Fall Colors at Camera Point and Sky Bridge Overlook
Vista, Red River Gorge Region Michael Harr Vista, Red River Gorge Region Michael Harr

Fall Colors at Camera Point and Sky Bridge Overlook

This is a nice pair of overlooks that are less frequently visited than the Sky Bridge loop - even though it’s just a short walk down the road. We stopped here to grab a couple quick views that are much improved than prior years thanks to the clearing of the handicap accessible overlook. On a busy Fall day, it was kinda nice to capture some photos of folks walking across the impressive arch.

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Fall Colors at Eagle Point Buttress + Moonshiners Arch Out and Back
Arch, River, Vista, Red River Gorge Region Michael Harr Arch, River, Vista, Red River Gorge Region Michael Harr

Fall Colors at Eagle Point Buttress + Moonshiners Arch Out and Back

This short hike stops at Moonshiners Arch before following the river to the turn that goes steeply uphill on loose soil and rock - gaining 374 vertical feet across a quarter-mile of trail (roughly 28% average grade). This is the shortest, but most physically demanding route to reach the point. However, spectacular southerly views above a sharp bend in the river await those who make the climb.

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Jailhouse Rock and Star Gap Branch East Overlooks
Vista, Red River Gorge Region Michael Harr Vista, Red River Gorge Region Michael Harr

Jailhouse Rock and Star Gap Branch East Overlooks

There are innumerable clifftop overlooks scattered across Red River Gorge. This hike will take you out to three of them on the ‘Jailhouse Rock Trail’ that is a user created, unmarked, and unmaintained spur off Double Arch Trail’s road section. It is easily one of the better overlooks in the region with wide views east and the other overlooks featured on this hike face west. If camping, hit one of the west facing views over Star Gap Branch for sunset and wake up early to catch sunrise at Jailhouse Rock. Also, recent blowdowns obstruct sections of the trail, so if you’re packing a handsaw, feel free to clear a few limbs to preserve the original trail.

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Blue Heron Loop and Spurs from the Top
River, Vista, Big South Fork Region Michael Harr River, Vista, Big South Fork Region Michael Harr

Blue Heron Loop and Spurs from the Top

This is one of the most beautiful loops in Kentucky. We hiked this from the top to see if we could catch changing skies at the overlooks (we didn’t), but the loop has Blue Heron Overlook, Cracks in the Rocks, plenty of mining history, access to the river, Devil’s Jump, a couple beaches, and Devil’s Jump Overlook. If I’d have hiked this with LaFonda, no question we would’ve spent an hour soaking in the river.

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Sunrise at Dick Gap Overlook and Arch
Arch, Vista, Big South Fork Region Michael Harr Arch, Vista, Big South Fork Region Michael Harr

Sunrise at Dick Gap Overlook and Arch

Dick Gap Overlook sits high above a beautiful bend in the Big South Fork across from Blue Heron Mining Community. The views are spectacular year-round, but nearest the summer solstice, the sun down the seam above Devil’s Jump. When fog is thick, as it was on our visit, some patience is required to wait for the fog to lift. We enjoyed a nice halo scene as a result.

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Everything Except Auxier Ridge
Arch, Vista, Red River Gorge Region Michael Harr Arch, Vista, Red River Gorge Region Michael Harr

Everything Except Auxier Ridge

This is an incredibly scenic route and was especially so with the lively clouds we enjoyed throughout the day. This hike visits seven named overlooks and four arches with a handful of unnamed overlooks to go with it. Mostly ridgeline hiking, be sure to pack plenty of water and electrolytes on hot days and leave a water cache if needed (we did) because there are zero reliable water sources on the route.

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2024 Carter Caves Half Marathon

2024 Carter Caves Half Marathon

The Carter Caves Half Marathon is Kentucky’s prettiest half marathon. Prior to the pandemic, this race was put on by EJ Adventures and has since been resurrected after a couple years off by John’s Run/Walk Shop out of Lexington, Kentucky. The race tours some of the iconic natural bridges and arches and the forest here is truly beautiful.

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Eagle Point Buttress Scenic Loop with Unicorn, Osborne Bend, and Moonshiners Arches
Arch, Vista, Red River Gorge Region Michael Harr Arch, Vista, Red River Gorge Region Michael Harr

Eagle Point Buttress Scenic Loop with Unicorn, Osborne Bend, and Moonshiners Arches

This is a classic loop in Red River Gorge that visits three arches and the best south facing overlook in the region. Situated above a bend in Red River, Eagle Point Buttress provides a stunning view if you can manage a very steep section of unmarked and unmaintained trail. Be sure to read the cautions and notes below before heading out.

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Austin Gap with Ravens Nest, Staircase Caves, and Skyview Rock Shelter
Arch, Vista, Pine Mountain Region Michael Harr Arch, Vista, Pine Mountain Region Michael Harr

Austin Gap with Ravens Nest, Staircase Caves, and Skyview Rock Shelter

This is a spectacular hike and leads to arguably the most interesting geological formations on Pine Mountain’s 120+ mile ridgeline. At the top, you’ll enjoy massive views east and south across Virginia, a pair of small caves, and an arch complex with a skylight that is absolutely stunning. BUT, you’re gonna have to work for it - see the notes below.

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