Overview. This is the only private day use fee area in Red River Gorge and provides some of the most commanding views in the region. A loop of overlooks at the top provide 360-degree views of the Gorge that were spectacular on this sun and clouds day. Be sure to spot Auxier Ridge, Courthouse Rock, Tarr Ridge West, and more while you’re up there.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 3.82 miles
Elevation Gain | 683 feet
Overall Difficulty | Moderate with Strenuous Sections

GPS Waypoints
Trailhead | 37.829133, -83.663167
Paved Road Start | 37.840917, -83.664342
Raven Rock Loop Start | 37.836619, -83.666403
this is an unmarked and mostly unmaintained trail, but easily navigated

Parking. Ample parking is available in the private parking lot with numbered spaces. Free parking is extremely limited on marked pull-offs on the main road. Parking fee is $5 for the day or $10 overnight. Free parking users must pay a fee of $2 to access the trail.

Trail Navigation. Though unmarked, this trail is easy to follow. Start by walking on the mowed double track trail, passing a forest gate and then following Gray’s Branch. About 9/10ths of a mile in, locate the old paved road and begin your ascent. See the cautions below, as this trail is far from easy - especially when wet. Continue until reaching the top that has a metal railing encompassing the overlook area. Walk the loop to enjoy 360-degree views of Red River Gorge before returning down the pavement. Be particularly cautious on the downhill.

HIKER NOTE - Snow/Ice. I will likely revisit this hike with some snow and ice on the ground to enjoy its superior views. I’ll have my microspikes and waterproof socks - and I’ll stay off the pavement as much as possible.

HIKER NOTE - Sunrise/Sunset. This is one of the few locations in the region that makes for a great sunrise or sunset view. Given a choice between the two, I’d prefer sunrise here with a little fog over the river;-)

CAUTION - FEE AREA. The landowner who provides the parking lot, trail access, and mows the flat portion of the trail requires a nominal fee for use. $2 for a walkthrough, $5 for day parking, and $10 for overnight parking. Be sure to pay your fair share, and for those who don’t like usage fees, hike elsewhere.

CAUTION - Private Property. This hike passes through segments of private and public property. Private landowners are not obligated to provide access and are perfectly within their rights to charge fees. Be respectful when hiking here to maintain access for others.

CAUTION - Slick Pavement. Most of the steep sections are paved, and that’s a bad thing. It’s old blacktop that is heavily worn (less grip), has a ton of moss (super slick), and water drains down portions of it. Hike this during a dry spell or be ready to take a fall. When hiking when wet, stay low and balanced. Bailout uphill if you fall and slide to avoid more severe consequences downhill.

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