Natural Arch, seen here reaching above the tree tops of the Daniel Boone National Forest, is one of Kentucky’s largest natural rock spans. Its opening, reaching 50 feet in height and almost 100 feet across, was carved from ancient sandstone. Protected by a tough caprock shell, natural weathering has created today’s impressive arch.
  Here in the Natural Arch Scenic Area, just southwest of the intersection of U.S. Route 27 and Kentucky’s Route 90, a system of trails is woven into the rugged Big South Fork Recreation Area. Trail #510 (pdf) leads from the picnic/campground area to several arch viewpoints and the arch itself.
  At one time this was Cherokee country, and the land underneath the arch is still considered scared. Please respect this site and its cultural heritage. Visitors are warned against repelling from the arch and disturbing any part of this rock wonder. The Natural Arch Scenic Area, set aside in 1961, gives special protection to 945 acres of Big South Fork’s Recreation Area. Continuing west on Ky Route 927, additional trails and overlooks along this ridge offer broad views of area valleys and sweeping sections of a vast forestland.

     Area Map