Overview
Natural Bridge is one of the most recognized geological landmarks in Kentucky, a 78-foot sandstone arch that rises 65 feet above the gorge floor and spans across a gap in the ridgeline. The arch was a tourist attraction even before the forest service era, with a railroad spur bringing visitors from Lexington as early as the 1890s. Today the site sits at the intersection of Daniel Boone National Forest and Natural Bridge State Resort Park, managed cooperatively between the two agencies.
The Original Trail is the historic route to the top and remains the most direct path, climbing through rhododendron and hardwood to reach the arch summit with its views south across the ridge system.
The Route
Miles 0.0 to 0.5: Trailhead to Lower Approach
The trail begins at the state park trailhead area and immediately enters a rhododendron tunnel that persists for the first third of the climb. The path is well-maintained with some stone steps on the steeper sections. A trail junction near the base of the arch offers a choice of routes; the Original Trail continues straight.
Miles 0.5 to 1.0: Steep Climb to Arch Level
The trail steepens significantly in the final approach to the arch level, gaining the bulk of its elevation in the last 0.5 mile. Stone steps and a wooden railing assist at the most exposed section. The top of the arch is reached via a short scramble from the trail level.
Miles 1.0 to 1.1: Arch Summit
The top of the arch is a flat sandstone platform roughly 78 feet long. The view south looks across the Torrent Hollow and the ridge beyond. A safety railing runs along the most exposed edge. This is the turnaround point.
Miles 1.1 to 2.1: Descent
Return via the same route. The descent on stone steps requires careful footing, particularly when wet.
When to Hike
April through June is popular for rhododendron blooms that frame the lower trail approach. Peak bloom varies year to year but typically occurs in late May.
October is the busiest period for fall color from the arch summit viewpoint.
December through March brings quieter conditions. Ice on the stone steps near the top requires attention.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry at least 1 liter of water. Water is available at the state park trailhead. Sturdy footwear with good grip is important for the stone steps. A light layer helps at the exposed arch top where wind can be present.
Trailhead Access
Access the trailhead through Natural Bridge State Resort Park off KY-11 near Slade. The state park may charge a parking fee separate from any USFS fee (as of 2026). Restrooms and water are available at the park facilities. The adjacent Hemlock Lodge and cottages offer overnight lodging for those wanting to explore more than one day without camping. Dogs must be leashed.
Nearby
Angel Windows Trail sits a short drive away via Sky Bridge Road and offers a different arch experience in a quieter setting. Gray's Arch Trail provides the forest's most impressive single-arch destination without the state park overlay.
Check conditions and parking status at checking conditions before you go. The state park can fill its parking lot on peak October weekends. Practice Leave No Trace principles, particularly by staying on established surfaces on the arch top where the sandstone edges are fragile.