The Red River Gorge in Kentucky is a stunning natural wonder, and the Bert T Combs Mountain Parkway is the perfect way to explore it. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views, plenty of places to stop, and plenty of opportunities to explore the area. Here are seven must-see sites along the Bert T Combs Mountain Parkway at the Red River Gorge in Kentucky.
1. Natural Bridge State Resort Park
Natural Bridge State Resort Park is a must-see for anyone visiting the Red River Gorge. This park is home to the iconic Natural Bridge, a sandstone arch that stands 65 feet high and 78 feet long. The park also offers plenty of other activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and more. There are also plenty of places to eat and stay, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two exploring the Red River Gorge.
2. Red River Gorge Geological Area
The Red River Gorge Geological Area is a National Natural Landmark and a must-see for anyone visiting the Red River Gorge. This area is home to some of the most stunning natural features in the region, including sandstone arches, cliffs, and waterfalls. There are plenty of trails to explore, and the views are simply breathtaking. Be sure to bring your camera, as you won’t want to miss out on capturing the beauty of this area.
3. Nada Tunnel
The Nada Tunnel is a must-see for anyone visiting the Red River Gorge. This tunnel was built in the early 1900s and is one of the most iconic features of the area. The tunnel is a great place to stop and take in the views, and it’s also a great place to take some photos. Be sure to bring a flashlight, as the tunnel can be quite dark.
4. Sky Bridge
The Sky Bridge is another must-see for anyone visiting the Red River Gorge. This bridge is a stunning natural arch that stands over 200 feet high and spans over 500 feet across. The views from the bridge are simply breathtaking, and it’s a great place to take some photos. Be sure to bring a flashlight, as the bridge can be quite dark.
5. Gray’s Arch
Gray’s Arch is another must-see for anyone visiting the Red River Gorge. This arch is one of the most iconic features of the area, and it’s a great place to take some photos. The arch stands over 100 feet high and spans over 200 feet across. Be sure to bring a flashlight, as the arch can be quite dark.
6. Indian Staircase
The Indian Staircase is another must-see for anyone visiting the Red River Gorge. This staircase is a stunning natural formation that stands over 100 feet high and spans over 200 feet across. The views from the staircase are simply breathtaking, and it’s a great place to take some photos. Be sure to bring a flashlight, as the staircase can be quite dark.
7. Red River Gorge Scenic Byway
The Red River Gorge Scenic Byway is a must-see for anyone visiting the Red River Gorge. This scenic drive offers stunning views of the area, and it’s a great way to explore the area. The byway is full of places to stop and take in the views, and there are plenty of places to eat and stay along the way. Be sure to bring your camera, as you won’t want to miss out on capturing the beauty of this area.
The Red River Gorge in Kentucky is a stunning natural wonder, and the Bert T Combs Mountain Parkway is the perfect way to explore it. From Natural Bridge State Resort Park to the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway, there are plenty of must-see sites along the Bert T Combs Mountain Parkway at the Red River Gorge in Kentucky. Be sure to bring your camera, as you won’t want to miss out on capturing the beauty of this area.
The History of the Bert T Combs Moutain Parkway
Bert T. Combs was a prominent figure in Kentucky politics, serving as the state’s governor from 1959 to 1963. He was a champion of progressive causes, such as civil rights, education reform, and economic development. He was also instrumental in the construction of the Mountain Parkway in Kentucky, which was named in his honor.
The Mountain Parkway is a four-lane highway that runs from Prestonsburg to Salyersville, connecting the eastern and western parts of the state. It was built in the 1960s, during Combs’ tenure as governor, and was the first major highway project in the state. Combs saw the highway as a way to improve access to the state’s rural areas, and to spur economic development.
Combs was a strong advocate for the project, and worked tirelessly to secure the necessary funding and support. He was able to secure federal funds for the project, and worked with local officials to ensure that the highway was built in a way that would benefit the local communities.
The Mountain Parkway was officially named in Combs’ honor in 1965, and today it is a major thoroughfare in the state. It is a testament to Combs’ commitment to improving the lives of Kentuckians, and his legacy lives on in the highway that bears his name.
