Double Arch Trail (Red River Gorge) Hiking Guide
Double Arch is named for its two openings in one sandstone formation, and the trail reaches it from the same Tunnel Ridge Road trailhead as Auxier Ridge. AllTrails describes the route through old-growth forest with wide views of the surrounding cliffs and rock formations. This is the Red River Gorge Double Arch in Kentucky, not the one in Arches National Park.
Route and Distance
AllTrails gives the out-and-back at 4.7 miles with 587 feet of gain, about two to two and a half hours. Footing is a mix of dirt path and gravel, with rocky and muddy patches where traction matters. The Forest Service lists Double Arch Trail #201 at 2.5 miles in its trail table; AllTrails measures its route from the Auxier Ridge trailhead parking, so the two figures don't describe exactly the same walk.
Making It a Loop
Strong hikers often combine Double Arch with Courthouse Rock and Auxier Ridge. AllTrails puts that loop at 6.2 miles and 1,043 feet of gain, with several sustained climbs and descents. It ends on the gated section of Tunnel Ridge Road, a walk on closed gravel road back to the lot. Save the loop for a day with plenty of light.
Parking on Tunnel Ridge Road
Drive east on KY 15 from Slade to Tunnel Ridge Road and follow it to the end of the drivable section. Parking is allowed only in the designated, signed lots; the Forest Service bans roadside parking along the road. The road crosses over Nada Tunnel rather than meeting KY 77, so don't expect a shortcut to the north side of the gorge from here. Gates on Forest Service roads are usually open but can close if the road is damaged or during wildfire activity.
At the Arch
Treat any cliff edge near the arch with respect. The Forest Service warns that falls in the gorge usually involve going near the edge after dark, intoxication, or stunts, and it asks visitors not to dig, move rocks or build fires in rock shelters because they protect archaeological sites. All caves in the gorge are closed to protect bats from white-nose syndrome.
Dogs and Bears
Dogs can come along. Keep yours leashed at the trailhead, as federal developed-site rules require, and under control on the narrow ledges. Black bear numbers are rising in the gorge, according to the Forest Service, so pack out food scraps and don't leave packs unattended at the arch while you explore.
Hiking tips for Double Arch Trail (Red River Gorge)
- Wear shoes with grip for the rocky, muddy patches.
- Start early if you plan the 6.2-mile loop with Courthouse Rock.
- Park only in the signed lot at the end of the drivable road.
- Keep food packed away; bears are increasingly common here.
- Turn around with enough daylight to finish before dark.
Nearby trails to explore
- Auxier Ridge Trail to Courthouse Rock
- Gray's Arch Trail
- Whittleton Arch Trail
Hike this trail with TrailMates
Double Arch rewards a longer day, especially if your group adds Courthouse Rock. Use TrailMates to find Red River Gorge hikers who want the full loop and coordinate start time and carpools in the event group chat. Download TrailMates on the App Store or Google Play.