Osborne Bend Loop

Overview. This is a nice, quiet half-day hike that takes you on a loop inside Clifty Wilderness. This is a hike to take when you want some peace and solitude, as it's lightly trafficked. Near the end of the loop, take some time to see a small waterfall and tool around Salt Branch.

Route Type:  Loop
Total Distance:  9.25 miles
Overall Difficulty:  Moderate
USDA Forest Service Trail Map
USDA Forest Service Map of Red River Gorge Area

Trailhead. Parking is available at the east end of Osborne Bend Trail on the north side of KY-715. [map]

Trail navigation. Head north out of the parking lot and immediately begin ascending out of Red River Gorge into Clifty Wilderness. Continue on the trail looping around, making sure to stay on trail indicated by the white blazes. This will loop around and eventually intersect with Lost Branch Trail. Continue straight through that junction and begin descending at approximately mile 6. On your right will be Salt Branch with a small waterfall that you'll hear before you see. Feel free to scramble down to get a better view of the waterfall and continue back onto Osborne Bend Trail. Once near KY-715, you can scramble down to Salt Branch and play around the boulders just west of a concrete shed of sorts. When you come to KY-715, turn left (east) to finish the loop.

Map of Osborne Bend Loop

Elevation profile of Osborne Bend Loop