Kentucky’s geological wonderland
Easy-to-access treasures in the Red River Gorge
WHILE PEOPLE FLOCK to Natural Bridge State Resort Park in Slade to marvel at Kentucky’s most famous arch, many visitors from outside the region may not be aware of treasures right next door in the Red River Gorge Geological Area.
The Gorge, as fans call it, is an international mecca for climbers, hikers and outdoor adventurers, featuring hundreds of arches, along with some of the best trails, overlooks and climbing in the Eastern United States. Because the Gorge is adjacent to the state park, many of its wonders are just a 15- to 30-minute drive away.
It has one of America’s highest concentrations of natural arches, but also offers some easy-to-access treasures to enjoy, including these.
Auxier Ridge/Double Arch Trail
For directions to the parking lot, copy these coordinates into your mapping app: 37.8202°, -83.6810°
For unmatched views, the Auxier Ridge/Double Arch loop is one of the most beautiful hikes in the state.
Located at the end of Tunnel Ridge Road, Auxier Ridge Trail (#204) treats hikers to sweeping vistas. Hiking out and back is 4.2 miles total, and you can see formations like Haystack Rock, Double Arch and Courthouse Rock.
Also starting at the end of Tunnel Ridge Road is the Double Arch Trail (#201). The out-and-back route is about the same distance to the Double Arch as the Auxier Ridge hike. It follows an old U.S. Forest Service road and leads to two arches—sandstone openings formed by erosion, wind, water and time—in one rock formation that gives it its name.
To make the loop, start with either the Double Arch or Auxier Ridge trail—each takes you to the Auxier Branch Trail (#203) that connects the two, taking you into the valley. The full loop—including the spur trail to see Double Arch—back to your car at the Tunnel Ridge parking area is about 6 miles. Sky Bridge Arch
Across the valley from Auxier Ridge, the Double Arch is one of many geologic wonders in the Gorge. Photo: Tim Webb
Parking coordinates: 37.8176723°, -83.5825456°
The Sky Bridge Recreation Area has it all: Devil’s Canyon overlook, the stunning Sky Bridge Arch, a 0.7-mile loop trail (#214), plus restrooms and a picnic area. In 1955, this stunning arch appeared in Burt Lancaster’s film The Kentuckian.
Visitors often follow a paved path to the arch base first, where they discover a second, smaller arch in a rock pillar beneath massive Sky Bridge Arch. Continue walking the loop to walk across the arch top, enjoying views of the Red River before returning to the parking area.
Of the many gems in the Red River Gorge, this spot was the favorite of legendary U.S. Forest Ranger Don Fig.
Rock Bridge Trail/Creation Falls
Parking coordinates: 37.7701°, -83.5670°
Located at the end of Rock Bridge Road (with restrooms and a picnic area), this family-friendly 1.4-mile-loop trail (#207) delivers two treasures. Hiking counterclockwise, you first reach Creation Falls, a slice of Eden with a 12-foot waterfall, a shallow pool below and a sandy beach.
Downstream sits the Rock Bridge, an unbelievable arch spanning Swift Camp Creek. After hiking past Rock Bridge, be alert for a small sign to stay on Rock Bridge Trail. Turn there, ascend the ridge and enjoy the overlook before hiking the final section.
Making the turn to stay on Rock Bridge Trail avoids an accidental long hike along Swift Camp Creek.
For one of the most popular and spectacular views in the Gorge, the trail to Chimney Top Rock is perfect for first-time Gorge explorers. Photo: John May
Chimney Top Rock/Princess Arch
Parking coordinates: 37.824875°, -83.618203°
Towering 400 feet above the Red River, Chimney Top Rock offers unparalleled views.
Reached by driving to the end of the gravel Chimney Top Road, this incredibly accessible overlook is reached via a paved trail (#235) that is 0.6 miles total out and back. It’s perfect for first-time explorers, offering jaw-dropping views of Half Moon Rock, the Red River Valley and Hanson’s Point.
Although the hike to the overlook is short, a visit there demands common sense. This spot ranks as the deadliest site in the Gorge because of daredevils who climb the safety railings to jump on the chimney. Stay behind the barriers, watch children and enjoy the breathtaking view safely.
Be sure to see Princess Arch while there. The Princess Arch Trail (#233) is adjacent to the Chimney Top parking lot, and it’s only .06 miles total out and back to the arch.
Grays Arch
Parking coordinates: 37.8080413°, −83.6574092°
Grays Arch is an awe-inspiring marvel with a picnic area and restrooms at the trailhead. Parking is reached via the gravel Tunnel Ridge Road. The out-and-back hike—2.5 miles total—begins on Grays Arch Trail (#205), turning right onto Rough Trail (#221). Note: there are steep stairs down to get below the arch, which are taxing on the hike back.
By adding a mile more, you can make the visit a loop hike by seeing the arch and continuing on Rough Trail. From there, you turn onto beautiful Rush Ridge Trail (#227) and then go right onto Pinch-Em-Tight Trail (#223) to the parking area.
Seasoned hikers also extend the trek even farther into one of two other longer scenic loops. One covers about 4.5 miles, and the longest loop covers about 8 miles.
Five keys to safe hiking
- Stay on official trails. Incidents occur when people go off-trail or get too close to cliffs.
- Know where you are going. Bring a paper map and/or download the maps before leaving.
- Text someone before hiking and when you come out. Crucial if you get hurt or lost.
- Bring essentials. Water, first-aid, flashlights, matches, food, shelter and extra clothing.
- Charge phones and carry backup power: A charged device is crucial if you need help.
Safe paws, safe trails Protect pets from extreme heat and high cliffs. Keep dogs on a leash to prevent fatal slips off arches and overlooks. Carry extra water, offer dogs frequent drinks and test surfaces—a rock too hot for your hand can also burn paws.
