Koger Arch Out and Back
This is a short hike to an impressive arch in Big South Fork NRRA. The region is littered with arches, but this is one of the finest among them and should always be included in your itinerary when visiting this part of the recreation area. After visiting Dick Gap Overlook, stop here - parking is easier this way too!
Catawba Overlook the Easy Way
This is the easiest route to a nice overlook with a fine view of Blue Heron Mining Community down below. The trail is partially shared with horses and is a little mucky even after a few dry days. When wet, head to the waterfalls a little further along the trail - see notes below.
Sunrise at Dick Gap Overlook and Arch
Dick Gap Overlook sits high above a beautiful bend in the Big South Fork across from Blue Heron Mining Community. The views are spectacular year-round, but nearest the summer solstice, the sun down the seam above Devil’s Jump. When fog is thick, as it was on our visit, some patience is required to wait for the fog to lift. We enjoyed a nice halo scene as a result.
2023 Yamacraw 20K
The Yamacraw 20K course is arguably the most scenic ‘fun run’ in Kentucky with a net descent paired with beautiful forest scenes, passing by Princess Falls, and going through a pair of mountain laurel tunnels that just happen to be in bloom on race day each year. It’s a must-do event for trail runners in the region and sells out annually.
Devil’s Jump Overlook
This overlook delivers the goods. Situated at a bend in the Big South Fork with a commanding view of Devil’s Jump, we enjoyed some late day sun and clouds with paddlers just below the rapids.
Blue Heron Overlook
This short out and back delivers a beautiful scene high above the Big South Fork. This overlook is nicely developed with a large deck and gazebo built atop the natural rock outcropping. When visiting the Blue Heron area, it’s always worth a quick stop.
Gentlemen’s Swimming Hole Out and Back
This is a terrific short hike while visiting the region. Enjoy a seasonal waterfall, sandstone arch, and idyllic swimming hole in the Clear Fork River. I imagine in the dog days of Summer, this is the place to be in Rugby.
2022 Yamacraw 50K DNF
This year, I posted a DNF (Did Not Finish) and while a DNF hurts, this one is still hurting weeks later as I write this. Somewhere around mile 6(?), I planted my foot, the rock shifted, and I took a hard fall on my chest and face.
Split Bow Arch Out and Back
This is one of the more interesting arches in Kentucky and a short walk in the woods. The trail takes you through the arch and is most commonly hiked as a loop. Short on daylight, we shaved a few steps off the hike with the out and back route instead.
Bear Creek Overlook for Sunset
This is one of the best sunset spots in the Commonwealth - and with Split Bow Arch next door, it’s a must-visit anytime you find yourself in the region. And, I have yet to encounter another person on my visits here that are typically on the weekends:-)
2021 Yamacraw 50K
I wear a Road ID bracelet and on it is inscribed, “Last Place > DNF > DNS.” Translated, that’s, “Last place is better than did not finish is better than did not start.” Coming in undertrained and in conditions that I’d rather hike than run, I hiked. A lot. And got that last place finish with only seconds to spare:-)
May at Dick Gap Overlook and Arch
This is among the finest overlooks in Kentucky. Situated high above a bend in Big South Fork with Blue Heron Mining Community on one side and Devil’s Jump on the other, this is a premium vista. And in May, you get to see plenty of mountain laurel lining the last section of trail to the overlook.
Princess and Julia Lynn Falls Springtime Out and Back
I’ve always hiked here as part of longer routes, so the day before a 50K race made for a great reason to hike the short version. Princess Falls is among the more playful waterfalls in Kentucky and typically has decent flow except during significant droughts. Along the way, enjoy Julia Lynn Falls that was trickling after a dry stretch, but is gorgeous with recent rains.