Natural Bridge State Resort Park: A Review for Parents (and Their Tiny Tyrants) The Natural Bridge State Resort Park is a glorious, massive slab of Kentucky rock that has been perfectly sculpted by nature and is ready to serve as your family's next great adventure—or greatest cardio challenge. It’s truly a fantastic spot for hiking with kids, provided you accept a few simple truths: you will be tired, your children will complain exactly once every 100 feet, and the sky-high views are worth every single tantrum. Forget your gentle park walks; even the "easy" trails here are doing their part to earn you an extra dessert later. The Original Trail (The Direct Route), this is the classic way up to the Natural Bridge. It's a brisk half-mile that translates to 45 minutes of stair-master followed by a child demanding to be carried. However, the moment your kid steps under the massive arch and realizes this is a real-life giant rock tunnel? Total payoff. They'll forget they just threatened to ignore you over a spilled juice box. The Sky Lift (The Parent’s Best Friend), is the cheat code. If you value your knees, your sanity, and your children's silence, take the lift up. The kids think it's an amusement park ride, and you get to coast over the treetops like a victorious, slightly lazy eagle. It drops you near the top, saving you from a significant amount of horizontal and vertical warfare. The brilliance of this place is how it turns your children into tiny, intrepid explorers, even if they were just watching TikTok five minutes ago. Fat Man’s Squeeze is the legendary, incredibly narrow passage near the top. It's not just a trail feature; it's a built-in obstacle course that guarantees screams of both delight and mild terror. Watching your kids squeeze sideways through this natural slot canyon, giggling hysterically, is a core memory. Every inch of this park is designed to encourage your child's inner mountain goat. They will be climbing on every root, touching every piece of moss, and proudly declaring themselves a "rock climbing master" because they managed to hop over a pebble. When you finally get to the lookout point, grab your kid, point them at the endless green mountains, and remind them that they did that. It’s a genuinely cute, proud moment that justifies the three bags of trail mix you had to pack. Natural Bridge State Resort Park is a must-do family hike. It's a gorgeous combination of natural beauty and physical exertion that will leave your kids happy, tired, and smelling faintly of dirt, triumph, and sunscreen. Go for the bridge, stay for the chairlift, and make sure you pack enough water (and patience) for the whole expedition.

What a gem of a state park! It's my first time at a Kentucky SP and what a delightful, beautiful place it is. Lots of challenges were present which made it fun exploring. We were able to complete most of the trails in one day (avid hikers) and I was able to get many lovely pictures despite the cloudy weather.

This was a 3 night stop on our roadtrip loop to the Smokies. The Red River Gorge area is gorgeous. We stayed in the Middle Fork Campground, and the bathrooms were clean and hot water was great! Pics included. (Super important to us when we take our tiny camper.) We did several hikes (list at end) but definitely had to include hiking to Natural Bridge in this park. We started at Hemlock lodge, took the Original Trail up to the arch, walked under it and then left thru Fat Man’s Squeeze, then crossed over the arch. The trail is now Laurel Ridge. Took that to Lookout Point and then kept on going to Devil’s Gulch staircase (we thought this was really cool but it’s a steep rock and man made wood staircase and was damp - wear good shoes, go slow, and hold handrails) down to Battleship Rock trail (left) back to the Original Trail returning us to the lodge. We also did the crystal kayak tour at Underground Gorge and it was worth it. It was a unique experience. No current in the old mine, so paddling was super easy. We hiked: -Gray’s Arch (large & beautiful) -Princess Arch & Chimney Top Rock (Both a super short walk from one parking lot and worth the visit) -Sky Bridge (another cool arch) -Rock Bridge (not as stunning as the others, but still a nice hike) We also drove the scenic byway (KY 77) thru the Nada Tunnel (rock tunnel). Note that Tunnel Ridge Road #39 does NOT, NOT, NOT go thru the tunnel. It goes over it.

The park is beautiful and so clean! Every direction is a view and the view points are the best resting places to enjoy your water and snacks. A lot of stair steps and elevation gain. Walking poles are helpful on the trails in the Natural Bridge Park. Enjoy and keep it clean!

🌲 Natural Bridge State Park: A Scenic Slice of Kentucky Magic 🌉 Visiting Natural Bridge State Park was an unforgettable experience! The highlight, of course, is the awe-inspiring sandstone arch — a natural wonder that truly lives up to its name. The hike up via the Original Trail was moderately challenging but well worth the effort. Once at the top, the panoramic views of the Red River Gorge are absolutely breathtaking.

The natural bridge it's definitely a bridge, looks pretty natural there's a hike up or you can take the chairlift up as well the state park is pretty nice overall nice trails and stuff for sure ive been here lots of times it's fun to visit for sure but usually one of the busier spots probably the biggest arch in the area tho for sure. i also found a cool lil cave here once, that was cool. it had a stream going through it.

Girls trip! This area was a bucket list item. Took a last minute trip with a girl friend. Nature, hiking, good food, good times. Got lucky and got the last reservation in the Resort. It happened to be one of the cabins! 1 bedroom, 2 queen beds, full kitchen, full livingroom and dining room, screen porch with table and chairs. Older interior but sooooo clean! VERY comfortable. The drive up the road to the cabin was a tad creepy but whatever. We were on an adventure! Natural Bridge State Park delivered all that and more! By car, our cabin was a mile from the Hemlock Lodge. By foot and trail it was only .5miles! We discovered trail heads, bridges, small streams, cliffs, critters, free breakfast and coffee at the Lodge! Score! There are multiple trailheads close to the Lodge. Well maintained trails, friendly park rangers, no bears that day!

Incredible place! Their collection of venomous snakes is extraordinary! It was very cool to learn about the snakes and the exceptional research opportunities this zoo provides the medical field through the extraction and studying of the venom. The other animals were also neat to look at and learn about. The gift shop had adorable souvenirs! We would definitely recommend a stop here while visiting Red River Gorge!

Little big pricey for what it is, but we traveled with a 9yo, 7yo, 4yo, and 2yo and it was a heat advisory day, so it was a nice little trip that they all enjoyed! It wouldn't be something for repeat visits necessarily, but I would definitely recommend it for families visiting with small kids!

Amazing experience! So many amazing animals. I especially loved the venomous section. Plus, it is a wonderful cause contributing to medical research. All of the staff we met were so kind, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable. I also adore the embroidered bag I bought.

Came highly recommended from family members and it will not disappoint. If you are a reptile lover venomous and non-venomous this is just a place to check out. A phenomenal variety to view Gators Turtles check out the website for more details

Cool place to check out if you in the area. It’s real small and you can see everything it has to offer in about 15min. I think the coast to get in is a little high but there is some cool snakes to see

It was really interesting! We enjoyed our tour and especially watching the venom collection demonstration. I highly recommend a visit! The staff were knowledgeable and made our tour fun.

Great place to learn about reptiles! We had a great time. The grandkids loved it. It was pricey per person, but if you consider it a donation to help with their work of harvesting venom for helping others, then it's all good. Thanks for all you do!

Nad weather was coming in, so we didn't get a chance to do the mini golf. Nice little gift shop. Staff polite. We did do the animal petting zoo. A bit pricey, treats for the animals were low cost.

We had a great time! The gift shop has a lot of very nice souvenirs at decent prices. Highly recommend a round of mini golf and shopping.

Very nice experience. Dustin was very knowledgeable about the cave, and Ray took great pictures 📸!

Very cool golf course with waterfalls. Wish it had a little more shade but overall a really cool place to check out. They even have souvenirs.

The mini golf course was beautiful! It was challenging and lots of fun. There were leaves on the course but during our play someone came out and blew the course off! The staff inside the souvenir shop were not very professional.

Visited here twice over a 4 day trip to the area. My 2 sons and wife both enjoyed it. My wife isn’t much into golf but she got a picture frame and shirt from the gift shop which has some nice options. Recommended stop

We took the boat tour and wished we had been able to do the Kayaks. Nothing wrong with the tour we personally would have enjoyed the kayaks more.

The gift shop is SMALL on a busy day you're not going to have much room to move (parents really need to help kids with personal space) other than that the place is well kept, the employees are nice, they get you through the line quickly. Was a bit taken back with the cost change in the sky lift. It is now $17.00 for a round trip, but with the trend of everything else rising. However, the cost is ABSOLUTELY WORTH IT on the hot and humid days, for those who can't do uphill hiking. The ride was smooth. The ride up takes longer than the ride down.

🎿 Sky Lift in Red River Gorge: A Ride to the Top with a View You Won’t Forget ⛰️ If you want the beauty of Natural Bridge without the steep hike, the Sky Lift is the way to go. This relaxing open-air ride takes you straight up the mountain, offering stunning views of the gorge as you float through the treetops. It’s peaceful, scenic, and perfect for all ages. At the top? A short walk to the iconic Natural Bridge—and all the photo ops your heart desires. Whether you’re resting your legs or just in it for the views, the Sky Lift is a fun, easy way to soak in the magic of RRG.

Price was more than decent. Experience was breathtaking! The physical part (hike) was a little unexpected but entirely optional. I am not in the best shape, but it was with every minute! Friendly and very helpful staff, as well!

The sky lift was fun! The weight limit per lift is 500lbs which is doesn't say on the site. It was a blast and scary. Also a cool scrunchy rock.

We loved this. So relaxing and loved the views from the natural bridge. The gift shop has super cute stuff and drinks for when you come back down

The ride takes about 20 minutes. It's an excellent way to get to the too to see the natural bridge. You can walk across the bridge and walk out to another point so that you can view the bridge. If it's hot out, make sure to take some water with you.

The sky lift is an easy and fun activity that is exciting and brings you to the top of the natural bridge.

Hands down one of the most educational and fun activities to do with your children while visiting Red River Gorge! The staff member who helped us was so knowledgeable and friendly. The kids (and the adults) learned a lot about rocks, minerals, and gems. The sifting bucket was very cool and the kids treasured their finds! The gift shop is beautiful, as well. Don’t pass this place by while visiting The Gorge! Thanks for a wonderful time!

Absolutely loved our visit to The Earth Shop. Truly a hidden gem! From the moment we walked in, the employees made us feel so welcome. The artwork for sale was beautiful and unique, and the quality of the gems (at such a fair price!) blew us away. We had a blast panning for gems and were amazed at how many treasures we found. Thank you for the education, the hospitality, and a memorable experience! We’ll definitely be back.

We stopped here today because my daughter has always loved rocks/gems. She decided to do the $35 bucket and was not disappointed. The staff were amazing and so friendly. One of them even shared my birthday (why we were in the area) and gave me a cupcake to celebrate. The gentleman who explained the process of shifting to find the stones was also kind and put in a few extras for my birthday along with helping me pick out my "rock friend". This is "Broot". I would highly recommend a stop here if you are looking for unique artwork and friendly people with wonderful customer service.

This is a fantastic store with great selection and prices. The owner is am amazing artist. Love this stop!! ❤️

This store is the best one in the RRG and Natural Bridge area. It is full of beautiful gemstones and gifts. The staff was so friendly and helpful. The highlight of our visit was the gem mining experience for the grandchildren. You can choose from differently priced buckets full sand and gems. The kids use sifters in a water trough to find their treasures. They come away with a bag full of gems. Thanks for a great visit!

We had a great time here, the guy working was super nice we did the $35 gem buckets and our kids loved it and got a ton of gems. This experience made my daughters birthday trip unforgettable.

It has beautiful art and gems! I spent almost a hundred dollars on art and other nice items. The vibe was on point. The lady checking me and 2 others after me out wasn't friendly at all! I said "Hello how are you?" She said nothing! I thanked her after checking my items out and .. nothing! Poor customer service.

A treasure trove of surprising collectibles and super cute kitschy souvenirs with the BEST fudge you have ever tasted! The proprietress is gracious, and we have visited this store for several years without fail now. If you are looking for unique items, good shirts and wonderful fudge this is just a great spot.

This store has been a staple of my family's for years. We love stopping by on our way back to visit my grandmother. While I love the candy, my Mom and sister always explore and purchase an obscene amount of Christmas ornaments or Dept 56. Mom collects them and now we collect the Halloween Village, so we try to stop in. We've gone by several times when they're not in season. This is a hidden gem.

Really great fudge, which earns the 5 stars. The actual "peddler" part is mostly untrue at this point though; it's obvious they don't put any effort into the gift shop part of the business anymore. That's fine; there's obviously a lot of love and care going into the fudge.

Cute little place with a very sweet lady working! And some amazing fudge! I loved the pumpkin pie fudge and caramel apple fudge. My husband loved the creamy peanut butter and rocky road!

Very nice elderly couple inside. Great fudge. Mostly Christmas collectables but its very impressive. Whole wall of Halloween and small section of harry potter collectables. A nice section of t shirts and souvenirs for red river gorge or natural bridge. Lots of ceramics and wooden stuff.

They have amazing fudge! Would high y recommend and great customer service. I enjoyed talking to the people whose I assume are the owners! Very cute store

We love Red River Gorge and we love this fudge. Must stop in. Ladies are so nice.

The views are amazing. Saw plenty of people to close to the edges of the cliff. A group of college kids were loud and rude. But other wise it's an amazing hike. Go early on the weekend as the forest ranger will shut the road down

Beautiful half day hike if you do the full loop to Courthouse rock and double arch. I wouldn't recommend for small children as many rocks to climb and stairs that might make it more dangerous for them. Drop offs along the Ridgeline. Breathtaking views though!

It's a spectacular natural wonder - the Red River Gorge. Hiking on the spine of a ridge (Auxier Ridge) is even more exciting. Awesome vistas on both sides. As you get out towards the end, you'll really feel your own smallness as you gaze in wonder at all of the natural beauty. One important tip - bring plenty of water - during sunny days, it gets hot on top of the ridge. We went in the early Fall around an 80-degree day and drank copious amounts of water. At the end of the ridge, there is a staircase that takes you down into the valley next to the ridge. For the hike back to the parking lot, we took the valley route - the Courthouse Trail - this one should be considered moderate to strenuous. Some very steep grades as well as rock scrambles on the sides of the ridge. Instead of out-and-back on the ridge, this adds another mile to your hike. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed it!

What an awesome hike. So many great vantage points for scenic viewing.

Did the whole loop. It is gorgeous, maybe the best hike in the gorge

Was going to Auxier Ridge at 1130am on a Sunday in October but got stopped by Park Rangers because of lack of parking, so did Pinch Em Tight and Gray's Arch first, then went here around 1:30pm. The out-and-back detour to Double Arch is well worth it. Very windy on the ridge. Could have explored a lot more around Courthouse Rock - saw some people on top of it but getting there didn't look safe and I anyway had good views all around, so skipped it and stuck to the trail. 7-mile loop covering Double Arch, then Courthouse Rock, then the ridge back to the trailhead. 1200 ft elevation gain and took me around 2.5 hours. Definitely worth doing if you are in the area.

Beautiful views narrow trail, overlook is fairly quick to see on the hike