Kentucky's wilderness is filled with a variety of interesting landscapes that make it one of the best hiking destinations in our region. Visitors come from all over the world to hike our trails and we are lucky to live in a state where natural beauty and access to it abounds. Red River Gorge is one of the most well known places to get out and explore and its natural bridges and sandstone arches are a favorite feature. While there are many to see in the Gorge, Sky Bridge tends to get less attention than the picturesque Natural Bridge. But the Sky Bridge Trail is an easy hike in Kentucky with a big pay off and a must-see spot in this area of our state.
The Sky Bridge Trail is an easy hike in Red River Gorge that is great for families and those looking for something quick.
At just under a mile, the hike is relatively easy and makes a scenic loop. There is a parking lot, picnic tables, and restrooms at the trailhead, making it very accessible to those wanting to give it a try.
Some of the trail is paved, but keep in mind that it is not completely accessible for wheelchairs.
The trail winds along a ridge, allowing for plenty of views and photo ops. While this is an easy enough hike for kids, definitely keep a close eye on them and emphasize caution for everyone.
For a short and easy trail in Kentucky, Sky Bridge offers a lot of diversity.
A portion of the trail takes you through thick forest and a variety of plantlife, which even resembles a jungle-like environment.
When you reach the top of the Sky Bridge, the path leads right over the top of it.
The views from up here are beautiful and it's a unique experience to walk right across the top. The path is fairly wide, but especially with crowds and small children, keep a close eye because there are no handrails.
The views throughout the entire trail show off the beauty of the Gorge.
In the summertime, witness sweeping views of green and you can also imagine how vibrant this scene is in the fall.
The trail leads you to the bottom of the Bridge, which is a popular spot for photos.
While not as large as the Natural Bridge, also in Red River Gorge, Sky Bridge is just as photogenic and fascinating.
It's incredible to think how this arch was created and what has happened in this spot throughout history.
In the height of hiking season, the trail can be crowded with visitors, as with any of the popular trails in Red River Gorge. If you want to avoid the crowds, try a weekday or evening.
At the end of the trail, you'll have a climb of about 75 stairs to get you back to the parking lot.
That is definitely the most challenging part of the hike, as most of it is simply scenic and relaxing. Take your time enjoying this easy hike in Kentucky and see yet another incredible natural bridge in our state.
While the Sky Bridge Trail is rarely empty, this easy hike in Kentucky remains lesser known than others. The next time you're in the area, be sure to include a stop at this trail for a quick and easy hike that's filled with Kentucky's natural beauty. Have you hiked the Sky Bridge Trail in Red River Gorge? What's your favorite easy hike in Kentucky? Let us know in the comments!
For more information on the trail and directions for how to find it, visit here.
And while you're enjoying the trail, be sure to stop at this nearby restaurant of the same name, featured in our previous article here.
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