While exploring the Red River Gorge is eastern Kentucky, we spent a day at Natural Bridge Resort Park that sits on the edge of the Red River Gorge. This park has so much to offer, but it is important to note that dogs are not allowed on the trails so Ellie had to sit this one out.

We started our day by parking in the Lodge parking lot and walking behind the Lodge to the start of the Original Trail. This trail was built in the 1890’s by a railroad company. This is the shortest and steepest route to the Natural Bridge. The trail climbs through a lush forest to the base of the Natural Bridge. The arch is IMPRESSIVE!

After exploring the base, walk underneath the arch and find the natural staircase on the side of the arch which is a tight squeeze! This will lead to a stairway that will take you to the top of the arch!

We walked across the top of the arch and took in the views! Far off in the distance, you can see Lookout Point.

We crossed the arch and followed the Laurel Ridge Trail which first leads to one of the most unique features of the park, the Sky Lift! I think it is great when nature can be more accessible to all and the Sky Lift if a great way to visit and experience the arch if you are unable to hike to it. We ducked underneath the Sky Lift and continued along the Laurel Ridge Trail to Lookout Point.

This is one of the best views in the park since you can see the Natural Bridge from another angle!

We stayed on the Laurel Ridge Trail and hiked to Lover’s Leap which had another great view. One of the things I thought was neat about this overlook we could see Miguel’s Pizza down below where we ate dinner the night before! It seems like Miguel’s is somewhat of a local star and I really liked it so check it out!

From here, we backtracked to Devil’s Gulch. I loved this part of the trail! A natural set of stairs descend a ravine followed by several additional sets of man-made stairs.

From here, we followed the trail back to the Original Trail and then back to our car. We had a quick snack and then headed to the parking lot of the Sky Lift. If you are looking for a great gift shop, check out the one at the Sky Lift!

We bought a one way ticket to the top so that we could experience the Sky Lift. There had been a wild fire at the park just a couple weeks before we visited and as we rode the lift to the top, the burn line was visible.

Once at the top, we re-traced our steps back over the Natural Bridge, but this time we headed down the Rock Garden Trail. I had read that this trail was packed with a ton of scenery and it was! The trail actually cuts underneath the Sky Lift and follows a bluff line.

I am really glad we hiked this trail. All in all this is such a great park with so much to offer! Be sure to check out Natural Bridge State Resort Park in Kentucky!