Hike to Natural Bridge and Battleship Rock

This popular hike begins near the state park gift shop and has options to continue to other trails at multiple points. The first .75 miles, starting at about 800 feet, is the hike up to the Natural Bridge. This portion of the hike contains basically all of the increase in elevation. As you hike up, you will become completely immersed in the Daniel Boone National Forest, which covers the Red River Gorge and surrounding hills in Eastern Kentucky. Despite the popularity of this area, there are plenty of opportunities to see wildlife. After reaching the bridge you will be able to climb a carved staircase to the top.

Once you finish taking in the view from the top of the bridge, you can continue across it to the Battleship Rock Trail. While on this trail, you will walk along the peak of the gorge, at about 1200 feet, for .3 miles. passing the Skylift along the way. Once you reach Battleship Rock you will be able to see both the lake and the Natural Bridge. This was the point at which I had to turn back to the trailhead but, if you have more time available, there are 2 additional trails connecting to the Battleship Rock Trail as well as the numerous other trails in the park. The views from both the Bridge and Battleship Rock are incredible, and when the leaves are changing it is arguably one of the best places in Kentucky to visit.

The park itself offers a wide range of adventure opportunities, from kayaking and camping to some of the best rock climbing in the eastern United States. Don't forget to try some Miguel's Pizza at the end of your day!