Whistling Arch

Rat, Red Belly, and Heather near Whistling Arch in Red River Gorge

Overview. This is one of a handful of great ‘drive-up’ hikes available in Red River Gorge. Whistling Arch is a classic and a short walk past the arch provides a wonderful view of the gorge.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 0.55 miles
Overall Difficulty | Easy
USDA Forest Service Map of Whistling Arch

Trailhead. There is ample parking at the trailhead located off of KY-715, Sky Bridge Road. [map]

Trail navigation. From the parking lot, head north on Whistling Arch Trail that descends a short distance to the arch. Take some time to enjoy the arch, but be sure to continue to the left of the arch to enjoy a nice overlook of the gorge. Keep children close by, as the backside of this trail has steep cliffs.

LOOK! Bear scat!!! While we were enjoying the views behind Whistling Arch, Ratona exclaimed, “Look! Bear scat!” We all went up to check it out - after all, there are black bears in the area, so maybe a bear did feel Nature’s call out here. Upon reaching the pile of poo, it was clear a previous hiker felt the call instead:-) Whoops.

Map of Whistling Arch hike in Red River Gorge

Elevation profile of Whistling Arch hike

Whistling Arch in Red River Gorge

A beautiful vista just past Whistling Arch in Red River Gorge