Hike to Rainbow Point in Red River Gorge

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

Trailhead elevation 1,289'

Water none

Don't miss sunset and backcountry camping

Hike to Rainbow Point

The hike begins at the Tunnel Ridge Road Trailhead parking area, which can accommodate dozens of vehicles but typically fills up by late morning. From the parking lot, walk back along Tunnel Ridge Road and find the Double Arch Trail #210 at the turnaround, about 0.15 miles from the main parking area. If unsure, look for the trailhead with a gate at its entrance, as multiple trails branch off in this area.

The majority of the hike follows a wide, gently rolling dirt and gravel service road with limited views.

Around the 0.65-mile point, the trail passes a side path leading to two of Red River Gorge's impressive geological formations, Star Gap Arch and Skyview Arch. Those interested in a longer hike may want to explore these before continuing to Rainbow Point. At 1.4 miles, the service road ends, and hikers will see a "Dangerous Cliffs" sign.

To continue, follow the dirt path immediately to the right of the sign. Soon after, views of Auxier Ridge—a popular spot in the gorge—appear through windows in the trees on the right.

As the trail nears its destination, a great view of Rainbow Point appears along the left side of the trail.

At 1.65 miles, the trail reaches the west-facing Rainbow Point, where hikers are treated to views of towering cliffs to the south. Many of the cliffs have sheer drops exceeding 100 feet, so caution is recommended while exploring.

About an hour before sunset, the evening light casts a warm glow on the cliff tops, offering a fantastic view.

Rainbow Point, similar to Hanson’s Point a few miles away as a crow flies, offers incredible sunset views for those who stay to enjoy the evening or camp overnight. At Rainbow Point, backpackers will find space near the cliffs for two tents, with room for two smaller tents a few hundred feet above, and a larger campsite located a few hundred yards back along the trail.

All campsites are dry, so anyone staying overnight should bring enough water. Note that there’s a spur trail leading to another overlook near the "Dangerous Cliffs" sign, but it doesn’t compare to the views at Rainbow Point.