Natural Bridge has been here for a million years

In the midst of the Daniel Boone National Forest, close to where the gentle  hills of the horse country of Lexington, Kentucky grow into the cragginess of the Appalachians is Natural Bridge State Park Resort. This is a place of my childhood and my first look at a natural wonder. Since then, I’ve been here many times, once on a honeymoon sweep of southeastern Kentucky.

Lover's Leap

Renowned writer James Still, who died a few years ago at the age of 96, wrote the novel River of Earth set in mountains such as these. When you look at the landscape surrounding Natural Bridge, you’ll see exactly what inspired the title.

Most Famous For:
The million year old sandstone arch that gives the park its name. This natural wonder thats spans 78  feet and is 65 feet high is the park’s centerpiece, but it’s not the only landmark. Lover’s Leep, Balanced Rock and Devil’s Gulch are others.
Along with the hike to the bridge there are nine other trails that range from 1/2 mile to 7 1/2 miles.

What nature can create

Visitors at Natural Bridge State Park Resort can expect a low-keyed stay of simple pleasures. Check out the daily activities depending upon the season. Guided hikes, craft projects and square dancing are part of the offerings. If you happen to be here on a Bingo night, go. You might win a prize. I did. Square dancing takes place Saturday nights at Hoedown Island.

 

Kids will like:

 The awesomeness of the bridge. You can walk across it, or stand on it anf feel like you’re on top of the world.

Adults will like: In addition to the bridge, guided nature walks where a park ranger points out the natural history of the area and the foliage and fauna details.

The whole family will like: Pedal boat or hydrobike rides. The boats are a way to self propel around the resort’s lake.

Consider a sky lift ride as another way to take in the scenery on the way to the bridge.

Where to Stay:

Where nature surrounds you

The Hemlock Lodge. As with any of the Kentucky State Park lodges, the Hemlock Lodge reflects its natural surroundings. Each of the 35 rooms are equipped with a balcony from where to take in the beauty of the surroundings. The lodge’s outdoor pool is another place to enjoy the mountains.

Cottages: For more privacy and the feel that you are home away from home, a cottage stay is a terrific option. The cottages (either one or two bedroom) come equipped with linen, tableware and utensils. There are only 11 cottages in all so don’t wait to book one.

Campgrounds. The park’s two campgrounds offer 82 campsites with utilities and 12 primative campsites without.

Where to Eat: The lodge’s Sandstone Arches Restaurant serves up Kentucky favorites as well as upscale American cuisine. I’d order the catfish, and the fried green tomatoes.  Don’t go to Kentucky without trying the local flavor.

Whether you stay overnight at the park, Natural Bridge is a wonderful place to spend a few hours. Admission to the park is free.

Don’t miss the gift shop located in the lodge. Here  you can pick up wonderful Kentucky crafts. These are items you may not find elsewhere. I’m always on the lookout for Bybee Pottery.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park
2135 Natural Bridge Road
Slade, KY 40376-9701
Telephone: (606) 663-2214

For more useful information, check out the Natural Bridge Resort’s website at Kentucky State Parks.

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