Ready to break free from cabin fever and spend a weekend doing something unforgettable? Pack up those hiking boots, grab your sense of adventure, and head to Carter Caves State Resort Park — because Winter Adventure Weekend 2026 is back, and it looks bigger and bolder than ever.
From Thursday, January 22 through Sunday, January 25, 2026, the park will transform into a winter wonderland of outdoor fun — and there’s something for everyone, whether you’re an experienced outdoorsperson or just looking to try something new.
Imagine this: you and your family exploring rugged trails through snow-kissed hills, rappelling down rock faces, venturing deep underground into wild caves, or paddling on the quiet lake if weather permits.
For those craving a little thrill, try the “Leap of Faith” — a bold 30-foot swing off a cliff into the trees. Feel like going vertical? There’s guided rock climbing, recreational tree climbing, and technical rappel routes for those who want real challenge.
Prefer something more relaxed? The weekend offers guided hikes, wild and commercial cave tours, and workshops ranging from beginner-level to advanced — perfect for families or outdoor newbies testing the waters.
And the best part: you don’t have to commit to every single day. Want to come for just one trip or one activity? That’s totally fine. The weekend schedule is flexible — drop in for the parts that call to you.
Need a place to stay? Carter Caves has it covered with a 28-room lodge, cottages, and even campground spots if you’d rather sleep under the stars (or under a cozy roof after a day of adventure).
Registration and full trip details are live now at winteradventureweekend.com — but heads up: many trips fill up fast, and slots are limited by gear availability, participant age, or group size.
So if you’ve been cooped up this winter and feeling the itch for something different — something bold, beautiful, and maybe a little bit wild — Winter Adventure Weekend 2026 might just be the cure. Whether you’re rappelling cliffs, hiking cave trails, or just sipping hot coffee by the lodge fireplace after an outdoor adventure, you’ll leave with more than cold toes… you’ll leave with memories that warm your heart all year long.
Head over to winteradventureweekend.com to register or call (606) 286-4411 for more info. Grab a spot while you still can — adventure awaits!
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Today is the day that the magic of Christmas heads back to Olive Hill — and this year’s Christmas at the Depot promises to shine brighter than ever.
Set to be held from 6 to 8 p.m. this evening, the free community event turns the Depot area into a winter wonderland, where hundreds of local kids line up each year to meet Santa and take home a special gift — last year, more than 500 children received presents, and the goal is to spread even more smiles this season.
Hosted by Olive Hill Trail Town and Cash Express, the event brings neighbors, churches, and volunteers together to make sure every child feels the warmth of the holidays. Donations of toys, coats, scarves, blankets, treats, and hot cocoa are all welcome — and anyone wishing to give can drop toys off directly at Cash Express on Railroad Street.
Organizers are also inviting groups and individuals to set up booths, hand out goodies, or help decorate — because every little bit of cheer helps make this night unforgettable.
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As the temperatures keep dropping here in Carter County, one local group is stepping up once again to make sure every child stays warm this winter. Fostering Possibilities Boutique is hosting their annual Free Winter Coat Giveaway, and it’s happening next Wednesday, December 17th, at East Carter Middle School.
From 4:30 to 6:00 PM, families can stop by and pick out a warm, cozy coat at absolutely no cost. It’s all first-come, first-served, and supplies are limited — so if your family could use a little extra help this season, make plans to get there early.
This giveaway has become a heartfelt tradition in our community… a simple act of kindness that makes a real difference, especially as the cold sets in. Once again, Fostering Possibilities Boutique is reminding us what hometown compassion looks like — neighbors helping neighbors, making sure every child walks into winter with warmth on their back and a smile on their face.
That’s the Free Winter Coat Giveaway, December 17th at East Carter Middle School, from 4:30 to 6:00 PM.