Natural Arches of the Cumberland Plateau

The Cumberland Plateau is a geographic region lying west of the Appalachian Mountains extending from Northeastern Kentucky through Tennessee and into Northern Alabama and Northwestern Georgia. The Red River Gorge Geological Area in Kentucky and the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River which straddles the Kentucky-Tennessee border are two section the plateau that are must visit destinations.

While the entire region known for its distinct sandstone outcroppings and bluffs. Red River Gorge and the Big South Fork are particularly rich in gorges, rockhouses, waterfalls and natural bridges. In fact, they collectively contain the largest density of natural bridges east of the Rocky Mountains.

Red River Gorge Geological Area

The system of canyons carved by the Red River contains a high concentration of natural arches and other geological features. The Clifty Wilderness Area is contained entirely inside the geological area, but rock formations can be found throughout the gorge. There is an extensive system of trails that provide access to a majority of the area's most prominent features.

The Red River Gorge Geological Area lies entirely inside the Daniel Boone National Forest. If touring with an RV, there are Forest Service campgrounds nearby as well as the Natural Bridges State Resort Park.

Big South Fork of the Cumberland River

Located on the Cumberland Plateau, straddling the Kentucky and Tennessee border, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area was created to protect the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River and is managed by the National Park Service. The recreation areas key geological features are the river gorge and a wide variety of rock formations. Many or even most of the natural bridges can be reached by relatively short, high-payoff hikes.

The area offers activities for most skill levels that include hiking climbing and hiking.

The park service maintains two campgrounds—Blue Heron Campground is in the Kentucky section and Bandy Creek Campground is in Tennessee. The visitor center is located at Bandy Creek, where you can sign up for ranger-led activities or pick up maps and other planning tools to help plan your stay.

It is impossible to say enough about these areas and other sections of the Cumberland Plateau. If you are planning to travel anywhere near the Red River Gorge or the Big South Fork, even a well-planned short stop is worthwhile.