Natural Arch Loop
Map of Natural Arch Loop, Big South Fork
Elevation Profile of Natural Arch Loop, Big South Fork
Overview. This was the first hike I did in the region many years ago, and it remains a great, short hike to one of Kentucky’s most impressive arches. The rock outcropping that seemingly comes up out of nowhere is as impressive as the arch and a beautiful walk in the forest.
Route Type | Lollipop
Total Distance | 1.48 miles
Elevation Gain | 333 feet
Overall Difficulty | Moderate
GPS Waypoints
Trailhead | 36.840692, -84.511089
Natural Arch | 36.845479, -84.511777
Buffalo Canyon Trail Junction | 36.846239, -84.512303
Natural Arch Scenic Area Map
Parking. Ample parking is available at the trailhead nearest the amphitheater with all the facilities - trash receptacles, bathrooms, picnic tables, and more.
Trail Navigation. Locate the trailhead near the trash bins and walk the paved sidewalk until reaching the junction with the marked trailhead for Natural Arch Loop and Buffalo Canyon Trail. Continue until reaching a pair of overlooks - developed on your left and a exposed clifftop rock on the right. Take a few moments here to enjoy the views before returning to the trail. Walk down before ascending up and through Natural Arch. Continue around the back of the arch and make a left at the intersection with Buffalo Canyon Trail. Make your way around the cliff faces before finishing the loop section of the lollipop. Turn right to retrace your steps back 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
Amphitheater Trailhead for Natural Arch Loop, Big South Fork
Natural Arch Loop and Buffalo Canyon Trailhead, Big South Fork
Easternmost Overlook, Big South Fork
Natural Arch from Developed Overlook, Big South Fork
Mountain Laurel from the Ridgetop, Big South Fork
Natural Arch Approach View, Big South Fork
Looking Up at Post Office Arch, Big South Fork
Natural Arch from West Approach, Big South Fork
Natural Arch from Behind, Big South Fork
Crag at Natural Arch, Big South Fork
Left for Natural Arch Loop, Right for Buffalo Canyon Trail, Big South Fork
Sloth Sculpture, Big South Fork