Red River Gorge Scenic Byway
Red River Gorge Scenic Byway
| Departure: | Stanton, Kentucky |
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| Destination: | Zachariah, Kentucky |
| Time to allow: | 1 day |
Enjoy fascinating geology, interesting plant life and wildlife viewing, and recreation opportunities all along Red River Gorge Scenic Byway.
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Start: Stanton
Stanton is the beginning point for the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway. Here you'll find access to hundreds of miles of trails.
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Stop 2: Red River
Directions from previous place: Continue along Red River Gorge to the Red River crossing. The river travels along with you as you travel the Byway.
Distance from Previous Site: 5 miles / 8.0 km Travel Time from Previous Site: 10 minutes Suggested Time at This Site: 15 minutes Soon after you begin your drive along the Red River Gorge, you'll cross the Red River. The Red River carved the Red River Gorge thousands of years ago and offers a variety of recreation options. Kayak, canoe, or just enjoy the water's gentle sounds as you travel the Byway.
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Stop 3: Nada Tunnel
Distance from Previous Site: 15 miles / 24.0 km Travel Time from Previous Site: 20 minutes Suggested Time at This Site: 15 minutes Nada Tunnel is a hand carved tunnel which goes through solid rock. The 900 foot tunnel is an alternative way to access the Red River Gorge. The tunnel is for one-lane traffic only.
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Stop 4: Raven Rock
Distance from Previous Site: 3 miles / 4.8 km Travel Time from Previous Site: 10 minutes Suggested Time at This Site: 45 minutes Raven Rock is a site to view dramatic arches that can be found along the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway. This state park is a nice place to relax with the family.
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Stop 5: Red River Gorge Geological Area
The Red River Gorge Geological Area is known for the numerous natural stone arches located within this area, as well as the historic significance of the logging industry.
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Stop 6: Clifty Wilderness
This national wilderness area provides remote camping and hiking opportunities.
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Stop 7: Gladie Historic Site
Gladie Historic Site is a historic logging settlement, complete with a reconstructed log cabin.
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Stop 8: Sky Bridge
Sky Bridge is the largest arch in Red River Gorge.
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Stop 9: Angel Windows
Angel Windows is a scenic pullout and short hike which allows visitors a chance to view the Angel Windows arches.
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Stop 10: Pine Ridge
This scenic hamlet is located at the eastern edge of the Gorge.
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Stop 11: Natural Bridge State Resort Park
Natural Bridge State Resort Park features Natural Bridge with a skylift to the bridge.
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Stop 12: Sheltowee Trace National Recreational Trail
Towards the Zachariah end of the Byway, you'll cross the famous Sheltowee Trail. This trail runs the north to south width of the state, and it was used by Native Americans and Daniel Boone.
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End: Zachariah
Zachariah is the ending point of the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway.
