Kentucky is one of those states that continues to amaze me. This southern haven is full of natural wonders, breathtaking trails, fun campgrounds, unique caverns, a plethora of outdoor activities, such as horseback riding and zip lining, even a National Park! I have so much to share about this state, but for now I’m going to tell you about one of my favorite Kentucky spots, Red River Gorge.
Red River Gorge is located in central Kentucky, neighboring Natural Bridge State Park. These two areas are heavily trafficked in the summer but are ghost towns in the winter. As we do with many parks, we visited both spots in August and January.
August was touristy, as one would probably imagine. Despite the hustle and bustle of the crowds and the noise scattering the trails, silence existed. You just have to know where to find it. Veer away from the shortest trails; instead, step toward the lengthy trails. These longer trails aren’t as popular in the summer because summer brings tourists, and tourists typically just want to see highlights. It’s what is behind the highlights that you’ll find that serenity between the pines.
One of my favorite trails was the Devil’s Gulch. We were the only two hiking this trail at the time; the atmosphere was silent and slightly eerie. Climbing the steep, jagged staircase that sliced the trail, I admired my surroundings, in reverent awe.
One of the perks of visiting Natural Bridge and Red River Gorge in the summer is the sky lift. We hopped on the red swing and climbed up the hills, through the valleys and over to the infamous natural bridge. Feet dangling from the ride, elevation gradually climbing, our 360 view was stunning. Incredible landscapes stretched in all directions as we climbed higher, and people became tiny dots in a sea of green. Once we approached the coveted Natural Bridge, we hopped off the sky lift, our feet wobbly and our vision a bit blurred from the sudden change in elevation. Sun shining high in the early afternoon sky and temperatures rising by the hour, we crossed the bridge, slowly and with reverence. Gliding my feet across the smooth, rocky surface, I felt on top of the world. The tree-dotted valley stretched below me, rolling as far as I could see. The bridge seemed to endlessly lay in front of me, like a pathway to a magical land, just waiting to be discovered. Imaginations running wild, we ventured down the rock steps, squeezed through the massive boulders, and arrived at the base of the bridge. Just as stunning as the top, only this time, I was level with the tree bases, and the massive bridge was arched above me. Marveled at such a towering, natural masterpiece, we ventured into other trails that stemmed from the main path, entering quieter and equally stunning landscapes.
Winter welcomed us with open arms when we stepped back into the same park a year and a half later. Marveling at the ghosted landscapes, cool, quiet air, and thick fog rolling over the trees, we ventured into a secluded paradise.
The entire park was silent, the only sounds our hiking boots crunching on the dead leaves below and the occasional tree branch rustle from the slight breeze or scurrying creature. Stepping onto the natural bridge, I was instantly transported back to the first time I had set foot onto this creation. Hot temperatures, sunny skies, thick crowds with people taking selfies and standing a little too close to the edge. Blinking and reverting my eyes back to my present surroundings, I gazed all around me. Now, I saw a snow-dusted bridge, a heavy fog hanging low over the trees like a weighted blanket. Visibility was minimal, but I was enraptured. It’s amazing how the same place can look completely different, depending on the day, time, month, or season that you visit.
Rain drizzled through the trees, sprinkling our jackets and our noses as we wound through the wet trails. We explored some of the same trails as the previous summer, and save for the natural bridge, the surroundings were almost unrecognizable. The dense fog, drizzly atmosphere and snow-dusted ground contrasted deeply with the high temperatures, bright sunshine, and long visibility from the summer.
If you’re in Kentucky and looking for a beautiful spot to explore, add Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge State Park to your itinerary! No matter the season, you’ll find something extraordinary to discover.
Happy hiking!
Wonder. Wander. Repeat. 