This Just Might Be The Most Enchanting Hike In All Of Kentucky
Now that spring seems to be here, it’s time to dust off your hiking boots and head to the trails. However, if you’re looking for a hike that’s easy enough to ease you back into it, but still has jaw-dropping views, then the the Chimney Top Rock Trail in the Red River Gorge is the hike for you. It may be short and sweet, but the views at the end are stunning. It truly might be the most enchanting hike in all of Kentucky.
Chimney Top Rock is a popular attraction at Red River Gorge, so you may see other hikers on your journey. This 0.6-mile trail is paved, making it great for children or people who are new to hiking. If you're a seasoned hiker, don't be put off by the short distance and paved trail. If you're in the Gorge, you absolutely MUST do this hike.
The view at the end of the trail is what this hike is all about. You'll have jaw-dropping panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and some other impressive geological formations in the Gorge.
One of the giant formations you'll see is Half Moon Rock. If you look hard enough, you might see some rock climbers trying to make their way to the top.
The view from Chimney Top Rock is stunning at any time, but it's especially gorgeous during a sunrise or sunset. It's also a great hike to do in the spring when the wildflowers are blooming, or in the fall when the leaves are changing colors.
This is a view of Chimney Top Rock itself. When you eventually do this hike, you'll see that there is railing around the overlook at the end of the trail. People have crossed over this rail to try to hop onto another portion of the rock, which has resulted in several deaths. The rails are there for a reason, so do not climb over them.
To see some unique angles of Chimney Top Rock, check out this Youtube video.
To find the trailhead, exit the Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway at exit 40, and then head west on KY-15. Turn right on KY-715, and continue for a little over two miles. Turn left on Chimney Top Road until it ends, about 4.5 miles.
Has anyone done this hike before?
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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.
