Less Than A Mile Long, The Princess Arch Trail Might Be The Easiest Scenic Hike In Kentucky
Kentucky truly is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Home to a diverse landscape that includes canyons, rivers, waterfalls, forests, and rock formations, the hiking in Kentucky is extraordinary. Even better? You don’t have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the trails, as some of our state’s best hikes are short, sweet, and super accessible. The Princess Arch Trail is one such trek. Less than a mile long and packed with spectacular scenery, this might be the easiest hike in Kentucky!
Kentucky is known for its striking rock formations and natural arches, and while many, like Natural Bridge and Sky Bridge, are well-known, there are many more formations in the Bluegrass to discover.
Princess Arch is one such wonder. As its name suggests, Princess Arch is extremely beautiful and truly one of Kentucky's geological crown jewels. It spans 32 feet and appears in the forest almost out of nowhere, like magic.
What makes this arch even more wonderful is how very accessible it is. This isn't a princess stuck in a high tower to only admire from afar; no, Princess Arch is a breathtaking beauty to behold up close.
The eponymous Princess Arch Trail is a 0.6-mile out-and-back trail in the heart of Red River Gorge. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 17 min to complete... but the views are worth stopping to savor.
The trail itself is well-marked and well-traveled, and you'll likely encounter other hikers along the way. The forest scenery is lush and lovely, and the way the sunlight filters through the trees and dances on the rocks will absolutely enchant you.
While the titular arch is the focal point of this easy hike, there is so much beauty to experience along the way, including other fanciful formations and rocks.
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
