This Kentucky Scenic Byway Is The Road Trip Of A Lifetime
Thinking about hitting the road in Kentucky? The Red River Gorge Scenic Byway deserves a place at the top of any Kentucky road trip itinerary. Back in 2002, the Federal Highway Administration designated it as a National Scenic Byway due to its rugged character and deep local roots. You will encounter a wide range of natural wonders. Cliffs shoot up. Arches stretch out above the thick woods. You will roll across 46 miles on state highways, linking up to all the top spots in the Gorge. It is still, without a doubt, the go-to way to experience the Red River Gorge.
Stanton to Nada Tunnel
Leaving Stanton on KY 11 and turning onto KY 77, the road twists into the woods as the Red River Gorge starts to reveal itself. Pretty soon, you land at Nada Tunnel, which workers blasted out of limestone back in 1910, using nothing but dynamite, some steam drills, and hand tools. The tunnel is 900 feet long and relatively narrow, as it can accommodate only a single car at a time. Timber once rattled down this route on a railroad, but now it is travelers heading right toward the middle of the Gorge. The interior of Nada Tunnel is composed of unlined limestone, with minimal lighting, and it remains damp and cool year-round. Vehicle headlights provide the only illumination, and the walls are close enough that drivers must proceed slowly and yield to oncoming traffic. They call it the “Gateway to the Gorge” for a reason, and it is a slice of history plus a great kickoff to the byway.
Nada Tunnel to Sky Bridge
After visiting the Nada Tunnel, continue on KY 77 until it intersects with KY 715. You will cruise along a twisting stretch lined with tall hardwoods, with a collection of pull-offs where you can stop and check out the nearby cliffs. If you want a stop on the way, consider the Gladie Visitor Center. Inside, displays explain the nearby sandstone cliffs and the region's lumber history. Out front, there is a restored log cabin, replicating the appearance of mountain homesteads from the 19th century.
About 20 minutes later, you will stumble on the entrance to the Sky Bridge Recreation Area, taken care of by the U.S. Forest Service. The arch is a massive sandstone bridge, stretching seventy-five feet and standing approximately twenty-three feet high. From the parking lot, Sky Bridge Arch Trail #214 leads to the top of the bridge. Railings make it relatively easy to cross and provide a safe way to take in the view over the gorge. Beneath the formation, a brief loop allows you to check out the entire sweep of the arch and the marks left from countless years of weather beating down. Most hikers say the Sky Bridge is among the simpler arches to reach in the Gorge, making it an excellent option for beginners.
Sky Bridge to Chimney Top Rock Overlook
From the Sky Bridge, return to KY 715 and continue south. A right turn onto Chimney Top Rock Road leads north toward the overlook. You will cruise about four miles before reaching the parking area for Chimney Top Rock. This stretch of road stays pretty tight, snaking around bends and serving up split-second peeks at cliffs beyond the trees. Chimney Top’s overlook ranks as one of the Gorge’s fan-favorites, mainly because you score a picturesque view without having to walk for hours.
This trail is paved and clocks in at a bit past half a mile, steering you right to a sandstone tip sticking out into the canyon. Once you end up at the fence at the overlook, you will see the Red River swirling below and a collection of famous landmarks, including Half Moon Rock and Auxier Ridge, popping into sight. The spot’s easy access and wide-open perspective make Chimney Top Rock the go-to for people kicking off sightseeing or snapping photos in the Gorge.
On To Natural Bridge State Resort Park
From Chimney Top Rock Road, the route heads south to KY 715, then east to Glen Cairn Road and KY 11. Before long, you will roll up to the main entrance at Natural Bridge State Resort Park. In 1926, the park opened its gates, earning its place as one of Kentucky’s oldest state parks. Currently, it spans over 2,000 acres within Daniel Boone National Forest. Visitors walk into quiet terrain where the forest feels old and the stone ridges stand like walls above the valley floor.
Natural Bridge takes center stage, and the sandstone arch stretches an impressive 78 feet over and rockets right up 65 feet. Normally, people hike the Original Trail, heading three-quarters of a mile uphill to the top, starting from the Natural Bridge Gift Shop. A seasonal sky lift offers an easier option. From the arch, the view spreads across wooded valleys and cliffs. Beyond the arch, the park features over twenty miles of marked trails, some of which lead to other arches and overlooks. Natural Bridge remains the best-known stop along the scenic byway.
Natural Bridge State Resort Park to Zachariah
From the park, KY 11 heads south through the shaded valleys of Daniel Boone National Forest, with sandstone ridges looming over the pavement while the forest crowds up right next to the road.
Not too far south from the park, you can find Red River Rockhouse, famous for its food, like its burgers and tacos. A little further along, you can also find Hops. Both are convenient stops for food or a drink before continuing on.
Past the restaurants, the forest closes in again. Small farms appear along the bottoms, and the land begins to open as you near Zachariah. Fields stretch out over the valley floor, while hills covered in trees climb up beyond. Right here, KY 11 makes it to the southern end of the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway.
Driving the Gorge: Final Thoughts
The Red River Gorge Scenic Byway strings together arches and overlooks in one unforgettable loop. A day bag and a full tank make for an easy start from Stanton. Along the way, the trip offers options: hiking ridges, standing on natural bridges, or simply taking in the views. This drive showcases the Gorge at its finest, and the road trip of a lifetime is waiting for those who try.
