Princess Arch-Trail #233-Red River Gorge Kentucky

DJ  Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Adventure Review

Princess Arch Trail #233 is only .4 miles in total length.  The distance to the actual arch is only .2 miles and right near the Chimney Top Overlook Trail #235.  Both of these trail heads are accessible from the same parking lot.  The Princess arch trail is an easy hike and is easy to navigate.  There is a trick to finding the arch on this trail.  To find the actual Princess Arch you need to keep a look out for when the trail becomes solid rock beneath your feet.  The trail actually takes you directly on top of the arch.  The best clues that you are on top of the arch are to look for:

1. Look for a rock bridge-like path as you hike.
2. The forest will open up as a small clearing
3. The solid rock part of the trail will narrow to about 8 feet wide, with a drop off on either side.

The arch is approximately 8 feet in height and 20 feet in wide. Exercise caution with young kids on this trail.  Be sure to have a hold of their hand and caution them about the dangerous drop off on the top edges of the Princess Arch.

Princess Arch is worth the short hike.  Be sure to capture the arch with camera and video.  We hiked this trail in the rain and our cameras were out of order.

For more information about Princess Arch and Chimney Top Trails go to:

http://www.fs.fed.us/r8/boone/recreation/trail_cumb.shtml