history and offers visitors numerous attractions such as the Kentucky Coal Mining Museum and the Hazard Perry County Tourist Center. Another popular destination in Breathitt County is Booneville which boasts an impressive historic downtown district with many 19th century buildings still standing today.
The rest of Breathitt County consists mostly of small hamlets and unincorporated communities such as Alva, Carverton, Combs Branch, Cranks Branch, Drip Rock Hollows, Haddix Fork Creek, Haldeman Fork Creek Valley View Heights and Yocum Creek. These areas offer visitors a chance to experience true Appalachian charm with plenty of opportunities for hiking and exploring nature along their many trails.
