The Epic 5 Mile Trail in the Red River Gorge Worth the Effort

Some of Kentucky’s best hiking trails can be found within the Daniel Boone National Forest and the Red River Gorge Geological Area. There are plenty of short and sweet hikes that lead to a beautiful view, but if you want to challenge yourself, we’ve got the perfect trail. This hiking trail in the Red River Gorge isn’t too tricky, but just enough to push you out of your comfort zone. Your efforts will be rewarded when you see the view!

While many of the hiking trails in the Red River Gorge are well marked, this isn’t necessarily one of them. We strongly recommend downloading a trail map to your phone before you hit the trailhead. There are several trail spurs and other trails that cross in this area, and it’s easier than you think to find yourself off the trail. 

The Pinch-em Tight Trail to Hanson’s Point is a five-mile out-and-back trail with only 725 feet of elevation gain. The difficulty lies in staying on the trail rather than any technical ascents. 

As you hike further into the trail, it lives up to its name and gets a bit narrower. Many hikers have said that there’s not much of a view along this trail, but I’d encourage you to take a different perspective. While that spectacular vista is the end goal, the journey to Hanson’s Point is filled with beauty; you just need to open your mind. 

Appreciate the forest and the canopy of shade! This hike is truly stunning in the fall when you can wander through the fall foliage, but even in the warmer months, you can find beauty all around you—take note of the mushrooms, wildlife, and maybe even spot a few wildflowers peppering the trail. Swap your playlist for the soundtrack of songbirds and the sounds of your footsteps as you hike the trail. 

Just make sure you're checking your trail map when you come to a fork in the trail. Like we said, it's easier than you think to find yourself off the trail and into a campsite or on another trail completely.

Before you know it, you’ll be at Hanson’s Point, where you can enjoy some of the best views of the New River Gorge. 

Now, this view is fabulous any time of day, but I’ll let you in on a little secret: it’s one of the best sunrise hikes in Kentucky. It’s worth setting your alarm for and hiking in the dark to witness a sunrise over the gorge. Bring snacks, or even bring a Jetboil and make yourself a cup of coffee while you watch the day break in one of the most beautiful places on the planet. 

Check out some of our favorite Kentucky hiking trails for more outdoor adventures. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.