パウエル郡の天然記念物・トップ9

Flowing 97 miles from the Cumberland Plateau to the Kentucky River, the Red River winds through eastern Kentucky’s rugged landscapes and forms the Red River Gorge. Its 1,400-square-mile watershed has deep ravines, sandstone cliffs, and hemlock forests, creating a haven for outdoor recreation. A 19-mile designated Wild and Scenic River segment offers opportunities for paddling, from thrilling rapids in the upper gorge to calm stretches downstream. Anglers will find trout and bass in its cool, clear waters, while hikers and bikers can explore riverside trails, waterfalls, and natural arches. The Red River is both a lifeline for biodiversity and a gateway to unforgettable backcountry adventure.

This narrow, one-lane tunnel is considered to be the gateway into the Red River Gorge. If you plan on riding through here be sure to have your lights ready as the tunnel it long enough to get very dark in the middle.

Said to be named for its resemblance to a courthouse, this feature stands alone at the north end of Auxier Ridge. Reached as part of several possible loops, the stunning Courthouse Rock makes for an enticing mid-hike destination.

Compared to other geological formations in the area, Haystack Rock's domed shape seems conspicuously different—topped by its disc-shaped apex and circumscribed by the lines that suggest its sedimentary layers.

It's clear where the name comes from when you lay your eyes on Double Arch, and the unique geological feature isn't only a sight to see in its own right. From the arch—and from the top section of trail leading to it depending on the time of year—you'll enjoy sight lines to Courthouse Rock and to the rolling hills to the east.

From atop Battleship Rock, a huge sandstone cliff, you're in a perfect spot to snack, rest, and take in the views. You have clear lines of site to the Natural Bridge to the south and the middle fork of the Red River running in the valley below to the east, with seemingly endless rolling hills in every direction. As always, keep an eye on the weather during the stormy season if you're spending time in this beautiful, exposed spot.

Grays Arch is a visually-striking, towering sandstone arch that pays off the effort made to reach it. For safety, the Forest Service recommends using only the eastern portion of the side trail to the arch before continuing on your loop (use the eastern section of #205 Grays Arch Trail as an out-and-back spur rather than as a bypass to connect to #221 Rough Trail on either side of the arch). As always in this area, sturdy footwear that offers good grip in wet conditions is a must!

Rock Garden Trail winds through dense forest, offering mostly flat hiking punctuated by the occasional picturesque though challenging set of stairs. Depending on the time of year, this section offers birdwatching and plant identifying opportunities, along with an array of impressive sandstone boulders and rock formations to take in.