Red River Gorge is known for rock climbing, but did you know it also has amazing hiking trails?
There are lots of trails for every skill level, with cool sights like natural arches, swimming spots, and waterfalls. The best times to hike here are in the spring when flowers are blooming, and in the fall, when the leaves change color.
From stunning arches to beautiful views, these seven trails in Red River Gorge are must-hikes for your adventure list!
1. Double Arch Trail
- Length: 4.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Day-use fee: None
- Pets: On-leash
Double Arch is located in The Windows Section, often called the heart of Arches National Park. This area has a lot of arches and is one of the most beautiful spots in the park. In just two square miles, you can see amazing formations like the North Window, Turret Arch, and Double Arch. Other cool sights in this area include the Garden of Eden, Elephant Butte, and Parade of Elephants.
2. Rock Bridge Trail
- Length: 1.5-mile loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Day-use fee: None
- Pets: On-leash
Rock Bridge Trail is a paved loop that takes you down into a deep ravine filled with tall hemlock trees and thick rhododendron bushes. It’s located in the Red River Gorge, part of the Daniel Boone National Forest.
Hikers love the peaceful atmosphere near Rock Bridge, a natural sandstone arch that crosses over a creek. This is the only “bridge” in the Red River Gorge that goes over water. Upstream, there’s a small waterfall that makes a perfect spot to relax and enjoy nature.
3. Angel’s Windows Trail
- Length: 0.5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Day-use fee: None
- Pets: On-leash
Angel Windows Trail starts at the Parched Corn Overlook on KY 715. The trail takes you along a wooded ridge that leads under a tall cliff to Angel Windows, which are two small arches side by side at the end of the cliff. As you hike, you’ll pass several overhangs and follow the ledge.
The trail officially ends here, offering beautiful views of the cliffs. Be careful of the drop-off to the right when you pass Angel Windows and explore the area. This trail is located in the Red River Gorge in the Daniel Boone National Forest.
4. Gray’s Arch Trail
- Length: 4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Day-use fee: None
- Pets: On-leash
Grays Arch Trail starts at the Grays Arch Picnic Area on Tunnel Ridge Road. After about a quarter-mile, the trail connects with Rough Trail #221, leading down a ridge and into a stream area called King Branch. From there, the trail splits off and continues to Grays Arch.
When it’s rainy, you can see a beautiful waterfall on the arch. This trail is located in the Red River Gorge in the Daniel Boone National Forest.
5. Jump Rock
- Length: 2 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Day-use fee: None
- Pets: On-leash
Jump Rock is a popular spot in the Red River Gorge where hikers and swimmers love to visit. It’s known for its high rock ledge that adventurous people can jump off into the deep pool of water below.
The spot is surrounded by beautiful forest scenery, making it a great place to cool off and enjoy nature. Just make sure to be cautious and check the water depth before jumping to stay safe!
6. Sky Bridge Trail
- Length: 0.8 miles loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Day-use fee: None
- Pets: On-leash
Sky Bridge Trail is a semi-paved loop that starts at the Sky Bridge parking area and follows a high, narrow ridge to Sky Bridge and several scenic overlooks. The trail goes over and under Sky Bridge, then climbs 75 steps back to the parking lot. The highlights are the amazing views of Red River Gorge and the natural sandstone arch called Sky Bridge.
While the bridge is wide, there are no guardrails, so be careful. Keep a close eye on children and make sure pets are on a leash when crossing. This trail is located in the Red River Gorge in the Daniel Boone National Forest.
7. Devil’s Gulch
- Length: 1-mile loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Day-use fee: None
- Pets: On-leash
Devil’s Gulch is a tough race with three distance options: a half-marathon, 50 miler, and 100 miler. It was originally created by Jessie McClurg of Banshee Running, and Evergreen Trail Runs is proud to carry on her tradition.
This race is different from most—it features hot, dry desert terrain, steep gulches, and towering rock formations called hoodoos! After the race, there’s even a restaurant for some well-deserved food. The 100 miler is a real challenge, with lots of elevation and heat. The 50 miler is also tough but half as long. And for those who prefer a more manageable distance, there’s a half-marathon too!
