Kentucky truly is an outdoor lover’s paradise. Home to a diverse landscape that includes canyons, rivers, waterfalls, forests, and rock formations, the hiking in Kentucky is extraordinary. Even better? You don’t have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the trails, as some of our state’s best hikes are short, sweet, and super accessible. The Princess Arch Trail is one such trek. Less than a mile long and packed with spectacular scenery, this might be the easiest hike in Kentucky!

Kentucky is known for its striking rock formations and natural arches, and while many, like Natural Bridge and Sky Bridge, are well-known, there are many more formations in the Bluegrass to discover.
Rick Smith/AllTrails
Princess Arch is one such wonder. As its name suggests, Princess Arch is extremely beautiful and truly one of Kentucky's geological crown jewels. It spans 32 feet and appears in the forest almost out of nowhere, like magic.
Jayna M. Day/AllTrails
What makes this arch even more wonderful is how very accessible it is. This isn't a princess stuck in a high tower to only admire from afar; no, Princess Arch is a breathtaking beauty to behold up close.
Miriam R./AllTrails

Related Stories

14 Fascinating Things You Probably Didn't Know About Mammoth Cave In Kentucky

14 Fascinating Things You Probably Didn't Know About Mammoth Cave In Kentucky

 The Native American Burial Site Found In Kentucky Is A Historical Wonder

The Native American Burial Site Found In Kentucky Is A Historical Wonder

 This Kentucky State Park Is Home To One Of The Rarest Natural Phenonemons In The World, And You Have To See It

This Kentucky State Park Is Home To One Of The Rarest Natural Phenonemons In The World, And You Have To See It
The eponymous Princess Arch Trail is a 0.6-mile out-and-back trail in the heart of Red River Gorge. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 17 min to complete... but the views are worth stopping to savor.
makensee hartman/AllTrails
The trail itself is well-marked and well-traveled, and you'll likely encounter other hikers along the way. The forest scenery is lush and lovely, and the way the sunlight filters through the trees and dances on the rocks will absolutely enchant you.
D. L. B./AllTrails
While the titular arch is the focal point of this easy hike, there is so much beauty to experience along the way, including other fanciful formations and rocks.
William Redifer/Google Local
The trail itself has a total elevation gain of just 104 feet, but somehow, by some sort of magic, you'll be treated to views like this along the way!
Alli Barrows/AllTrails
Short, sweet, scenic, and accessible, the Princess Arch Trail might well be the easiest hike in Kentucky -- and one worth adding to your list.

Have you hiked the Princess Arch Trail before? What a marvelously accessible hike in Kentucky.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Kentucky

Featured Addresses
Princess Arch Trailhead, Pine Ridge, KY 41360, USA