Take This Challenging But Scenic Hike In Kentucky For Incredible Views

When you’re ready for a more challenging hike in Kentucky, it’s fun to find a trail that has a little bit of everything. There are easy, moderate, and difficult hikes throughout Red River Gorge and if you’re looking for something that requires a bit more skill and strength, check out the trail to Cloudsplitter via the Sheltowee Trace Connector. This scenic hike in Kentucky is very popular, as you get to walk past a bridge and will also see a well known swimming area, but the section that takes you to the most incredible views is not the easiest hike in the state, but it comes with a great payoff.

If you've hiked anywhere in Kentucky, chances are you've hiked a portion of Sheltowee Trace. There are many ways to experience it throughout Red River Gorge and one is with this connector trail that leads to an area known as Cloudsplitter. Along the way, you'll first pass this popular swimming spot.

You'll then reach the suspension bridge that continues along a different path. If you want to head to cloudsplitter, explore the bridge, but then head to the left to the connecting trail that begins the more difficult part of the hike.

Parts of this 4-mile, out and back trail are fairly easy and flat, but this section involves some scrambling and even climbing.

To get the best views, you'll need to climb this rope that is permanently attached to the rock. Always be extra careful in this section (and the entire trail) and be sure you are not alone, especially when climbing.

Once you reach the top, the views are incredible. Many believe they are the best views of the Gorge as you can look down to the landscape below and far off into the distance.

This view from the sky shows just how amazing - and dangerous - this trail can be. Only experienced hikers should take this section to cloudsplitter to explore this area.

And there is plenty to explore along the entire trail, from unique rock formations to the Red River, itself.

If you want to avoid the crowds along this popular trail, get started early. You will likely see most of the other hikers stick to the area around the swimming hole and the bridge, but many avid adventures do enjoy the challenge of this scenic hike in Kentucky.

A scenic hike in Kentucky is not difficult to find. In fact, it’s more difficult to choose which one to try this weekend! If you are looking for more challenge on your next adventure, head to Red River Gorge and try a little scrambling to reach those incredible views. And as with all hikes, be extremely cautious and make sure you know what you’re getting into!

For more information, a map, photos, and reviews of the trail, check it out on Alltrails.

And if you’d like to track down some of the best natural bridges and arches in Kentucky, take a look at these 8 scenic spots.

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Cloudsplitter, Scranton, KY 40322, USA

This Scenic Bridge Trail In Kentucky Leads To The Most Incredible Views

Andrea Limke

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