split bow arch

We were in the area and had some spare time as we arrived early on our road trip to Stearns, KY. After driving down some very 1 1/2 lane country roads we began to feel more and more lost. But once I was convinced we were lost, there it was! This is nice arch way out in the country with a 7 mile loop trail that you can hike. If you like. If you like natural bridges or other natural formations this will be right up your alley. There is a fantastic overlook in the area with a short, mostly level, hike. Just follow the signs from Split Bow Arch. It is magnificent. Warning: There were black bear activity signs at each of the sites giving you helpful information on what to do if you see a bear and how to store and handle food in the area. You may want to take extra steps towards your protection if you are so inclined. We did not see any bears during our stay.

Well worth a visit, moderately easy hike down the trail.If you don't want to hike the trail, there is a nice overlook of the arch just up the road....but not as nice as getting in close proximity from the trail!

Pretty cool. Our group of family and friends hiked down to the arch. It was not too strenuous. It was pretty neat. Kind of amazing that nobody outside of Kentucky hears about this place.

We decided to drive around some and see the sights. When we stopped for supper one of the locals suggested we go to Split Bow Arch. We got there late in the evening and it was so beautiful. Looked surreal. Wish we could have walked all the way to it. Maybe next time.

There doesn't seem to be as many people in this area of the park. We didn't see anyone else here or at the Bear Creek overlook. We took pictures from above then took the hike to below the arch. I am so glad that we did because it is much more majestic from down below and it is a nice .7 mile round trip walk. After hiking to the arch we visited the Bear Creek overlook to catch the sun set and it was a spectacular spot to end the day.

From Stearns, Travel west on KY 92 approximately 1.3 miles then bear left onto 1651. After driving approximately 1.1 miles, turn right onto KY 742 in Revelo. Drive approximately 3 miles. Turn left and follow the signs for 3.7 miles to the Bear Creek Trailhead, part of this road is gravel, but well maintained. The road well dead end at a sign for Bear Creek and another sign for the Horse Camp. Turn left and follow the Bear Creak signs. It is just about a mile to the Split Bow Arch overlook. Go another 0.2 of a mile to the Bear Creek Trailhead to follow the 1.3 mile easy loop to the arch. There is plenty of parking and restrooms. The trail can be walked in 15 minutes or so, but plan on at least an an extra 15 minutes to take in the huge rock shelter along the trail and of course the arch itself. The arch is probably around 50 feet tall with a long span. There is a stairway that winds through to the back side of the arch. The pics don't do it justice.