Natural Bridge The Original Trail

This is one of the most known and popular trails in Red River Gorge area. It is technically in the Natural Bridge Kentucky State Nature Preserves. This trail is easy/moderate difficulty. The trail isn’t difficult but it is the elevation change and the fact that once you start going up, it’s going up all the way to the top with no flat areas. It’s a short hike that my 3 year old was able to do, however, he wanted to be carried back down. This trail starts off behind the Natural Bridge Resort Lodge. It’s a beautiful trail that goes through a hemlock forest with rhododendron. There are shelters along the short trail that can be used as breaks. The trail ends underneath the Natural Bridge. If you wish to go to the top, there is a trail that goes to the top through a natural fissure on the otherside of the arch. It’s not hard to miss. It is worth the extra little bit for the beautiful views on top of the arch. The fissure can be narrow in spots, so be warned if you are claustrophobic. To return to your car, you head back down the way you came up.