Visiting Natural Bridge State Park and Red River Gorge
Why Visit Kentucky
Kentucky is well known for its rolling hills, horse racing, bourbon and country music. This Bluegrass state has rich roots, natural beauty, and hospitality. Home of Mammoth Caves and Red River Gorge, Kentucky is an ideal place to relax in nature and it provides ample outdoor activities for adventurous souls.
Natural Bridge State Park & Red River Gorge
Travel to the Eastern side of the state to Slade, Kentucky to Daniel Boone National Forest, only an hour from Lexington. Here you will find a true gem, Natural Bridge State Park, known for its sandstone arches.
Waterfalls in Kentucky
The scenery begs to be explored and there is no one way to view this gorgeous landscape. One of our favorite ways is to lace up those hiking boots and explore the many hiking trails in the area.
Scenic hiking awaits at Natural Bridge State Park, especially in the spring, summer and fall, with a variety of terrain and numerous cliffs and gorges. Some great trails include Natural Bridge, Rock Garden Trail, and Fat Man Squeeze.
Natural Bridge State Park Suspension Bridge
Instead of hiking, another way to see the stunning views of the Natural Bridge is to take the sky lift, available April-October.
Paddle the Red River where beautiful scenery and wildlife can be seen along the rugged Kentucky wilderness. Kayak rentals are available at Red River Adventure. Want a slower pace, head to Mill Creek Lake with your fishing poles for some great fishing.
Next to Natural Bridge State Park, impressive sand stone cliffs at Red River Gorge are the perfect place to give rock climbing a try. If you’re feeling daring, both Torrent Falls Climbing Adventure and Kentucky Rock and Adventure Guides offer guided rock climbing and rappelling classes. No prior experience needed.
Looking for more activities while visiting this beautiful area. Here are 12 Things to Do in Red River Gorge, Kentucky, which highlights tons of outdoor adventures from horseback riding and hoedowns to animal parks to visit.
With so many adventures awaiting, booking your next vacation just got easier. With rustic cabins, condos, and hotels nearby, you’re sure to find the perfect place for your next trip.
Accommodations/ Camping
Peaceful Palace A cozy rustic cabin with a treetop deck and hot tub. Two bedroom, two bath. We stayed in this cabin in the fall in early November. Due to the rainy weather there were several waterfalls created in the trails nearby, we could even see one from the deck of our cabin. It was quite an adventure to reach the cabin due to the steep elevation changes on the way to the cabin. A 4 wheel drive vehicle is recommended, especially during wet seasons.
Natural Bridge State Park Resort A family friendly campground with a lodge and cabin rentals.
A staple for food is Miguel’s Pizza, a popular pizza place for climbers and hikers. An eclectic vibe and delicious pizza can be enjoyed by everyone.
Closing Thoughts
Well that wraps up our experience exploring Natura Bridge State Park and Red River Gorge. This destination is a perfect one to experience the beauty of fall’s changing leaf color. Or in the warmer months it makes a great destination to visit for hiking, rafting and rock climbing. This beautiful area is chocked full of outdoor adventures to embrace each season. Whether you’re spending a couple days or a week, you’ll easily fill your time with these unforgettable experiences if you make this location the spot for your next family trip.
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