Natural Bridge State Resort Park
Explore a magnificent sandstone arch and hike through the scenic Red River Gorge area in Kentucky.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful hikes.
Natural Bridge State Resort Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful hikes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a magnificent sandstone arch and hike through the scenic Red River Gorge area in Kentucky.
"The Natural Bridge itself was phenomenal - and offered stunning views."
🎯 Don't confuse with VA bridge
This Natural Bridge is in Kentucky, part of Red River Gorge.
🎟️ Admission Fees
Pay at the Trail Store. Rates vary by age. Annual passes available.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Natural Bridge Arch
Main attraction
A stunning 78-foot sandstone arch offering breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and cliffs.
Sky Lift Ride
Access to the bridge
A scenic and relaxing 20-minute ride up to the bridge, providing great views and an adrenaline rush for some.
Exploring Below the Bridge
Base of the bridge
Walk through huge rocks and find stairs leading down for unique photo opportunities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Know Your Natural Bridge
Ticketing & Trail Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Don't confuse with VA bridge
This Natural Bridge is in Kentucky, part of Red River Gorge.
🎟️ Admission Fees
Pay at the Trail Store. Rates vary by age. Annual passes available.
👟 Trail Variety
Easy path from sky lift, challenging options below bridge.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture stunning views from the top and unique angles from below.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Don't confuse with VA bridge
This Natural Bridge is in Kentucky, part of Red River Gorge.
🎟️ Admission Fees
Pay at the Trail Store. Rates vary by age. Annual passes available.
👟 Trail Variety
Easy path from sky lift, challenging options below bridge.
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture stunning views from the top and unique angles from below.
🍽️ Local Eats
Grab a slice and an Ale 8 at Miguel's if you're in the Red River Gorge area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning Natural Bridge arch and the scenic Sky Lift ride, offering breathtaking views and a relaxing experience. The well-maintained trails are appreciated, though some facilities could use updating. The park is a gem for nature lovers seeking beautiful Kentucky scenery and hiking opportunities.
"We didn't stay at the resort. We went for a day hike to the Natural Bridge. We hiked up, and took the sky lift down. It was so much fun! The hike was wonderful on a very well-maintained trail. The Natural Bridge itself was phenomenal - and offered stunning views. The chair lift going down was peaceful and really lovely. I highly recommend this hike!"
Nancy S
"Wonderful state park with beautiful Kentucky scenery and climate. Great hiking trails and pleasant countryside driving.
Great bar and restaurant.
The rooms and facilities could use some updating, but overall a great place to get back to nature."
Richard Walker
"We really enjoyed the chairlift ride up to the natural bridge, it's very relaxing. Once you exit the lift you can walk across the top of the natural bridge. Look for a set of stairs that will lead you down below the bridge where you'll get some great pictures and get to walk thru two huge rocks --- not as bad as it looks. I would definitely recommend this park 👌"
Pam Gholson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located near Slade, Kentucky, about an hour outside of Lexington. It's part of the Red River Gorge area.
There are two Natural Bridges. This one is in Kentucky, near the Red River Gorge. The other is in Virginia.
You can hike up via several trails, or take the scenic Sky Lift. The Sky Lift offers a relaxing ride and direct access to the top of the bridge.
Yes, the park is within the Red River Gorge area, which offers extensive hiking, boating, and horseback riding. The Kentucky Reptile Zoo is also nearby.
No, you cannot drive directly to the Natural Bridge. You will need to hike or take the Sky Lift from the designated parking areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission is typically charged per person. As of recent information, it was $9/person for ages 13+, $6/person for ages 6-12, and free for children under 6. An annual Virginia State Parks pass can also be purchased.
It's recommended to pay the admission fee at the Trail Store before beginning your hike. Advance booking might be necessary during peak seasons or for specific activities. Check the park's official website for the most current information.
Park hours can vary seasonally. The Sky Lift typically operates during daylight hours. It's best to check the official park website for current operating hours for both the park and the Sky Lift.
Yes, there is a fee for the Sky Lift ride. The cost is usually included in the per-person admission, but it's advisable to confirm pricing upon arrival.
While the park is in Kentucky, the admission fee structure mentioned in one source refers to Virginia State Parks. It's crucial to verify if a Kentucky State Parks pass is applicable or if separate fees apply for this specific park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Original Trail is a popular choice, offering a steep but rewarding hike. For an easier experience, take the Sky Lift and walk the short, level path to the bridge. Exploring below the bridge involves stairs and navigating large rocks.
To see the bridge itself from the top via the Sky Lift and easy path, it can take about an hour. However, to explore below the bridge, hike other trails, or enjoy the surrounding area, plan for at least half a day or a full day.
The park has a lodge with a bar and restaurant. For more casual options, the Red River Gorge area, including Slade, offers various eateries. Miguel's is a popular spot for pizza and drinks.
The terrain varies. The path from the Sky Lift is relatively level. Hiking trails can be steep, rocky, and involve stairs, especially when exploring areas below the arch or to observation points.
Absolutely! The natural sandstone arch, surrounding forests, and panoramic views offer incredible photographic opportunities. The contrast between narrow passages and the open bridge is particularly striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks, as dining options might be limited or busy during peak times.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
+1 The Original Trail is a popular choice for a more challenging ascent, and exploring the areas below the bridge provides unique perspectives and photo opportunities. Beyond the immediate park, the Daniel Boone National Forest offers extensive backcountry hiking. Consider planning a full day or even a weekend to fully immerse yourself in the Appalachian landscape.
+1 Don't forget to check trail conditions and pack essentials like water, snacks, and a map, especially if venturing onto less-traveled paths. 📸 Photographers
+1 Capturing the arch from above after taking the Sky Lift offers sweeping vistas, while descending to the base reveals unique angles and textures, including walking through large rock formations. The Red River Gorge area, of which this park is a part, is known for its abundance of natural arches, offering diverse photographic subjects.
+1 Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for optimal lighting, and be prepared for varying trail conditions if you plan to hike to different vantage points. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Natural Wonders
+1 Visitors can access the bridge via hiking trails or the convenient Sky Lift, which offers a scenic journey and direct access to the top of the arch. Beyond the main bridge, the park invites exploration of its diverse landscape. Trails range from easy, level paths to more challenging routes that lead to viewpoints below the arch or to other natural formations.
The park's location within the Daniel Boone National Forest also provides opportunities for broader outdoor activities like boating and horseback riding. Key Takeaway: While the main Natural Bridge is the star, don't miss the chance to explore the surrounding trails and discover the area's rich geological diversity. The contrast between the intimate trails and the grand scale of the arch is what makes this park so special.
+1The Sky Lift Experience
Upon exiting the Sky Lift, visitors are a short, level walk away from the top of the Natural Bridge.
Pro Tip: Consider the Sky Lift for a convenient and scenic approach to the Natural Bridge, especially if you want to maximize your time exploring the various viewpoints and surrounding trails.
Hiking Trails and Difficulty
The Original Trail is a well-known option that provides a more strenuous hike up to the bridge.
Trails that lead to viewpoints below the bridge or to observation points beyond involve more challenging terrain, including steep inclines and rocky paths. Trail Advice: Always wear appropriate footwear, especially if you plan to explore trails beyond the main path from the Sky Lift.
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