We were out to see wildflowers, and this trail is among the best at providing just that. As warmth returns, but before the forest canopy fills in, wildflowers can be found throughout the area. Whittleton Branch, however, seems to get more than its fair share - and that was all good:-)
Read MoreOn this weekend, I had Bork and Dan with me, so we opted for a big hike to see what we could see. At more than 11 miles, this loop and spur hike was perfect. We enjoyed visiting my favorite tree in the Red, Hidden Arch, and the footbridge over Red River. Add wildflower season to the mix, and it was a perfect hike.
Read MoreAfter walking the Natural Arch Loop, head a little further west for a quick walk to big views on the Panoramic View Trail. This looks out to Natural Arch and Buffalo Canyon Trail below. I can imagine this to be the ideal short hike when Fall colors are in season.
Read MoreNot to be confused with Natural Bridge, Natural Arch is the largest arch in the Big South Fork region - residing just north of the the National River Recreation Area. It’s an impressive arch to be sure, and the winter walk was the definition of solitary - not another human being in sight or sound:-)
Read MoreThis pair of small arches or ‘windows’ is a short, easy walk from the parking lot. It’s worth a stop just about anytime you’re passing through. Kids enjoy exploring the windows and small rock shelters along the way, but be sure to keep them close past the windows.
Read MoreThis was a terrific wintertime hike with zero hikers on the trails but plenty of climbers making their way up Military Wall. It made for a quiet, scenic, and entertaining couple hours in the Gorge. It was fun watching the climbers and D Boon Hut sits under one of the largest rock shelters in the region.
Read MoreThe pinnacles of Berea sit atop Indian Fort Mountain just south of town. It’s a private forest owned by the college and is a terrific day hiking destination with expansive views, interesting geology, and every October, it’s Mountain Day - a day when the college is closed and students are encouraged to get outside.
Read MoreThis is a short, but sweet hike where you can explore a double arch and take in a number of expansive views. It makes a great ‘drive-up’ hike and with the picnic area nearby, a nice place to take lunch and relax. If you’re in the Gorge, this is a no-brainer hike to add to the list.
Read MoreThis is a great day hike with plenty of physical challenge, interesting geology throughout, and more than a few great views. We mixed up the hike a bit by taking Gray’s Arch Trail over to Rush Ridge before rejoining Rough Trail. This eliminates one of the tough climbs on Rough Trail and replaces it with some easy, peaceful miles in the woods.
Read MoreWithin Jefferson National Forest is the Siltstone Trail. A 6.7 mile trail that runs between the Horine Reservation and Scott’s Gap Road. It’s a nice ridgeline hike with plenty of elevation change to add a bit of challenge.
Read MoreThis hike has the biggest views in Red River Gorge. In a word, it’s spectacular. The loop will take you along two ridgelines where you’ll see where you’re going and where you’ve been. In the Fall, this is the place to be.
Read MoreFinding peace and happiness on the trails of Kentucky.
