Blackburn Rock Out and Back from Hatton Ridge Road

Sep 24

Overview. This is one of the better overlooks in Red River Gorge and a nice sunset spot. This short route is open Spring through Fall using the very long gravel road on Hatton Ridge. Forest Service closes the road in Winter. Read the cautions and notes below before heading out.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 1.03 miles
Elevation Gain | 171 feet
Overall Difficulty | Easy

GPS Waypoints
Blackburn Rock Trailhead | 37.876511, -83.695975
Blackburn Rock Overlook | 37.879722,-83.702222
Red River Gorge Area Map

Parking. Very limited parking is available at the unmarked/unmaintained trailhead. Hatton Ridge Road is a tree-lined single lane gravel road with relatively long distances between bump-outs to allow for passing vehicles. If you drive here, be ready to put it in reverse for a good stretch if you encounter oncoming traffic. This area sees both OHV and horse traffic.

Trail Navigation. The trail is unmarked and unmaintained, but very well trod. Follow the trail along the ridge and steadily descend to the overlook. There are plenty of spots to catch a nice view. If you would like to cross the wide crack in the rock (Blackburn Rock is a chimney), look to your right to find a less deadly crossing that is pictured below. Retrace your steps when you’re ready and return to your vehicle.

HIKER NOTE - Sunset. This is a great sunset overlook year-round, but late October is the best time to be here. By then, the leaves have changed and the sun sets to the southwest.

HIKER NOTE - Add Powder Mill and Wolf Pen Arches. A short walk north on Hatton Ridge Road leads to the west trailhead for Powder Mill Branch Trail. Descend this to reach the arches that are a short distance uphill from the main trail. Here are the waypoints:

Turn to Powder Mill Branch & Wolf Pen Arch | 37.865644, -83.686136
Powder Mill Branch & Wolf Pen Arch | 37.867075, -83.685272

CAUTION - Deadly Drops. Long falls from high places are the #1 non-health related cause of death for hikers in Kentucky. Keep your distance from the edges of cliffs to avoid a deadly fall. Young children should be kept close.

CAUTION - Poisonous Snakes. Copperheads and timber rattlesnakes can be found in the area. Should you encounter one, stop and slowly back away. Always give venomous snakes a wide berth. Know Before You Go => University of Kentucky Venomous Snake Guide

CAUTION - Black Bears. Ursus Americanus - a.k.a. the American black bear is growing in population throughout much of Kentucky. Know Before You Go => US Forest Service Black Bear Safety Tips