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Technical and scenic, the Rock Garden Trail is unforgettable.


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Map Key

1.5

Miles

2.4

KM

Point to Point

1,269' 387 m

High

950' 290 m

Low

482' 147 m

Up

182' 55 m

Down

8%

Avg Grade (5°)

55%

Max Grade (29°)

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Description

This trail winds it's way through boulders the size of cars up to multi-story apartment buildings that have fallen off the opposing cliffline above. If you are hiking in winter you get a fantastic view of Lovers Leap and the buttress.

From Low Gap head right (south) toward Natural Bridge. Continue up through some insanely steep stairs (think Stairs of Cirith Ungol) that will make you think twice about returning the same way.

At the top of the rock steps the grade eases and you can settle into picking your line through rocks and roots along the edge of a cliff with a few smooth sections interspersed. You'll breathe a sigh of relief when you see the big arch ahead of you.

Flora & Fauna

Amazing grouping of ferns, several protected species of wildflowers, the usual assortment of small woodland creatures and of course amazing towering trees.

Contacts

Shared By:

Chris Chaney

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 11 votes

#1488

Overall
  4.5 from 11 votes
5 Star
64%
4 Star
27%
3 Star
9%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Trail Rankings

#15

in Kentucky

#1,488

Overall
2 Views Last Month
1,335 Since Jul 9, 2015
Intermediate/Difficult Intermediate/Difficult

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Photos

Sunrise from Natural Bridge
Jul 6, 2015 near Campton, KY
Natural Bridge
Jul 9, 2015 near Campton, KY
Walkway to Natural Bridge
Jul 9, 2015 near Campton, KY
View from Natural Bridge
May 10, 2018 near Campton, KY
View from the trail
May 17, 2022 near Campton, KY
View from the trail.
May 17, 2022 near Campton, KY

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