If you’re heading to Red River Gorge, it will almost certainly include a hike to the Natural Bridge.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park contains some awesome scenery. You have your pick from winding trails and quick scenic walks to more rugged treks. All difficulty levels are covered and you can hike something totally different every day you’re visiting.

The most famous hike is to the Natural Bridge. This 1 – 1.5 mile uphill hike isn’t too challenging. There is parking right where the trailhead starts if you can find a spot, and from there, the hike is only 1 mile to the top.

To get to the top you have squeeze through two rock formations that are super close together – which is why “The Squeezer”.

The Natural Bridge is really cool. You can walk under and over the bridge.

If you can’t or don’t want to hike, you can take the Skylift to the top. It’s $17 for a round trip lift for adults or $14/kids ages 4-12. You can get a one way ticket for $11.

Many people take the chairlift up and hike down. Pro tip for this option though – you may end up a mile or so away from your car/parking lot, so take note.

Other cool hikes include: Henson’s Arch, Hopewell Arch, Copperas Falls, Indian Staircase and Gray’s Arch Trail.

One of the coolest parts about exploring the Red River Gorge isn’t even the hiking – it’s the drive into the area.

To really get into the heart of the gorge, you’ll likely pass through this narrow one-lane tunnel carved straight through the rock. It’s officially the Nada Tunnel, but a lot of people have nicknamed it “Gateway to the Gorge.”

It’s a little dramatic in the best way.

You slow down, maybe wait your turn if another car’s coming, and then suddenly you’re driving through solid stone with barely any space on either side.

And when you come out the other end? It kind of feels like you’ve officially arrived somewhere different – like the trip just shifted into adventure mode.

It’s quick, quirky and super memorable – exactly the kind of small moment that makes a place feel unique.

Yes, a trip to Kentucky should involve going into a cave. Level up the experience by doing it at Red River Gorge – with the glow kayak tour.

If you’re looking for something that makes your trip feel a little more unforgettable, Gorge Underground is it.

Picture this: instead of paddling a river, you’re floating through a flooded undeground mine – yes, inside a cave – right in the heart of the Red River Gorge.

The water is completely still, the ceilings are towering above you, and the only light comes from your headlamp and glowing LED lights under your kayak.

The kayaks themselves are crystal clear (glass bottomed) so as you drift along, the water beneath you lights up neon.

Quiet, surreal, magical. You don’t wanna miss this.

And then there’s the food – because somehow, even in the middle of the woods – the eats hit.

You’re not getting big chains or fancy downtown vibes, but you are getting laid-back, post-hike “this tastes amazing because I earned it” kind of meals.

If you ask anyone where to go first, they’ll probably send you straight to Miguel’s Pizza. It’s basically a rite of passage. It has build your own pizzas, picnic tables, and a super casual, buzzing energy.

For something a little more low-key and local, try Red River Rockhouse.

The BEST burgers, delicious tacos and other comfort food with a creative twist, all served up in a colorful, artsy little spot.