Moonshiners Arch and Caves

Overview. Just beyond Moonshiners Arch along the Red River are a pair of cave entrances with what in wet months is likely a waterfall. While caves are off limits in Daniel Boone National Forest, it’s cool to walk out to check them out. And, of course, the arch itself is super cool, and it has the added feature of a chimney.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 0.55 miles
Overall Difficulty | Easy
*this hike is unmarked, but easy to navigate

Trailhead. Park at the Osborne Bend Parking Lot on KY-715 just west of the one lane concrete bridge. [map]

Trail navigation. From the trailhead, look at the Osborne Bend Trail sign and then look right. Take the trail descending to the river on the right. While there are no markings, this is found most easily by taking a left at all forks to follow the cliffline until arriving at the arch about a quarter-mile from the trailhead. Go through the arch and come out above to a well worn trail leading back to a cave with a pair of entrance. Note that all caves are off-limits to protect our insect devouring friends - bats. Coming back, feel free to simply walk down along the river to return to your car.

CAUTION - Cliffs. Be careful to avoid getting too close the edge of cliffs, as this is the leading cause of serious injury and death when hiking in Red River Gorge.

CAUTION - Poisonous snakes. While the gorge is within the range of timber rattlesnakes, copperheads are the most common poisonous snake encountered. Stay alert on the trail, as snakes are commonly found taking in the warmth of the trail. Give them a wide berth or wait for them to move off the trail.

CAUTION - Bears. Black bears are growing in number throughout Daniel Boone National Forest. Be sure to follow bear safety precautions. [Be Bear Aware by US Forest Service]