Chimney Top Rock and Princess Arch

Sep 22

Overview. After getting into the Gorge, we stopped here to stretch the legs and catch some excellent views with friendly clouds overhead. This is a great hike to kickoff your time in Red River Gorge with a top notch overlook and one of the most popular arches in Kentucky.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 1.39 miles
Elevation Gain | 240 feet
Overall Difficulty | Easy

Parking. Ample parking is available at the trailhead and along the road, but can fill up on busy weekends. Thankfully, these hikes are short walks, so vehicles shuffle in and out consistently throughout the day.

Trail Navigation. Locate the Chimney Top Rock Trailhead on the southwest part of the cul-de-sac and take the mostly paved trail out to its end at the overlook. Feel free to checkout the side trails that lead to minor overlooks, but take care to stay a healthy distance from the cliff’s edge. Retrace your steps back to the parking lot, crossover to the northeast side of the cul-de-sac, and take Princess Arch Trail. Descend gently before reaching a wide intersection that is a loop. Take the left turn and descend more before turning and seeing Princess Arch come into view. Enjoy the arch and keep moving on the loop, keeping your eyes to the right. You’ll see Little Princess Arch which is a thin arch inside of a short rock overhang. Continue the loop and stay on the main, wide path before circling back to the top of the arch with an overlook just short of the arch-top crossing. Walk uphill to return to the trailhead.

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