Sunset at Tarr Ridge East Overlook #3
Map of Tarr Ridge East Overlook #3 Out and Back, Red River Gorge
Elevation Profile of Tarr Ridge East Overlook #3 Out and Back
Overview. This was an easy hike to a nice sunset spot under clear skies with unusually warm temps. The overlooks on Tarr Ridge East have varying worth as sunset spots depending on the time of year, but this one was rock solid;-)
Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 2.58 miles
Elevation Gain | 341 feet
Overall Difficulty | Easy with a Class 2 Scramble
this hike is on unmarked trails, but is easy to navigate
GPS Waypoints
Trailhead | 37.852856, -83.641878
Turn to Overlook #3 | 37.839739, -83.637370
Overlook #3 | 37.840478, -83.638453
Red River Gorge Area Map
Parking. Limited parking is available at the top of KY-77 at a roadside lot. Please park to maximize space for others. This lot is frequently full over the weekends in the warmer months with dispersed campers taking advantage of the many campsites along these unmarked trails.
Trail Navigation. Pick-up the unmarked trail on the left of the RRG sign and follow it out about 1.2 miles to a trail junction at a campsite. The trail is tucked in behind the campsite, so walk just past it and the spur to the overlook will come into view. Walk out on the narrower trail past another campsite until reaching a bald patch of rock. Scoot down on your bottom to reach the overlook proper. After taking in the views, 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
View from just beyond the campsite looking back - take the narrower trail on the left in this pic
First open patch near sunset
Sunset at Tarr Ridge East Overlook #3