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An easy walk to one of the best views in the area.


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Map Key

0.6

Miles

1.0

KM

Out and Back

1,189' 362 m

High

1,131' 345 m

Low

58' 18 m

Up

58' 18 m

Down

3%

Avg Grade (2°)

5%

Max Grade (3°)

Dogs Unknown

Features Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Family Friendly An easy, short trail with some awesome reward.

Overview

This is a short, easy walk to a stunning view. The trail ends atop a sandstone pillar with a commanding view of the Red River Gorge and surrounding valleys. From here, one can see multiple sandstone cliffs and outcroppings. This is not to be missed!

Need to Know

This is a very popular area, expect a crowd.

Description

Turn off on the gravel access road and drive to the end. From the parking lot follow the well-marked trail to the west. The parking area is well-maintained with picnic areas and latrines. The trail is off to the west and well-marked. Due to the popularity of this overlook, the trail is actually paved. The walk itself is as easy as a city sidewalk and may be accessible to wheelchairs.

The view at the end is amazing! The valley is laid out before you on three sides as you stand on top of a sandstone pillar. The pillar is fenced off and there are several places to sit and enjoy the view.

Upon your return, be sure to check out the Princess Arch Trail to the east.

Contacts

Shared By:

Mike Embry

Trail Ratings

  4.4 from 22 votes

#680

Overall
  4.4 from 22 votes
5 Star
59%
4 Star
23%
3 Star
14%
2 Star
5%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#3

in Kentucky

#680

Overall
12 Views Last Month
7,577 Since May 29, 2015
Easy Easy

76%
5%
19%
0%
0%
0%

Photos

View of Chimney Top overlook from across the valley
Jul 14, 2015 near Frenchburg, KY
Chimney Top, seen from the valley
May 29, 2015 near Frenchburg, KY
View from the end of Chimney Top trail.
Jan 5, 2022 near Frenchburg, KY
View from the overlook at Chimney Top Rock
Jul 14, 2015 near Frenchburg, KY

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Add Your Check-In

Check-Ins

Oct 1, 2023
Morgan Jackson
Out and Back 0.8mi
May 5, 2023
Cm Schnet
Oct 11, 2022
Chelsea Frederick
Walked with Aunt Kris, Uncle Brian, Jake, and Kellen 0.6mi
Jul 26, 2022
Chris Pliley
May 21, 2022
Jonathan Wrieden
Mar 15, 2022
Lee Marbach
0.6mi — 0h 16m
Jun 17, 2021
Jack Lichwa
Jun 17, 2021
Mychajlo Johnson
Simple trail with a fantastic view! 1.2mi — 1h 00m
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