9:00 - 12.4 miles / 24 minutes - 9:24
Without today's high-tech equipment, Nada Tunnel was largely hand-carved to make a road for logging trucks back in the early 1900s. Two teams began in 1910 on each end and worked their way to the middle using steam-powered jackhammers and carbide lamps. The tunnel opened to railcars in 1912 and helped in the transportation of timber. This 900-foot tunnel is for one-lane traffic only and is a very unique way to enter the Red River Gorge. Nada Tunnel is on the National Register of Historic Places.
9:39 - 6.1 miles / 12 minutes - 9:51
Gladie Historic Site
The Gladie Cabin is a reconstructed log home dating back to the late 1800s, during the logging period of Kentucky's history. The land on which the cabin is built has been passed on through many people. The land was eventually used for subsistence farming, and later as a logging camp for the booming industry.
Nearby Gladie Creek was home to many families who frequented the small community center at the mouth of Gladie Creek. There was a school, cemetery,
and small store. Today, the Gladie Historic Site still features the Gladie cabin and shows what life would have been like for these early settlers.
10:21 - 3.8 miles / 7 minutes - 10:29
Sky Bridge Arch is a ridge top arch. Millions of years ago erosion created narrow sandstone ridges. Over the years, these ridges were exposed to the elements, wind, sand, erosion, and arches eventually formed.
Sky Bridge is one of the most popular and the largest arch in the Red River Geological Area. The arch is accessible from a .6 mile trail that passes over and beneath Sky Bridge. The trail makes a loop as it goes over a high cliff shelf and back to the parking area. The trail passes through many varieties of plants and overlooks out into the Red River Gorge.
11:29 - 1.9 miles / 3 minutes - 11:33
Set amidst trees, wildlife, and unique geological features,
Angel Windows is a great first stop on a journey to see the many
arches in the Red River Gorge. The arches are located at the end of
a 1/2-mile round trip walk. The area is a popular one because of
the easiness of the trail and the unique arches waiting at the
12:33 - 4.0 miles / 7 minutes - 12:41
This scenic hamlet located on the east end of the Red River
Gorge, Pine Ridge is a town centered around the lumber and mill
business. The atmosphere of this charming town is typical of
laid-back, small-town Kentucky.
13:11 - 8.6 miles / 17 minutes - 13:28
Natural Bridge State Resort Park
Spanning 78 feet in length and 65 feet in height, a natural sandstone arch is the main attraction at the Natural Bridge State Resort Park. Visitors may ride the Sky Lift to within 600 feet of the arch. In addition to the uniqueness of the bridge, there are many other recreational opportunities to enjoy at the park.
There are 9 hiking trail that range from 1/2 mile to 8 1/2 miles which will take you through the beauty of Natural Bridge State Resort Park. Miniature golf, pedal boats, hydrobikes, and swimming are all available to add variety to your park visit.
For some old fashioned fun, visitors may mosey on down to Hoedown Island on Hoedown Island Lake for some square dancing when available. All visitors will feel at home at Natural Bridge State Resort Park because of the various accomodations. There are 82 camp sites that are furnished with rest rooms and showers, while 12 camp sites are primitive. Each of the 35 rooms at the Hemlock Lodge is complete with a balcony to allow visitors to experience the joy of being out in the Kentucky outdoors. Eight cottages provide maximum opportunities to experience nature at its greatest.
14:58 - 7.5 miles / 15 minutes - 15:13
Red River Gorge Scenic Byway - end