Visit the
Overlook
Soak in breathtaking views of Pikeville’s most astonishing landmark.
Perched atop Bob Amos Drive in Pikeville, Kentucky, the Pikeville Cut-Through Overlook is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of scenic beauty, outdoor adventure, and engineering wonder. From this elevated viewpoint, visitors can witness firsthand what The New York Times once hailed as the “eighth wonder of the world.”
The Overlook offers sweeping views of the Pikeville Cut-Through—a massive civil engineering project that reshaped the region and transformed the city below. Stretching 3,700 feet long, 1,300 feet wide, and 523 feet deep, the Cut-Through rerouted the Levisa Fork of the Big Sandy River, relocated highways and railroads, and created nearly 400 acres of flat, developable land in downtown Pikeville. Second in scale only to the Panama Canal among earth-moving projects in the Western Hemisphere, this remarkable feat of engineering was completed in 1987 after 14 years of construction.
More than just a scenic overlook, the area is surrounded by the lush expanse of Bob Amos Park. Visitors can enjoy walking tracks, hiking trails, picnic shelters, sports courts, and playgrounds—making it a perfect stop for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. Whether you're coming for a quiet picnic or a full day of exploration, the Overlook provides a peaceful, elevated perspective of both nature and human achievement.
Informational plaques at the site share details about the Cut-Through's history, its design, and the vision of former Mayor William C. Hambley—the man credited with leading the city through this transformative project. At dusk, the view becomes especially magical as Pikeville’s city lights begin to glow across the valley below, reflected in the winding river.
Located just minutes from downtown, the Pikeville Cut-Through Overlook is easily accessible by car and offers free parking. It’s a favorite spot for photographers, casual visitors, and tour groups alike—and it’s a place where Pikeville’s past, present, and future can all be seen in a single panoramic view.
Whether you’re marveling at the scale of the project, enjoying the fresh mountain air, or simply pausing to take in the view, the Overlook stands as a reminder of what’s possible when vision meets determination—and a whole lot of dynamite.
