Red River Gorge Geological Area | Kentucky

Located within the vast Daniel Boone National Forest, Kentucky’s Red River Gorge Geological Area boasts towering sandstone cliffs and the largest concentrations of rock arches in the eastern United States. Of the 708,000 acres set aside as the national forest, roughly 42,000 make up the Red River Gorge and encompass much of the area’s unique geology. 

The varied erosion patterns of the surrounding sandstone cliffs contribute to the creation of recessed rock shelters and independently standing arches, of which the area has more than 150. These distinct geological features make for great sightseeing along the Red River Gorge’s 67 miles of trails, some inviting hikers to trek across, under and around the rock formations.

Start by exploring the Rock Bridge Trail, a partially paved 1.5-mile path that takes hikers into a ravine near Rock Bridge Arch, the only one in the gorge that spans water. Another great hike is the 1-mile Sky Bridge Trail, which goes under as well as across Sky Bridge Arch. For an easy hike with a big payoff, walk the half-mile Chimney Top Trail to Chimney Top Rock, a scenic 400-foot overlook with spectacular views of the area. 

Kentucky is also home to the Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail, which runs nearly 300 miles through Daniel Boone National Forest and provides a wealth of opportunities for backpacking trips or more adventurous day hikes.

Among its federal designations, including those as a National Natural Landmark, Red River Gorge is a National Archaeological District. Since 1989, the area has celebrated that fact with a Living Archaeology Weekend each September. The event invites visitors to learn more about Indigenous ways of life through activities and demonstrations such as flint knapping and hide tanning. For more information about destinations within the Red River Gorge Geological Area and Daniel Boone National Forest, visit fs.usda.gov/dbnf.