With so many exciting hiking trails throughout Kentucky, you really can’t go wrong when you decide to hit the trails. If you’re doing some hiking around Red River Gorge, you certainly do not have a shortage of adventures from which to choose, and one that many enjoy is the portion of Sheltowee Trace that winds through the area. This scenic trail in Kentucky is actually a total of 333 miles long, but you’ll only have to travel along a couple of them to experience the beauty and fun this trail has to offer.

Sheltowee Trace is an outdoor lover's dream come true as it winds for miles and miles through our beautiful state.
Alltrails/John Gray
While most people do not hike the entire 333 miles, many hikers do come across portions of it while on their adventures in Kentucky. This section through Red River Gorge is particularly special and popular.
The trail is marked with these symbols and you'll want to look for them as you explore.
Alltrails/Allen Wilson
This section of the trail is about 12 miles point to point, but you do not have to hike the entire thing to experience its best features.
The trail is rated moderate and dogs are allowed when kept on a leash.
Alltrails/Joe Harlemert
Don't be scared off by the 12-mile description of this trail, because you can easily just hike a couple miles and still see quite a bit. That means that all ages will enjoy this trek in the woods.

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Not long after beginning the hike, you'll come across this popular swimming hole and jumping rock.
Alltrails/Jose Martinez
You do have to make your way to this spot, but it's a lovely place to rest for a bit and even cool off. It can get crowded in the hot summer months and also always exercise extreme caution when swimming in this area. While you will see people jump from the rock, it's not recommended.
Continue along the trail and soon you'll come to this scenic suspension bridge.
Alltrails/Patrick O'Dowd
Bridges always add character to hiking trails and this one is no exception.
The beginning of this trail follows along the Red River and at this point, you'll have the opportunity to cross it.
Alltrails/Sherlock Stinkaluffagus
Take your time and enjoy the whimsical experience of crossing a suspension bridge in the middle of the woods and definitely take in the scenery as you walk along it. At this point, if you were looking for a short walk, you can always turn around, or keep going for even more adventure and natural beauty.
The rest of the trail features beautiful rock formations, views, and the beauty Red River Gorge is known for.
Alltrails/Jim Adams
You can make this an hour-long outing or an entire day of adventure. Either way, add this scenic trail in Kentucky to your outdoor bucket list for the Bluegrass State.

If you’ve always wanted to hike along the Sheltowee Trace, consider this section of scenic trail in Kentucky. Take a dip in a swimming hole and walk across an exciting suspension bridge, all located in just a short portion of this out and back hike in Red River Gorge. Have you hiked this trail and checked out this popular swimming hole? What other suspension bridge trails in Kentucky do you love? Let us know in the comments!

For more information, including directions and a map of this scenic trail in Kentucky, visit its Alltrails website.

And for another unique bridge in Kentucky, check out this one that’s underground and inside a cave that you can tour!

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