There's A Tiny Town In Kentucky Completely Surrounded By Breathtaking Natural Beauty
By Rachel Shulhafer|Published February 17, 2017
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Rachel Shulhafer
Author
I grew up in Louisville, Kentucky. I have lived elsewhere twice, but keep coming back. I'm a video editor and freelance writer who enjoys watching people wearing University of Louisville uniforms excel at sports, scaling the faces of large rocks, and hanging out with my border collie/laborador/cattle dog mutt thingy that I have.
If you find yourself driving down the Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway in eastern Kentucky, keep a lookout for road signs about a little town called Slade. It may not sound like much, and yes, it is a tiny town, but you absolutely must exit the highway and explore. What makes Slade so special? It is completely surrounded by absolutely breathtaking natural beauty.
Slade is located in Powell County, about an hour from Lexington and two hours from Louisville. According to Census information, Slade's population is about 303.
Slade is right in the middle of the Daniel Boone National Forest. Its proximity to Natural Bridge State Resort Park and the Red River Gorge means it is surrounded by some of the most gorgeous natural features in the whole state.
The Red River Gorge Scenic Byway travels right through Slade and explores the surrounding areas. It's a great way to see this jewel of Kentucky if you don't have time to get out of your car and explore on foot.
Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Slade is visit Natural Bridge State Resort Park, which is named for this massive natural arch that you'll find at the end of the Original Trail. The Red River Gorge has hundreds of natural sandstone arches that formed over the course of 70 million years due to erosion from wind and water.
It's gorgeous any time of year, but it's especially breathtaking in the fall when the leaves are changing, or in the spring when all the wildflowers are blooming.
If you visit Natural Bridge State Resort Park during the months of April through October, you can ride the sky lift up to the top of Natural Bridge, which makes for an amazing day trip.
If you're hungry during your visit to Slade, stop in at Miguel's Pizza. This iconic restaurant allows you to build your own pizzas, and is a favorite place to refuel among hikers and rock climbers.
