Best Hikes in Red River Gorge Geological Area, KY

Default image for Grays Arch Loop Trail, a 5.4-mile trail in Stanton, KY (US)

5.4 mi
8.7 km

Moderate Loop

Grays Arch Loop Trail

5.0

Stanton, Kentucky

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Angel Windows Trail, a 0.6-mile trail in Pine Ridge, KY (US)

0.6 mi
1 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Angel Windows Trail

0.0

Pine Ridge, Kentucky

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Hanson's Point Spur Trail, a 1.9-mile trail in Stanton, KY (US)

1.9 mi
3.1 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Hanson's Point Spur Trail

0.0

Stanton, Kentucky

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Chimney Top Rock Trail, a 0.6-mile trail in Pine Ridge, KY (US)

0.6 mi
1 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Chimney Top Rock Trail

0.0

Pine Ridge, Kentucky

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Princess Arch Trail, a 0.7-mile trail in Pine Ridge, KY (US)

0.7 mi
1.1 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Princess Arch Trail

0.0

Pine Ridge, Kentucky

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Whistling Arch Trail, a 0.6-mile trail in Pine Ridge, KY (US)

0.6 mi
1 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Whistling Arch Trail

0.0

Pine Ridge, Kentucky

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Default image for Red River Gorge Campsite Trail, a 0.2-mile trail in Pine Ridge, KY (US)

0.2 mi
0.3 km

Easy Out-and-Back

Red River Gorge Campsite Trail

0.0

Pine Ridge, Kentucky

Created By:

David Miller (Admin)

Key Takeaways

Red River Gorge Geological Area is in Stanton, Kentucky, offering unique geological formations and scenic beauty.

The park is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, rock climbing, camping, and exploring natural arches and sandstone cliffs.

Visitors can expect to find diverse plant and animal life, as well as opportunities for photography and nature observation within the Red River Gorge.

About Red River Gorge Geological Area

Explore the breathtaking Red River Gorge Geological Area in Stanton, Kentucky, a hiker's paradise brimming with natural arches, stunning overlooks, and diverse trails for all skill levels. From the iconic Grays Arch Loop Trail, a challenging 5.4-mile trek showcasing the majestic Grays Arch, to the easier, family-friendly trails like Princess Arch and Chimney Top Rock, the Gorge offers unforgettable adventures. Remember to check for seasonal closures and secure backpacking permits if planning an overnight stay on trails like Grays Arch Loop, and be prepared for varying terrain and potential rock scrambles.

Whether you're seeking panoramic views from Hanson's Point Spur Trail (exercise caution near unfenced cliffs!) or a quick jaunt to the unique Angel Windows rock formations, Red River Gorge has something for everyone. Keep in mind that some trails, like Hanson's Point, may be less maintained and require navigating through dense brush. For shorter, easier hikes, consider Whistling Arch Trail, featuring a small arch within a cliff overhang, or the aptly named Red River Gorge Campsite Trail offering quick access to permitted campsites and scenic overlooks. Don't forget to bring your canine companion along, as many trails, including Princess Arch and Angel Windows, are dog-friendly!