Natural Bridge State Resort Park
Natural Bridge State Resort Park showcases one of nature’s most spectacular creations—a massive 78-foot sandstone arch towering 65 feet above the forest floor. This Kentucky gem offers the Hemlock Lodge with balcony views, 11 cottages, a scenic Skylift to the arch, over 22 miles of hiking trails, and dining at the Sandstone Arches restaurant. It’s a geological wonder in the heart of Red River Gorge country!
🚡 2026 Skylift Season
- Weekends only: March 1 – April 1
- Daily: April – late October
- Closed: December – February
- Hours: 10am – 6pm (7pm on busy days)
- Cost: $13 adults / $10 children
The Natural Bridge
| Arch Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📏 Length | 78 feet |
| 📐 Height | 65 feet |
| 🪨 Material | Rockcastle conglomerate sandstone |
| 📅 Age | ~270 million years (rock) |
| 💨 Formation | Wind & water erosion |
Skylift
| Skylift Info | Details |
|---|---|
| ⏱️ Ride Duration | 11 minutes (1 mile) |
| 📍 Drops You | 600 feet from the arch! |
| 💵 Adults | $13 |
| 👶 Children | $10 |
| 🎁 Gift Shop | At base of Skylift |
Hemlock Lodge & Cottages
| Lodging | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏨 Hemlock Lodge | 35 rooms with balconies |
| 🏠 Cottages | 11 (1-2 bedrooms) |
| 📅 Open | Year-round |
| 🐕 Pets | Allowed in lodge + cottages |
| 💰 From | $85.95/night (2 adults) |
Sandstone Arches Restaurant
| Restaurant | Details |
|---|---|
| 🍽️ Location | Hemlock Lodge |
| ⏰ Meals | Breakfast, lunch, dinner |
22 Miles of Trails
| Trail Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 📏 Total Miles | 22 |
| 🥾 To the Arch | 7 different routes (0.5–7.5 miles) |
| 🐕 Pets | Whittleton Trail only (USFS) |
| 🚫 Off-Trail | Strictly prohibited! |
Camping
| Campground | Details |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Status (2026) | Closed until March 12, 2026 |
| 📅 Typical Season | Spring – Fall |
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is the Natural Bridge?
The Rockcastle conglomerate sandstone that forms the bridge was deposited approximately 270 million years ago. The arch itself formed over thousands of years through wind and water erosion. It spans 78 feet long and stands 65 feet high—one of the most impressive natural arches east of the Rockies!
Do I have to hike to see the bridge?
No! The Skylift takes you on an 11-minute, one-mile journey up the mountain, dropping you just 600 feet from the arch. It operates daily April–October and weekends in March. However, there are also 7 different hiking trails to the top ranging from 0.5 to 7.5 miles.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Pets are NOT allowed on most park hiking trails. However, dogs are welcome on the Whittleton Trail, which is managed by the U.S. Forest Service rather than the state park. Pets ARE allowed in the Hemlock Lodge and cottages.
Is lodging available year-round?
Yes! The Hemlock Lodge (35 rooms with balconies) and 11 cottages are open year-round. Rates start at $85.95/night. The lodge houses the Sandstone Arches restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Both lodge and cottages are pet-friendly.
When does the campground open in 2026?
The campground is listed as closed through March 12, 2026. It typically operates spring through fall. Check the Kentucky State Parks website for exact reopening dates and reservation availability.
🌄 Kentucky’s Geological Wonder
Ride the Skylift to a 270-million-year-old sandstone arch, stay in a mountain lodge, and explore 22 miles of trails in Red River Gorge country. Visit the official Natural Bridge State Resort Park website for 2026 lodge reservations and Skylift hours.
