The Red River Gorge Geological Area in Powell County, Kentucky is one of the most remarkable landscapes east of the Mississippi: a sandstone plateau deeply incised by the Red River and its tributaries, creating over 100 natural arches, towering cliffs, and overhanging rock shelters where prehistoric people lived for thousands of years. The Auxier Ridge Trail is the area's most rewarding route, a 4.2-mile loop that traverses the main ridge between Courthouse Rock and Haystack Rock, with cliff-edge views into the gorge that would be at home in the Southwest.

The trail begins at the Auxier Branch Trailhead on KY-15 and climbs through dry oak-hickory forest to the ridge spine. From the ridge, the cliffs drop 250 feet into the hollow below, and on clear days the view extends across multiple ridge systems. The highlight is the traverse between Courthouse Rock and Haystack Rock — a narrow sandstone fin with exposure on both sides. It is exhilarating but not technical; no hands-and-feet climbing is required. An alternate approach via the Wildcat Trail from Miguel's Pizza creates a longer 7-mile loop that many hikers prefer.

Red River Gorge is managed by the Daniel Boone National Forest. No fee and no permit for day hiking. Dogs are allowed on leash. The Gorge is extraordinarily popular on fall weekends; arrive before 9am. Rock climbing is permitted in designated areas. Camping at designated backcountry sites requires a free permit from the Forest Service.