This Little-Known Trail Is Quite Possibly The Best Hiking Path In Kentucky
By Will Suphan|Published December 14, 2023
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Will Suphan
Author
Will has been living in Arizona off and on for 30+ years in the Phoenix Metro and Tucson areas. He has traveled all over the state as well as having lived all over the Southwest. He's been writing for OnlyInYourState for one year and has previously written for Digital Journal. Will has a passion for travel and writing and combining the two is what he loves most. He loves solo international travel and has been to Thailand, France, Japan, and Cambodia.
Natural Bridge State Resort Parkis teeming with gorgeous hiking trails that are quite popular and lead to stunning views. How would you like to hike a trail that’s little-known and still affords you equally splendid views? The Sand Gap Loop in Kentucky is uncrowded and utterly spectacular with so much natural beauty. Let’s take a closer look at what may be the best hiking path in Kentucky.
The Sand Gap Loop Trail begins just a short walk from Hemlock Lodge Road by the Natural Bridge Sky Lift just off Natural Bridge Road. It’s a 9.5-mile loop trail that is considered moderately challenging and takes about four hours to complete.
The cool thing about this trail is that it’s not only lesser-known, but it affords the same amazing views and gets you to some of the best attractions in the park -- all within a few short hours. In short, this trail in Kentucky makes for a perfect day trek.
One of the best features of this park is the Natural Bridge itself. It’s 75 feet across and 65 feet high! Several other trails intersect here, so make sure to check with AllTrails to stay on the right path.
Overlooks like this are a special treat that you’ll find along this trail. As you can see, fall is a wonderful time to come here so you can see so many vivid colors far into the distance.
The otherworldly rock formations here are quite mesmerizing, with striations and patterns that really catch the eye. It looks like a planet from a sci-fi movie.
This view alone is worth the trek. I’d say it’s time to put on those hiking boots, fill up your canteen, and bring a friend along to explore this absolute hidden gem of a trail.
Have you ever hiked the Sand Gap Loop in Kentucky? If so, let us know how it was for you in the comments. If you’d like to explore more wonderful trails and would like something a bit less strenuous, check out these easy hikes in Kentucky. Be sure to check with AllTrailsto ensure that they’re open and to get the most current updates.
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