Auxier Ridge, Courthouse Rock, and Double Arch

Join the Bluegrass Hikers for a scenic 6.2-mile loop along Auxier Ridge, with stops at Courthouse Rock and Double Arch. This is a moderate hike with several climbs and descents, but we’ll keep a relaxed pace, making it a good option for fit beginners ready for a longer trail day.

HIKE OVERVIEW
Location: Red River Gorge
Distance: 6.2 miles
Time: 4-5 hours hiking + late lunch
Elevation: 1,050 feet ascent
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate - Good for Fit Beginners
Trail Conditions: Forest and dirt trails, exposed sandstone ridge sections, stairs, rock scrambles, stream crossings, and gravel road. Steep climbs and descents, with uneven, rocky terrain and some exposed drop-offs.
No Guest: Hikers must have their own membership to RSVP for this event.
Pets: Leashed pets are welcome to join. Please do not allow your pet to approach another person/pet without checking first.

Essential Hiking Gear

• Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction
• 2–3 liters of water and snacks
• Backpack for carrying gear
• Weather-appropriate layers
• Bug spray, sunscreen, and a hat
• Basic first-aid kit
• Trekking poles (optional)

Experience Level: Moderate - Good for Fit Beginners
Previous hiking experience is helpful but not required. You should be comfortable hiking 6+ miles for 4–5 hours on uneven terrain and handling repeated climbs without long recovery breaks. This hike is approximately 6.2 miles with 1,050 feet of ascent. We’ll hike at a relaxed pace, but a reasonable level of fitness and endurance is needed.

Hike Start
Meet at the Park & Ride next to the GoTime Gas Station in Slade, KY. at 8:00 a.m. We will consolidate cars and leave no later than 8:05 a.m.

Message Louise W (organizer) for carpool details from Cabela's in Lexington.

Hike End
Estimated finish: 2:00 p.m., followed by a late lunch at Red River Rockhouse.

Trail Safety
There are steep drop-offs on this trail. Please stay back from cliff edges and use extra caution when the trail or rocks are wet. Copperheads, timber rattlesnakes, and black bears are also found in the area.

DISCLAIMER
By committing to this event, you acknowledge you have read the following Disclaimer: Meetup organizers/leaders are not guides, nor are they experts. You are solely responsible for your own safety. By signing up for and attending this Meetup event, you acknowledge, understand, accept, and agree that hiking is an outdoor activity that can be dangerous and can cause serious bodily injury and possibly death. By participating in this Meetup event, you acknowledge that you're of good physical standing and willing to risk the inherent dangers of the activity. All attendees participate at their own risk and are solely responsible for any damage to their property, and/or any injury to themselves or their guests. By signing up for this event, you affirm that you understand this disclaimer, and that you knowingly and voluntarily agree not to bring any type of claim arising out of or related to this Meetup event.