Clifty Wilderness on Cumberland Ranger District

Clifty Wilderness is a part of the Red River Gorge Geological Area in the Cumberland Ranger District of the Daniel Boone National Forest. This l2,646-acre wilderness area features arches, rock shelters, and towering cliffs encircling steep, forested slopes and narrow stream valleys. The rugged terrain offers hikers physical challenges as well as the quiet solitude of a forest setting. The areas features steep cliffs that drop off as much as 200 feet down into the valleys. Elevations are as high as 1,257 feet, while canyons below are dotted with rocky creeks. Numerous rock shelters and arches can be found on the mountain slopes.

Clifty Wilderness supports an unusual array of plant and animal life. 750 kinds of flowering plants and 170 species of moss thrive in this area. The diversity may be attributed to geographic location, topography and glacial history. A significant number of endangered, threatened, sensitive, and rare species of plants and animals exist in this area.

What is a wilderness experience?

Congress stated that a wilderness experience is "outstanding opportunities for solitude or a primitive and unconfined type of recreation." In addition to this, "the imprint of man’s work" has to be "substantially unnoticeable." Activities that are not allowed in the wilderness are: commercial enterprises, roads and structures, the landing of aircraft, motorized equipment, motor or mechanical transport.

A wilderness is different from all other national forest lands. People and technology may not interfere with the plants, animals or natural forces of the wilderness. Nature rules and we cannot stop natural processes. In other words, a wilderness must be kept and maintained in a natural state. Since the Wilderness Act says we can "use and enjoy" land "as wilderness," decide if you want this type of experience before entering Clifty Wilderness.

Many people come to Clifty Wilderness to enjoy the natural beauty and solitude of the wilderness. As a result, we must all learn to minimize our impact. By leaving no evidence of our visit, the next visitor can enjoy the natural scenery.

Hunting & Fishing

A variety of game is hunted each year in Clifty Wilderness. White-tailed deer, wild turkey, and ruffed grouse, and more can be found. To hunt on national forest land, you must have a valid hunting license and follow all rules and regulations set forth by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. Deer and turkey permits are also required. Strict penalties exist for illegal hunting. Even though you may be within the Clifty Wilderness boundary, there are pockets of private land within that boundary. Abide by posted "No Hunting" and "No Trespassing" signs.

All fishing must be done in accordance with Kentucky laws and regulations. State fishing licenses are required and may be acquired at stores in the area. Trout fishing requires a trout stamp. The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources can provide additional information.

Canoeing and Kayaking

Within the Gorge is the Red River, a portion of which is part of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System.The upper portion of the Red River lies within Clifty Wilderness, and is designated a Kentucky Wild River. From late December to late May is the best time to take your trip. During this time the water level is usually high enough to provide paddlers with rapids that are Class II or III. The best place to put in is at the KY 746 bridge and then take out at the cement bridge of KY 715. The trip is about nine miles and there are few opportunities to take out until you reach the 715 bridge, so plan on an all day trip.

Backpacking and Hiking

If you are going to hike or backpack in the wilderness, plan your trip in advance. Obtain a wilderness map and study the area you will travel, and calculate how long it will take. Contact the Stanton Office or Gladie Center if you need help or additional information for planning your trip.

There are several official trails that are well marked and maintained by the Forest Service. They are:

#229 Tower Rock

#219 Swift Camp Creek

#228 Wildcat Trail

There are also several unofficial trails in the wilderness, however, at the present time they are not being maintained by the Forest Service. These trails were originally old logging or trace roads which existed before the land was acquired by the national forest. If you plan on hiking these trails, be competent in compass and map reading because there are no trail signs or markers to guide you.

Wilderness Safety

The clifflines of Clifty Wilderness are beautiful, but they are also very dangerous. Every year, visitors are seriously injured or killed by a fall from a cliff. By exercising caution and good sense, accidents can be avoided. For a safe and enjoyable trip, follow these safety tips.

• Avoid camping near the edge of cliffs. After dark, distance perception is impaired.
• Alcohol and cliffs don’t mix! Judgment, agility, and balance are all reduced by alcohol consumption.
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• Avoid traveling on foot after dark. If you must travel after dark, stay in familiar areas and use a good flashlight.
• Make camp before dark. If you’re not familiar with your route or destination, allow extra time. Traveling after dark has resulted in numerous accidents.
• Pay attention to your footing when walking near cliffs. Trees and bushes can’t be trusted to hold you if you slip. Fallen leaves often disguise wet and slippery areas underneath. Take your time to avoid tripping. Low hanging branches and variable terrain make running unsafe.
• Stay on the trail. Cliff edges can be hidden from view by thick entanglements of rhododendrons and underbrush. Avoid shortcuts, which cause erosion and can be dangerous.

If someone in your group is injured, have one person remain with the victim while others go for help. Take note of your surroundings and locate landmarks so you will be able to lead rescuers back to the exact location. During regular hours contact Gladie Center. Calling 911 is the best way to get help.

Gladie Learning Center
3451 Sky Bridge Road
Stanton, KY 40380
606-663-8100

Title: Clifty Wilderness
Last Updated: August 13, 2008