2023 Yamacraw 20K
The Yamacraw 20K course is arguably the most scenic ‘fun run’ in Kentucky with a net descent paired with beautiful forest scenes, passing by Princess Falls, and going through a pair of mountain laurel tunnels that just happen to be in bloom on race day each year. It’s a must-do event for trail runners in the region and sells out annually.
Devil’s Jump Overlook
This overlook delivers the goods. Situated at a bend in the Big South Fork with a commanding view of Devil’s Jump, we enjoyed some late day sun and clouds with paddlers just below the rapids.
Blue Heron Overlook
This short out and back delivers a beautiful scene high above the Big South Fork. This overlook is nicely developed with a large deck and gazebo built atop the natural rock outcropping. When visiting the Blue Heron area, it’s always worth a quick stop.
Whittleton Arch Out and Back from Pinch 'em Tight Trailhead
This is a beautiful springtime hike to a massive sandstone arch with a rotating variety of wildflowers and a small waterfall along the way. After soaking rains, a waterfall flows over the top of the arch - creating one of the most magical scenes in the Red River Gorge Region.
Gentlemen’s Swimming Hole Out and Back
This is a terrific short hike while visiting the region. Enjoy a seasonal waterfall, sandstone arch, and idyllic swimming hole in the Clear Fork River. I imagine in the dog days of Summer, this is the place to be in Rugby.
Massengale Homestead Loop
This forest walk leads to the historic Massengale Homesite and Spring Box in Rugby State Natural Area. Only the footers of the home remain, but the spring box is in good repair with water continuing to flow. Big South Fork NRRA is across the street to the north and Sheltowee Trace passes through town (see notes below).
Natural Arch East Overlooks Out and Back
An easy walk to some great views that are spectacular at sunrise. At less than a half-mile roundtrip, this is one of the classic short hikes in Kentucky. It’s also a great place to picnic, so pack some charcoal and get the burgers and dogs goin’!
Pachyderm Arch Out and Back
This is a beautiful arch that certainly calls elephants to mind. Though the walk is relatively easy, the class 3 scramble to reach the arch is on steep soil with extremely poor footing. I wouldn’t try this without rope.
Henson’s (Cave) Arch and Whittleton Arch Out and Back from KY-11
This is one of the best Spring hikes in Red River Gorge with plenty of wildflowers lining the trail, a massive arch, and when the weather is right, a waterfall flowing over the top of the arch. Kids love this hike - just be sure to keep them close when you arrive at the arch.
Indian Arch Out and Back from Bison Way Trailhead
Indian Arch is one of my favorite arches in Red River Gorge and is easily accessible on marked and maintained trails using Bison Way and Sheltowee Trace. The arch can be seen from 40 to 50 feet below as you approach, sits directly opposite Indian Staircase on the horseshoe ridge’s south end, and is magnificent when you can recognize the fullness of the arch beyond what cameras can capture.
Buzzards Roost Central Sunset
This is the most easily accessible of the three overlooks off Sky Bridge Picnic Area with a very fine sunset scene around the equinoxes in Spring and Fall. When visiting the region, this is a great, quick sunset location that is rarely busy. This is a small overlook, so it’s best solo or with a small group.
Martin’s Branch (Fork) Overlook Out and Back
This is a quick walk to a nice view of the Martin’s Branch/Fork drainage from just off Rough Trail. This hike is alright alright if you’re camping nearby - there are better views to be had, but not for so little effort.
Martin’s Fork Mid Loop and Overlooks
This is a classic route in Red River Gorge that arguably includes the geological area’s most beautiful arch and overlook at Gray’s Arch and Hanson’s Point, respectively. This hike adds three other overlooks, a playful arch, and a little archaeological history as well. If you’re looking for a nice half-to-full day hike to get to know Red River Gorge, this is a great one.
Sunset at Tarr Ridge East Overlook #3
This was an easy hike to a nice sunset spot under clear skies with unusually warm temps. The overlooks on Tarr Ridge East have varying worth as sunset spots depending on the time of year, but this one was rock solid;-)
Rango Arch Out and Back
This was a random bonus hike thanks to Red River Underground’s latest video being top of mind. I had altered my plans and had some time to kill before sunset, so this arch filled the timeslot beautifully. It’s a difficult scramble with serious consequences if mismanaged, so definitely not for newbs and generally not for solo hiking. Read the details below.
Moonshiners Arch High Route Out and Back
For the best footing and cleanest path, the high route to Moonshiners Arch is the way to go. The low route along the river has some massive downed trees and some slick rocks that can be tricky. Take this route to enjoy the massive limestone arch with a lower injury risk profile.
Martin’s Fork Short Loop and Overlooks
This is the ‘short’ loop from Martin’s Fork that includes Rough Trail’s Stepped Overlooks, Military Wall Overlook, Mid-level Arch, Gray’s Arch, The Veranda, Rush Ridge Overlook, and D Boon Hut. It is an excellent sampler platter and solid introductory hike on official and unofficial trails in Red River Gorge.
Tarr Ridge East Overlooks - Winter Views
This is an excellent - and popular - hike in Red River Gorge that features a total of five well trod overlooks. We visited four of them and skipped the fifth that requires a class 4 scramble with unfamiliar rope (stranger danger). Be sure to read below to determine how many overlooks you might enjoy.
Tarr Ridge West - Winter Views
I thoroughly enjoyed this one! We caught the sun just as it lined up on top of the river and had the bonus of having some climbers topping out as we relaxed. We headed out so they could enjoy their pre-Valentine’s time together;-) If you’re in this part of the Gorge, put this hike toward the top of your list.
Buzzards Roost North, Central, and South
This is a great trio of overlooks with each providing a unique view of Red River Gorge. North looks out over the river, to Hens Nest, and to Sky Bridge; Central has perhaps the best view looking downriver; South is the most iconic of the group with a spicy scramble down Keystone Arch and excellent sunset view. Skip the scramble if you’re not 100% comfortable; solid views are available without it!