The Poor Fork of the Cumberland River drains Harlan and Letcher counties in southeastern Kentucky and is the largest of the headwater streams of the North Fork of the Cumberland River.
Flowing swiftly over a bed of rock and gravel, the Poor Fork winds through one of the most deep and intimate mountain valleys in Eastern Kentucky. Human habitation is frequently in evidence along the Poor Fork but does surprisingly little to spoil the incredible beauty of this mountain stream. Trees envelop the stream only intermittently, allowing the paddler frequent panoramic views of the surrounding mountains with their luxurious foliage and exposed rock bluffs. The banks are normally four to eight feet high and gently banked. The river varies in width from 25 to 40 feet and curves leisurely through the valley. Paddling is interesting with continually changing vistas and delightful Class I and II small shoals and rapids.
The Poor Fork is runnable from January through mid April, and occasionally following heavy rains. Access was less than desirable at the time of this writing but will be excellent on the completion of the new U.S. 119 through the valley. Lateral erosion is minimal on the Poor Fork so deadfalls are unusual. The only navigational hazards usually encountered are man made concrete fords that cross the stream from time to time.
Where are you going?
What do you want to do?
