10 Hikes in Red River Gorge Kentucky That You Need to Do
Red River Gorge in Kentucky’s Daniel Boone National Forest is a hiker’s paradise!
With its natural arches, sandstone cliffs, and scenic views, there’s no shortage of incredible trails to explore.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or just a day, these hikes in Red River Gorge are ones you don’t want to miss.
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10 Hikes in Red River Gorge
1. Double Arch Trail
The Double Arch Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Red River Gorge, and for good reason!
This trail takes you through a forested path with beautiful views of sandstone cliffs.
The highlight is the Double Arch itself, which offers an amazing view point over the gorge and the trees.
We hiked this trail in July and loved it, but I imagine it would be even more stunning in the fall with all of the beautiful fall foliage.
Trailhead Location: The trail starts at the Auxier Ridge Trailhead. Parking is free.
Trail Conditions: The trail is easy to follow and mostly dirt, but there are some rocky sections. Be careful if you’re hiking after heavy rain as the trail can get muddy.
Tip: The viewpoint at Double Arch is incredible for sunset photos. Be sure to pack a headlamp if you plan to stay for sunset.
2. Rock Bridge Trail
If you’re looking for a short and easy hike, the Rock Bridge Trail is the perfect hike for you!
It is family-friendly and leads you to one of the few natural bridges in the gorge that goes over the water.
The rock formations you will see on this trail are super unique, and the trail itself is shaded allowing for some relief from the sun.
You will come across a waterfall on the path too!
Trailhead Location: You can park at the Rock Bridge Trailhead parking lot. It is free, and I would arrive early to ensure you get a spot as it gets crowded.
Trail Conditions: This trail is mostly shaded with a mix of dirt and rocky terrain.
Tip: Go counterclockwise to make it easier since you will avoid going up all of the stairs.
3. Gray’s Arch Trail
Gray’s Arch Trail is another must-do hike in Red River Gorge.
The hike is relatively easy and brings you to one of the largest natural arches in Red River Gorge.
The arch is massive and feels even more impressive when you’re standing underneath it.
Keep in mind that once you get to the arch there are a lot of stairs, making it more challenging.
Trailhead Location: Park at the Gray’s Arch Recreation Area, located off Tunnel Ridge Road.
Trail Conditions: The trail is mostly dirt with a gradual incline and stairs leading to the arch.
Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds.
4. Natural Bridge and Laurel Ridge Trail Loop
This is another hike we did during our weekend in Red River Gorge, and it was the perfect way to end our trip!
The Natural Bridge and Laurel Ridge Trail Loop is a popular hike for its views and unique rock formations.
This loop includes the iconic Natural Bridge, which you can walk across to take in the incredible scenery.
This hike was one of the more crowded ones we did during our trip so do keep that in mind.
Trailhead Location: Parking is available at the Natural Bridge Laurel Ridge Trailhead.
Trail Conditions: This trail is well-maintained but steep in sections with stairs.
Tip: Take the Sky Lift to the top if you’re short on time or energy, then hike down the trail.
5. Double Arch, Courthouse Rock, and Auxier Ridge Loop
This loop combines three amazing sights into one hike.
You’ll start with Double Arch, continue to Courthouse Rock, and then hike along Auxier Ridge.
The ridge offers some of the best panoramic views in Red River Gorge.
It’s a longer hike, but the variety of scenery makes it well worth the effort.
Trailhead Location: Start at the Auxier Ridge Trailhead. Parking is limited, so arrive early.
Trail Conditions: This trail has rocky sections and narrow ridges. It’s well-marked, but be sure to use the offline map on All Trails to keep you on the right trail.
Tip: Bring plenty of water. There’s little shade along Auxier Ridge, and it can get hot in the summer.
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6. Sky Bridge Trail
If you’re looking for a quick and easy hike, Sky Bridge Trail is a great choice.
This short loop takes you to a natural bridge with gorgeous views of the surrounding forest.
It’s an easy trail that’s perfect for beginners or families with kids.
Trailhead Location: Park at the Sky Bridge Picnic Area Parking Lot.
Trail Conditions: This trail is easy to navigate and mostly flat, but there are quite a few steps to climb.
7. Pinch-em Tight to Hanson’s Point
Hanson’s Point is one of the best viewpoints in Red River Gorge, and this trail takes you right to it.
The route is moderately challenging, with some elevation gain, but the views from the top are absolutely worth it.
It’s a lesser-known spot, so you’re likely to find fewer crowds here.
The trail does get very narrow towards the end.
Trailhead Location: Park along Tunnel Ridge Road.
Tip: Download the offline map so you can navigate the trail without cell service. There are a lot of different trail paths along the way so it could be easy to take a wrong turn.
8. Chimney Top Trail
Chimney Top Trail is a super short hike with a big payoff!
The trail ends at a stunning overlook with views of the gorge below.
It’s one of the easiest trails on this list, making it a great option if you’re looking for a short and scenic hike.
Trailhead Location: You can park at the Pinch-Em-Tight Trail Head.
Trail Conditions: This trail is short and easy, with a well-maintained path.
9. Courthouse Rock Loop
This loop trail takes you past Courthouse Rock, a unique rock formation that’s one of the most photographed spots in the gorge.
The hike is moderate in difficulty and offers plenty of scenic views along the way.
It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a hike that’s a little longer but not too challenging.
Trailhead Location: Start at the Auxier Ridge Trailhead. The parking lot is shared with several other trails, so arrive early to make sure you get a spot.
Trail Conditions: The loop includes narrow ridges and rocky paths.
10. Creation Falls via Rock Bridge Trail
Creation Falls is a small but beautiful waterfall that you can reach via the Rock Bridge Trail.
This short hike is easy and family-friendly, making it perfect for a relaxing walk.
Trailhead Location: Park at the Rock Bridge Hike Trail Head.
Trail Conditions: The trail is easy to navigate, with a mix of dirt and rocky sections.
Tip: Visit after a rainfall for the best view of Creation Falls since the flow is much stronger.
Packing List for Hiking in Red River Gorge
Conclusion
If you’re planning a trip to Red River Gorge, make sure to add these hikes to your itinerary.
Whether you’re looking for easy trails or more challenging hikes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
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