Dedicated Dec. 16, 1981, Natural Bridge State Park Nature Preserve today consists of approximately 1,188 acres and is located in Powell County. The preserve lies within the boundaries of Natural Bridge State Resort Park. This area was dedicated into the nature preserves system to protect a significant geological system and rare species habitat.
The rare Virginia big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii virginianus), a federally endangered species, occurs at this preserve. The Hood Branch watershed supports one of the most diverse macroinvertebrate communities in the Kentucky River system, indicating excellent water quality. Fortunately, the entire watershed lies within the preserve and state park boundaries which provides protection for this diverse aquatic community.
- Features - Natural bridge, rare species, scenic views
- Access - 13 miles of trail over uneven terrain, moderate to strenuous
- Facilities - state resort park
- Parking - abundant
- Hazards - cliffs, venomous snakes (rare)
- Activities - hiking, nature study, geological study
- Directions - Powell County. From the junction of the Mountain Parkway and KY 11 at Slade, follow KY 11 south for two miles to the Natural Bridge State Resort Park entrance.
State nature preserves located within Kentucky state parks are special places with different management priorities. While the parks are there primarily for public recreation, the acreage that has been dedicated as a nature preserve is set aside for the rare, threatened or endangered species and communities that occur there. KSNPC is focused on management for these species and communities while providing opportunities for scientific research and nonconsumptive recreation. For information concerning use of state park facilities, programs, recreation opportunities and lodging please visit the Natural Bridge State Resort Park Web site.
Preregistration is required for all events unless otherwise stated.
Exploring Arch Country Guided Hikes
When: Saturday, Jan. 23, 2010
Start Time: 9 a.m. EST
Difficulty: moderate
Cost: $15/person
Enjoy a day of hiking throughout Kentucky's Land of the Arches! On these guided hikes you will get a good look at the area's rugged cliff lines, rock shelters, rhododendron and natural arches. Each trip is different and total distances vary from six to 10 miles. Adults and children ages 12 and up welcome. Please contact Tyler Morgan at tyler.morgan@ky.gov for more information.
Wildflower Weekend
When: Friday-Sunday, April 23-25, 2010
Start Time: 8:30 a.m. EDT
Difficulty: Easy to moderately strenuous
Cost: Registration fee due upon arrival
Enjoy the hundreds of native plant species around the Natural Bridge area this weekend with other botanists, gardeners and nature lovers. Field trips will range from short easy walks to longer hikes at Natural Bridge and the Red River Gorge Geological Area. Evening speakers will focus on the native plants in the region. For more information please contact Brian Gasdorf at brian.gasdorf@ky.gov.
Herpetology Weekend
When: Friday and Saturday, May 7-8, 2010
Cost: Registration fee due upon arrival.
Discover nature's most misunderstood critters! Experienced herpetologists will lead field trips into the Red River Gorge Geological Area to observe reptiles and amphibians in their native habitat. Collection is prohibited. Friday and Saturday evening presentations will focus on reptile and amphibian natural history and conservation. Some demonstrations will include live venomous snakes! For more information please contact Brian Gasdorf at brian.gasdorf@ky.gov.
Exploring Arch Country Guided Hikes
When: Saturday, June 12, 2010
Start Time: 9 a.m. EDT
Difficulty: moderate
Cost: $15/person
Enjoy a day of hiking throughout Kentucky's Land of the Arches! On these guided hikes you will get a good look at the area's rugged cliff lines, rock shelters, rhododendron and natural arches. Each trip is different and total distances vary from six to 10 miles. Adults and children ages 12 and up welcome. Please contact Tyler Morgan at tyler.morgan@ky.gov for more information.
Exploring Arch Country Guided Hikes
When: Saturday, Aug. 21, 2010
Start Time: 9 a.m. EDT
Difficulty: moderate
Cost: $15/person
Enjoy a day of hiking throughout Kentucky's Land of the Arches! On these guided hikes you will get a good look at the area's rugged cliff lines, rock shelters, rhododendron and natural arches. Each trip is different and total distances vary from six to 10 miles. Adults and children ages 12 and up welcome. Please contact Tyler Morgan at tyler.morgan@ky.gov for more information.
Exploring Arch Country Guided Hikes
When: Saturday, Oct. 9, 2010
Start Time: 9 a.m. EDT
Difficulty: moderate
Cost: $15/person
Enjoy a day of hiking throughout Kentucky's Land of the Arches! On these guided hikes you will get a good look at the area's rugged cliff lines, rock shelters, rhododendron and natural arches. Each trip is different and total distances vary from six to 10 miles. Adults and children ages 12 and up welcome. Please contact Tyler Morgan at tyler.morgan@ky.gov for more information.
