Sand Cave and White Rocks via the Ewing Trail

November 28, 2025

White rocks — Sand Cave and White Rocks via the Ewing Trail

For Thanksgiving I decided to do a hike that has been on my bucket list since I moved here. Unfortunately, due to its difficulty, Teddy had to sit this one out.

According to AllTrails this hike is 8.2 miles but my phone, using the AllTrails app, said it was 9.77 - I'm not sure of the accuracy of either. The trails are actually in Virginia but the Sand Cave is in Kentucky. The first 3+ miles are a steady climb but it gets easier after that. It was also a rather chilly day (30° when I started) and you can see some ice in a few of my pictures. I did pass 2 groups of people on the way up (There were only 2 other cars in the parking area when I arrived and 4 when I left) and headed to the Sand Cave first where, luckily, I had the place to myself for about 10-15 minutes.

It was a really beautiful hike. Challenging, for sure, but the Sand Cave and the views from White Rocks, which was once a beacon for westward-bound settlers, are amazing.

Screenshot of ALLTrails map with completed hike Cool rock formations from inside the sand cave Looking at the waterfall from inside the entrance of the sand cave Looking at the waterfall from inside the entrance of the sand cave Ice on the cave and tree in front of the cave The waterfall at the Sand Cave Looking out from inside the sand cave Waterfall and interior of Sand Cave Amazing view looking down on Wilderness Road from White Rocks - Cumberland Gap View from White Rocks - Cumberland Gap View looking down on Wilderness Road from White Rocks - Cumberland Gap Amazing view looking down on Wilderness Road from White Rocks - Cumberland Gap

Comments

Tina Casey says: “You go girl. Absolutely breath taking!!”

Terry A Bernhardt says: “Wow! Just Wow! The scenery is beautiful and the effort commendable! I’m sorry that Teddy couldn’t come. Back in the day he would have enjoyed this.”

TED: Totally Excellent Dog

Teddy has some weird genetic hair issues going on. He's gone from short hair to long hair to a full mane to no mane, with plenty of iterations in between—and it doesn't depend on the season!

He's always happy to answer any questions too! You can email us at hillary@mybuzzabout.com but I'll respond for him as he hasn't gotten the knack of typing yet. WOOF!

Teddy the dog looking out a car window Close up of Teddy the dog