Natural Arch Scenic Area on Stearns Ranger District

Towering above a forest woodland, Natural Arch stands as an impressive monument to the forces of nature in action. The 50- by 90-foot arch was formed by the erosion of wind, water, and ice that cut away the soft sandstone and left a hard rock cap that arches dramatically across the sky. Other attractions include forested ridges, scenic overlooks, unique flora and fauna, and over 9 miles of trails.

As you hike the trails, notice the variety of wildlife that make their home here--wild turkey, grouse, deer, squirrel, and raccoon. In the spring, wildflowers such as lady slipper, trillium, and jack-in-the-pulpit delight the eye. Autumn will have its own show for you with a beautiful display of brilliant color.

The arch and surrounding 945 acres, once home to prehistoric groups and later the hunting grounds of the Cherokee, were set aside to conserve the area's natural beauty. Archaeological studies are providing insight into the lives of prehistoric people who lived and hunted in this area. These people left no written records, but sites scattered throughout this area provide many clues about how they lived.

The area underneath Natural Arch is considered sacred by the Cherokee. The site is fenced and is made of red cedar, a tree revered by the Cherokee. Please stay out of the fenced area.

Disturbing or vandalizing an archaeological site destroys the cultural heritage of the Native Americans. These sites form a part of the cultural heritage of all Americans. Destroying or defacing these places is like someone vandalizing your home, church or cemetery. To preserve these sites:

• Stay out of fenced area underneath the arch, marked by “Avoidance Area” signs.
• Do not climb or rappel on top of the arch.
• Do not disturb rock shelters.
• Do not collect or dig for artifacts.
• Do not disturb the soil, dig, or move rocks.

All artifacts and cultural resources are protected by state and federal law. Please report looting or vandalism to the Stearns District Office.

This forest is participating in the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act which allows the Forest Service to charge at recreation areas and reinvest the revenues in those facilities. Visitors are required to purchase a day use pass when visiting the Natural Arch Recreation Area. Passes are available from sales outlets in local stores near the recreation areas, and at Forest Service offices. You can buy a hang tag from local vendors or pay at the site. 2009 Recreation Schedule and Fees.

TRAILS

Natural Arch Trail #510 (1.00 mile). The trail begins on the north end of the picnic area and runs along a paved pathway to the base of Natural Arch, passing two scenic overlooks along the way. At the arch, you may climb the steps to the arch itself or continue along a dirt pathway that loops around the northwest end of the arch.

Buffalo Canyon Trail #508 (5.13 miles). The Buffalo Canyon Trail Trail passes around the Arch for a couple miles to the Spruce creek road. At the road crossing, be sure that you turn left after crossing the road. (Turning right will lead you to Greenwood, a good distance from Natural Arch and not part of the trail).

Panoramic View Trail #528 (0.55 mile). The trail begins at the Great Gulf Overlook Parking Lot and traverses an old roadway out the ridgeline to the northeast, terminating at a scenic overlook. A second scenic overlook can be seen about halfway out off to the right of this trail.

Trails within the Natural Arch Scenic Area are designed for hiking and day use only.

Directions to Natural Arch: Take US 27 south from Somerset for 21 miles, turn right (west) on KY 927 and follow the signs for 2 miles. Take US 27 north from Whitley City for 5 miles, turn left (west) on KY 927 and follow for 2 miles.

Title: Natural Arch Scenic Area
Last Updated: August 18, 2009