Sunset at The Veranda

Dec 12

Map of The Veranda Out and Back, Red River Gorge

Elevation Profile of The Veranda Out and Back, Red River Gorge

Overview. This premium overlook is better known for its sunrise views, but nearest the Winter Solstice, The Veranda delivers an incredibly beautiful scene. With the sun dropping down just at the edge of Rush Ridge, this was an ideal way to close out the day.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 3.23 miles
Elevation Gain | 610 feet
Overall Difficulty | Easy to Moderate

GPS Waypoints
Gray’s Arch Trailhead | 37.808250, -83.657575
Pinch ‘em Tight Trailhead | 37.807350, -83.656056
Pinch ‘em Tight/Rush Ridge Trail Junction | 37.807919, -83.654056
Rush Ridge Overlook | 37.814500, -83.649061
Rush Ridge/Rough Trail Junction | 37.819028, -83.646417
The Veranda | 37.818119, -83.641011
a portion of this hike is on unmarked and unmaintained trail

GPX File

KML File

Parking. Ample parking is available at Gray’s Arch Recreation Area, across the street at Archaic, or back toward KY-15 at the Pinch ‘em Tight Parking Lot. This area routinely fills up on nice weather weekends, so arrive early or late to get a parking spot and avoid a hefty parking ticket.

Trail Navigation. This is a relatively easy one to navigate even though the last section is unmarked and unmaintained. From Gray’s Arch Recreation Area, turn left onto Tunnel Ridge Road and reach the Pinch ‘em Tight/Sheltowee Trace Trailhead. Head northeast on the trail until reaching the first marked intersection with Rush Ridge Trail. Turn left (north) and follow the marked trail (white diamonds ONLY) until the junction with Rough Trail. Turn right (northeast) and move downhill about 100 paces. Locate a trail stake at a trail junction. Continue straight to follow the unmarked spur to The Veranda. IF you descend steeply on marked trail, you’re doing it wrong;-) The user trail to The Veranda is a small spaghetti network - just follow the widest, most packed down trail generally east-southeast until reaching the distinct patch of rock that is the eastern edge of The Veranda. Enjoy the views and retrace your steps from here.

HIKER NOTE - Sunrise. This is a premium year-round sunrise spot with expansive views east. It would be ideal to catch the sun as it rises above the gap on Pinch ‘em Tight nearer the Summer Solstice.

CAUTION - Campfires. This is a horrifyingly bad spot for a campfire - wind exposed, no water source, and limited soil to build a mound fire. Cold camp and enjoy the stars instead.

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