A fantastic day hike through a semi-secluded part of Kentucky's Red River Gorge. Featuring the stunning Star Gap Arch and the elusive Skyline Arch—one of the area's more unique and hard-to-find formations—the trail draws fewer visitors than nearby hikes and is a great option for those looking to escape the crowds. Trail Info Length 5 miles Elevation gain 510 feet Route Out & back Permit required no Dogs allowed on leash Trailhead elevation 1,292' Water none Don't miss the spu

This is an easy day hike that also makes for a fantastic short overnight backpacking trip, with beautiful cliff views, incredible sunset opportunities, and good backcountry camping options. While less popular and less trafficked than other nearby trails, a hike to Rainbow Point—especially at sunset—is a wonderful way to spend a few hours in Kentucky's Red River Gorge. Trail Info Length 3.3 miles Elevation gain 230 feet Route Out & back Permit required no Dogs allowed on leash

An incredible overnight backpacking loop in Red River Gorge offering near 360-degree panoramas from Hanson's Point, arguably the area's most scenic cliffside overlook, and an opportunity to explore the gorge's largest naturally formed arch. Trail Info Length 7.3 miles Elevation gain 1,200 feet Route Loop Permit required no Dogs allowed on leash Trailhead elevation 1,289' Water King Branch Don't miss sunrise and/or sunset at Hanson's Point Backpack to Hanson's Point & Gray's A

One of the more underrated, yet incredibly scenic naturally formed arches in Red River Gorge, Cherokee Arch is one to put on your radar for your next trip to the area. Spanning more than 40 feet in length and soaring more than 60 feet above the forest floor, the arch, along with its picturesque surroundings, offers one of the most beautiful scenes in the entire gorge. Trail Info Length 2.1 miles Elevation gain 330 feet Route Out & back Permit required no Dogs allowed on leas

One of the premier day hikes in Kentucky's Red River Gorge, the hike to Hopewell Arch, Snow Arch, Double Deer Arch, and Copperas Falls is nothing short of spectacular. Technically an unofficial trail in Clifty Wilderness, the mostly well-traveled path largely meanders alongside beautiful Copperas Creek, ensconced by lush rhododendron and hardwood forest, culminating at the striking 40-foot Copperas Falls and its alluring bluish-green plunge pool. Along the route, the trail cr

An adventurous day hike offering sweeping vista views, beautiful forest scenery, and a chance to ascend one of Red River Gorge's most famous rock formations. Trail Info Length 3 miles Elevation gain 700 feet Route Loop Permit required no Dogs allowed on leash but not recommended Trailhead elevation 750' Water two intermittent streams at 0.5 and 0.7 miles Don't miss the view near Adena Arch Hiking the Indian Staircase & Adena Arch Loop The trickiest part of hiking Indian Stair

An off the beaten path day hike offering loads of solitude and views of one of the most underrated natural arches in Red River Gorge & Clifty Wilderness. The entire hike, including the trailhead, is unmarked, but easy to follow. If you're looking for a trail in the gorge to have to yourself, Red Byrd Arch is definitely one to consider. Trail Info Length 4.6 miles Elevation gain 500 feet Route Out & back Permit required no Dogs allowed on leash Trailhead elevation 1,148' Water

In the heart of Kentucky's Daniel Boone National Forest lies a 400-million year-old canyon system known as Red River Gorge Geological Area. Spanning 29,000 acres, this National Natural Landmark features over 150 naturally sculpted sandstone arches, ranking second globally in arch concentration behind Arches National Park. With 70+ miles of scenic hiking trails, picturesque waterfalls, extensive sandstone cliffs, and abundant backcountry camping spots, Red River Gorge stands a