Natural Bridge Trail at Natural Bridge State Resort Park

Natural Bridge State Resort Park is a Kentucky state park at 2135 Natural Bridge Rd in Slade, in the Red River Gorge region of eastern Kentucky, about 135 miles (217 km) east of Louisville. The drive takes roughly 2 hours 20 minutes, and access is by car only, so it is best treated as a long day trip or an overnight stay at the park's lodge. Park entry was listed as free, but visitors should confirm trail and lodge status at parks.ky.gov or by calling the park at 606-663-2214.

The Natural Bridge Trail runs about 0.75 mile (1.2 km) one way to the sandstone arch, so the round trip is around 1.5 miles and takes one to two hours. The trail climbs steeply, gaining several hundred feet through forest, with stairs and rocky sections along the way, which makes it moderate despite the short distance. A seasonal Sky Lift also reaches the arch area, and visitors should confirm whether it is operating. The surface is a mix of dirt, rock and constructed steps, and it can be slippery when wet. Tree cover is mostly continuous, giving shade for the ascent, while the arch and overlooks are more open.

The main landmark is the natural sandstone arch itself, which spans the ridge and is the park's namesake. The arch and its adjoining overlook make the natural turn-around point, and hikers can return by the same route. Water and restrooms are generally available near the trailhead and lodge but not along the climb, so hikers carry water. Sturdy shoes with grip are important, particularly after rain or in leaf-fall season, and a camera is useful for the gorge views. March to May and September to November offer the most comfortable conditions, with spring wildflowers and fall color drawing the largest crowds, so weekday visits are quieter.