Join us in the Heart of Appalachia
For the past 50 years, Pine Mountain Settlement School has opened our campus to numerous groups to immerse folks in authentic Appalachian Experiences. Our participants have marveled at our natural wonders on our nearly 10 miles of hiking trails, created family heirlooms in our traditional creative spaces, and understood their interconnectivity to the world around them. Pine Mountain Settlement School is not only a place to learn, but a place to disconnect from the bustle of life and reconnect with yourself, your friends, and to a world that is always at your fingertips. We are now booking bus tours to Experience Appalachia for the Fall of 2026.
What A Trip to Pine Mountain Looks Like
We offer a variety of trip options, including a 2-night/3-day, 3-night/4-day, and 4-night/5 day stays. Each option includes up to 4 activities per day, including Traditional Crafts (block printing, needle felting, weaving, quilting, woodworking, blacksmithing, stained glass, basketmaking, etc ), Guided Hikes / Mindfulness Journey (Split Rock, Green Brier Cave, the Summit Trail, Wintergreen), Appalachian Foodways, Plants and Potions, and excursions to local shops in downtown Harlan and Cumberland, Kentucky. We understand that adults enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere and the schedule allows for down time to enjoy our beautiful campus in ways that they find most meaningful.
Outside our set schedules, we can tailor a trip to the needs of your group!
Where do we stay?
We offer on campus lodging in our historic dorm, cabins, and cottages.
Westwind, our last dorm built, finished in 1940 offers guest an experience to stay in modest accommodations with 2-3 twin bunk beds per room and both a male and female bathroom on each floor. Westwind has 21 bedrooms and can accommodate up to 45 guests.
Far House, our newest structure redesigned in the 1990s, offers the amenities of a modern log cabin, featuring 5 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and space for nine guest, and a full kitchen.
Hill House, once the school’s infirmary, the historic structure is full of authentic charm, with 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a full kitchen and accommodations for up to 10 individuals.
Laurel House, the main structure on campus offers two lodging options, a two bed, one bath suite and a four bed, one bath suite.
Maximum Occupancy
Though our campus can accommodate large groups, we prefer a more intimate experience so that our guest can get the one-on-one attention they deserve. We suggest that not exceed 50 guests.
Meals
Our executive chef Ashley Bledsoe curates a memorable menu that features locally procured produce and proteins and offers an elevated Appalachian flare. We can accommodate all food allergies and tailor our menu so that everyone can enjoy the flavors of the region.
On Your Own Time
Even though our schedule is full of activities for our guests, we want our folks to truly relax and enjoy our beautiful campus. We have a variety of activities that will make a delightful stay for all activity levels.
Campus Hiking Trails – We offer nearly 10 miles of hiking trails that can be utilized at the leisure of our guests. Several will be offered in the guided hike series, but our guests find wonderful ways to disconnect and reconnect under our tall oaks, amongst our boulders, and beside our mountain streams.
Coffee Shop – Our coffee shop is open each guest day, serving delicious lattes, cold brews, frappes, and more, with an outstanding selection of fresh-from-the-kitchen pastries. Enjoy a delicious snack, play board games, solve puzzles, or just relax in our cozy space.
The Pine and Petal Mercantile – Our gift shop is filled to the brim with unique gifts, Pine Mountain swag, and a taste of authentic Appalachia.
Hammocks, Adirondacks, and More – Our campus has many nooks and crannies to disappear into while enjoying the beauty and serenity of the mountain. Read a book at the fire pit, grab a hammock for a nap by the creek, or sit on the hill and just enjoy the view.
Costs
Trip Length
Cost
2 Night – 3 Day – Includes lodging, 6 meals, 8 programs $400 per person
3 Night – 4 Day – Includes lodging, 9 meals, 12 programs $500 per person
4 Night – 5 Day – Includes lodging, 12 meals, 16 programs $600 per person
