For a short (about a 1/2-mile out and back) trail, the hike to Henson Arch was still fun and challenging. The steep grade (up to 20% in some sections) gives you a good workout as you make your way to the arch. And the stairs down to the sinkhole aren’t something you see everywhere!
We did the hike to Henson Arch after a morning of completing the Original Trail to Natural Bridge. It didn’t take too long to complete (less than 15 minutes to get to the arch), but it was still fun to do.
If you’re thinking about doing the hike to Henson Arch, the guide below has all of the information you need.
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The Henson Arch Trail
As one of the shortest hikes in the Red River Gorge, Hensons Arch Trail is still worth doing, thanks to the unique feature of the sinkhole and waterfall. The trail leads to a small limestone arch at the entrance to a cave. The stairs lead down into a sinkhole where hikers can get a unique perspective of the and enjoy the cave-like atmosphere.
Things to Know Before You Hike to Henson Arch in Red River Gorge
Parking For Henson Arch in Red River Gorge
The Henson Arch trail is at the Whittleton Campground of Natural Bridge State Resort Park. It’s just down the street from the main part of the park.
Once you arrive at the campground, tell the check-in building you’re there for the Henson Arch hike. They’ll direct you to park your car just past the building.
Amenities at the Henson Arch Trail
Since the Henson Arch Trail is within the Whittleton Campground, visitors can access the restrooms next to the trailhead.
Slippery Conditions
At Henson Arch, there are stairs leading down to a sinkhole. Due to the waterfall at the arch, the stairs may be slippery.
Limited Cell Service
Cell service can be spotty in Daniel Boone National Forest and the Red River Gorge area as a whole. It’s best practice to download a map before you start your hike.
Wildlife
Red River Gorge is home to many wildlife species, including the occasional black bear and poisonous snakes. Always be aware of your surroundings and watch out for the wildlife.
Pets
Dogs are allowed in the Whittleton Campground area of Natural Bridge State Resort Park. However, this trail is not dog-friendly due to the steps.
Be a Responsible Visitor
Remember, as you visit this park, to respect nature. Stay on established paths, pack out your trash (including food waste), and leave what you find behind.
The more popular these destinations become, the more we need to be diligent about keeping our parks and lands clean and safe for all. You can learn more here.
Henson Arch at Natural Bridge State Resort Park
| Trail Location: | Whittleton Campground at Natural Bridge State Resort Park (just past the bathhouse) |
| Trail Length: | .6 miles, out-and-back |
| Trail Difficulty: | Moderate but steep |
| Trail Type: | Out and back |
| Elevation Gain: | 230 feet |
| Dog Friendly: | Dogs are allowed on the Henson Arch trail. However, due to the steep stairs, it’s not the most dog-friendly trail. |
Trailhead for Henson Arch
You can find the Henson Arch trailhead just past the Whittleton Campground bathhouse. From the parking lot, walk towards the bathrooms and turn right before passing them. The trailhead is just a little further down, near two campsites.
After the trailhead, you’ll see a small wooden bridge. Turn left to continue on the trail.
What To Expect On the Trail to Henson Arch
This .6-mile out-and-back trail heads up a steady incline almost the entire way to the grotto and arch. It is very steep in some sections and can be very slippery if it just rained. Although it is a short trail, hiking poles could be beneficial. As you get closer to the arch and waterfall, it starts to level off.
Once you reach the sinkhole, take the ladder-style staircase down to the bottom. Use caution as the steps might be wet from the waterfall spray. We visited in July, and the water was pretty steady.
When you get to the bottom of the sinkhole, look up! You can see the arch formation a little more clearly.
Good to know: This is an out-and-back trail. So you’ll have to climb the steps to get out and navigate the steep trail down as you head back to the trailhead.
Other Hikes Near Henson Arch
Whittleton Arch Trail
The Whittleton Arch is the largest arch by mass in the Red River Gorge. The trailhead for the Whittleton Arch trail is at the Whittleton Campground. It’s about 4.5 miles out and back and it is recommended to continue following the trail past the arch as it is very beautiful. You might even see a seasonal waterfall at the arch.
Original and Laurel Ridge Trails
At the central part of Natural Bridge State Resort Park, the Original Trail leads to Natural Bridge, and the Laurel Trail follows the top of the arch and leads to a beautiful overlook of the arch. You have many options to return to the parking area, including doing the Devil’s Gulch and Battleship Rock Trail.
Henson Arch Wrap-Up
We enjoyed the short hike to Henson Arch. Walking down into the sinkhole and having rock surround you was fun. We loved exploring and looking around the small area and enjoyed the cool air from the waterfall (it was hot when we were there!). The hike shouldn’t take you too long (maybe 30 minutes) and is an excellent addition to any of the other hikes in Red River Gorge.
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