Scenic overlooks are scattered throughout Kentucky and are an excellent way to view our natural features from a distance. Some of these overlooks are just steps from your car and offer paved paths that are wheelchair and stroller accessible. One such place is the overlook at the Natural Arch in Kentucky. This designated scenic area is a must for outdoor lover’s and if you want to continue the adventure, take the short hike out to the arch and walk right through it on this family-friendly hiking trail in Kentucky.
The Natural Arch Scenic Area is a beautiful portion of Daniel Boone National Forest, not far from Whitley City.
Alltrails/Laura Broughton The popular picnic area makes for a great stop to enjoy lunch, rest for a bit, and take the short, paved walk to the overlook shown above. While many people stop at this point, you can get an up close look with just a short hike.
The trail to the arch begins at the parking lot and picnic area, where you’ll begin along a dirt path.
Alltrails/Jennifer Brehm The trail also connects with other trails in the area, so you can stick to the mile-long hike to Natural Arch or choose to extend your adventure.
As you wind through the woods, you’ll eventually make it to the base of the arch.
Alltrails/Mike Keltner If you’d like, you can stop here and turn around if you’re in a hurry, or choose to continue on and up, under the arch.
There are quite a few stairs that take you up to the arch, so keep that in mind.
Alltrails/Karl Tiedemann But it’s such a unique and scenic experience that the climb is worth it. It’s even more impressive up close than from the overlook near the parking lot.
Climb up the stairs and walk right under the arch, which isn’t always possible with other natural arches in Kentucky.
Alltrails/Sarah Gregory Take time to look up and admire the size and history of this arch. You can then continue on to the other side to extend your adventure.
A dirt path and more stairs are on the other side of the arch, which will take you down and around and then eventually back to the original trail.
Alltrails/Rachel Feldman This is also where you can link up with Trail #508, which adds a few miles to your trip but does meet back up with the Natural Trail Arch. A map of the area can be found on the trail’s USDA site, linked below.
The Natural Arch in Kentucky is a popular destination in Kentucky for good reason.
Alltrails/Alicia Bullock From scenic overlooks to hiking right under the arch itself, this fairly easy, family-friendly hike in Kentucky deserves a spot on your outdoor adventure bucket list.
While there are many natural arches and bridges in our state, this particular Natural Arch in Kentucky is a favorite. With an accessible overlook and then a scenic hiking trail to walk right through it, everyone can enjoy a visit to this natural wonder in Kentucky. Have you been to the Natural Arch Scenic Area in McCreary County? What is your favorite natural arch or bridge in Kentucky? Let us know in the comments!
Alltrails/Laura Broughton
The popular picnic area makes for a great stop to enjoy lunch, rest for a bit, and take the short, paved walk to the overlook shown above. While many people stop at this point, you can get an up close look with just a short hike.
Alltrails/Jennifer Brehm
The trail also connects with other trails in the area, so you can stick to the mile-long hike to Natural Arch or choose to extend your adventure.
Alltrails/Mike Keltner
If you’d like, you can stop here and turn around if you’re in a hurry, or choose to continue on and up, under the arch.
Alltrails/Karl Tiedemann
But it’s such a unique and scenic experience that the climb is worth it. It’s even more impressive up close than from the overlook near the parking lot.
Alltrails/Sarah Gregory
Take time to look up and admire the size and history of this arch. You can then continue on to the other side to extend your adventure.
Alltrails/Rachel Feldman
This is also where you can link up with Trail #508, which adds a few miles to your trip but does meet back up with the Natural Trail Arch. A map of the area can be found on the trail’s USDA site, linked below.
Alltrails/Alicia Bullock
From scenic overlooks to hiking right under the arch itself, this fairly easy, family-friendly hike in Kentucky deserves a spot on your outdoor adventure bucket list.
For more information on the trail to reach the arch, including directions, visit the USDA website.
And for another natural arch that’s worth a visit, check out this spot within the Big South Fork Scenic Area.
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