Family Weekend Exploring a Hidden Gem in KY
But, when some last minute winter weather crashed boondocking plans (hello, we wanted power and heat when snow snuck into the forecast), we made a detour to Red River Gorge, and I am so glad. The beauty of the natural bridge here will forever live on as one of my favorite spots we traveled in the eastern half of the U.S.
My recommendations will make sure you see and taste the best highlights in the area, while still allowing you time to enjoy any other activities to fit the season you're visiting.
Read on for details about a family-friendly trail, a pizza restaurant you won't want to miss, and the best coffee and breakfast spot in town.
Natural Bridge State Resort Park
Have you ever visited a natural bridge? These natural phenoma are just that--truly phenomenal! Natural bridges are archways formed by water erosion. But as you'll see in Red River Gorge, millions of years ago, there must have been tons of water in this area because this natural bridge is huge!
While we visited Natural Bridge State Resort Park in the early spring, you could easily enjoy an adventure here nearly year round. While trails may be slick in winter, you can enjoy a lot of activities nearly year round. Fun to be had includes hiking, canoeing or kayaking, fishing, picnicking, and swimming.
Oh, and I can't forget to mention the skylift to the top of the bridge! While I didn't personally enjoy this experience, opting for the trail views instead, lots of people have raved about it online.
Hiking in Red River Gorge
There are abundant hikes to peruse on AllTrails, but if you're visiting the Gorge for just a weekend, my best recommendation to see the natural bridge is the "Original Natural Bridge Trail via the Lakeside Trail."
While strenuous at times with stairs and some uphill climbs, at 2.5 miles long, our family of 5 (including 3 little kiddos who truly enjoy hiking) loved this hike on a Saturday afternoon.
Start your hike from the lakeside trailhead by first walking over the small suspension bridge. A hit for our family!
Along the way, there is a lot of information about the Civilian Conservation Corps. Plus, our family enjoyed some breaks in the shelters the Corps built.
Red River Gorge is a geological area and there are tons of cool features to admire.
Climbing to the top, there is an option to walk through a canyon "slot." It was narrow, but for us, it added to the adventure.
And the views from the top were stunning. I can imagine how beautiful this must be in summer and fall!
***Please note, we held onto our kids' hands extra tight. There is no barrier along the edges of the bridge.***
Miguel's Pizza Restaurant
After your hike, don't worry about cooking because you have to get pizza at Miguel's!
Going to Miguel's is like going to a friend's house for dinner. You don't have to cook and the atmosphere is so warm and friendly. You're sure to have a good time. Oh yeah, and the pizza is pretty good too! Bonus: they have vegan and gluten free options. Plus great beers on tap if that's your thing.
One of my favorite features is everyone sits community style at big long tables at Miguel's. After you order your pizzas just the way you like them, as well as beers and soft drinks at the counter, they deliver your pies to your table and you can dig in.
We loved the atmosphere of this spot so much, we ate dinner here the 2 nights we were in town.
Daniel Boone Coffee Shop
The Google reviews were so good for this coffee shop that we knew we had to stop for breakfast before moving onto our next road trip stop. I've enjoyed coffee at a lot of places, but Daniel Boone memorably served one of the best dirty chai lattes I've ever had.
They serve breakfast, lunch, hot and cold drinks, plus you can get coffee to make at home as well as little souvenirs.
Places to Stay in Red River Gorge
Our family was towing a 39' fifth wheel when we visited the Gorge, so we stayed at a great RV campground. But there are lots of other great places to stay, depending on the accommodations you're looking for.
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