This 5-Mile Loop Trail Has The Best Views In Red River Gorge In Kentucky

Kentucky is a hiker’s heaven; our blue hills, myriad rivers, and stunning geological formations providing the most breathtaking backdrops for a hike. And Red River Gorge is one of the state’s most beloved hiking spots. There are well over 60 miles of mapped trails throughout the Gorge, each of which offers hikers a different experience of this natural wonder. One of our favorite hikes in Red River Gorge is actually the combination of two different trails. For the best views of Red River Gorge in Kentucky, combine the Auxier Ridge and Courthouse Rock trails into one easy, five-mile loop trail.

Hiking to Courthouse Rock is one of those things that's on any Kentucky adventurer's bucket list.

To access this iconic formation, you'll follow Auxier Ridge Trail #204, a 2.1-mile climb where views of Double Arch, Haystack Rock, Courthouse Rock, Raven Rock, and other views of the Red River Gorge are numerous.

Sheer cliffs extend on both sides of the ridge, so this hike may not be the best for those wary of heights!

The views are worth it, however. (And yes -- this trail is dog friendly!)

The Auxier Ridge Trail ends at the junction with Courthouse Rock Trail #202.

At Courthouse Rock, hikers can either return to the parking area by retracing their steps, or continue on along the Courthouse Rock Trail.

This trail passes back down through the forest, below high cliffs and across babbling springs that feed into Auxier Branch.

Portions of the trail are quite narrow and craggy at times.

This portion of the trail features some remarkable geological formations that really are unique to The Bluegrass State.

In life, we are constantly confronted with choices. But this one? It's easy.

Opt to extend your trek in this scenic Red River Gorge hike. We promise, the views are well-worth it.

Have you hiked this Red River Gorge loop trail before? Aren’t the views fantastic? If you give it a go, be sure to tag us on Instagram at #OnlyInKentucky to share your photos from this scenic trek!

Red River Gorge really is the perfect Bluegrass State day trip — here are some more ideas for recreation at Kentucky’s own Grand Canyon!

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Auxier Ridge Trailhead, Tunnel Ridge Rd, Stanton, KY 40380, USA

Courthouse Rock, Kentucky 40380, USA

This 5-Mile Loop Trail Offers Some Of The Best Views In Red River Gorge In Kentucky

Sarah McCosham

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