Moonshiners Arch High Route Out and Back

Feb 13

Elevation Profile of Moonshiners Arch High Route Out and Back

Overview. For the best footing and cleanest path, the high route to Moonshiners Arch is the way to go. The low route along the river has some massive downed trees and some slick rocks that can be tricky. Take this route to enjoy the massive limestone arch with a lower injury risk profile.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 0.47 miles
Elevation Gain | 108 feet
Overall Difficulty | Easy

GPS Waypoints
Osborne Bend (East) Trailhead | 37.820333, -83.574822
Unmarked Split to Moonshiners Arch | 37.820939, -83.573264
Moonshiners Arch | 37.821206, -83.571672
Red River Gorge Area Map

Parking. A good number of parking spaces are available at the trailhead and along the road, but this area fills up on busy weekends thanks to a number of great hikes that start here. Do NOT park in designated emergency vehicle spaces, as search and rescue operations are popular from this trailhead. Pit toilets and trash receptacles are available here.

Trail Navigation. Walk behind the infoboards to locate the trailhead and begin moving uphill. By the time you start breathing heavily, you’ll reach the trail split and start moving downhill. Go right at the unmarked fork and descend the old roadbed to reach a camping area. Continue straight past it and look for a hole in the ground - this is the chimney/skylight of Moonshiners Arch. Turn left to enter the arch’s underbelly and take in the amazing geology. Retrace your steps to return to the parking lot.

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