Natural Bridge Kentucky: A Visitor's Guide to the State Resort Park

Natural Bridge is the landmark most people picture when they think of Red River Gorge. The sandstone arch sits inside Natural Bridge State Resort Park in Slade, Kentucky, about an hour east of Lexington off the Mountain Parkway. Here is how to plan your visit.

The arch

The bridge is roughly 65 feet high and 78 feet long. It formed as wind and water slowly wore away softer rock beneath a hard sandstone cap. You can walk across the top, and the views over the surrounding forest are some of the best in the park.

How to get to the top

• Original Trail. The most direct hike, at about 0.75 miles each way. It's steep, with plenty of stairs, but it's the classic way up.
• Laurel Ridge Trail. A longer, gentler ridge walk that connects with other park trails and overlooks.
• Sky Lift. A chairlift that carries you most of the way up, then a short walk to the arch. It runs seasonally, so check the park's current schedule before you go.

Wear shoes with good grip. The sandstone can be slick after rain, and there are no railings on many of the edges.

When to go

Spring brings wildflowers and full creeks. Summer is the busiest season, so start early. Autumn color usually peaks in October, and winter offers quiet trails and clear views through bare trees. Weekend parking fills quickly in peak season.

Beyond the bridge

Natural Bridge sits next to the Red River Gorge Geological Area in the Daniel Boone National Forest, home to many more arches, rock shelters and overlooks. Pair your park visit with a hike from our top 10 Red River Gorge trails, or try the ideas in our things to do guide.

Where to stay near Natural Bridge

Staying close means you can hit the trails before the crowds arrive. Browse our cabins near Natural Bridge in Slade, Stanton and Pine Ridge. Bringing the dog? Look at pet-friendly cabins. Traveling with a crowd? See large group cabins. You can also compare all Red River Gorge cabins with live availability.