Clifty Wilderness is a rugged and undeveloped wilderness area located within Kentucky's Daniel Boone National Forest, forming part of the Red River Gorge Geological Area. Characterized by numerous sandstone arches, towering cliffs, steep valleys, and boulder-strewn creeks, its landscape provides a challenging and primitive setting for outdoor activities. Heavily forested slopes and ridges, along with the Red River, contribute to a diverse environment suitable for several sports like hiking and jogging.
Clifty Wilderness offers…
24
Routes
4.9
(19)
Average rating
258
People visited

5.0
(2)
27
hikers
1.11km
00:22
50m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
6
hikers
8.80km
02:31
190m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

6
hikers
6.31km
01:50
150m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

1
hikers
2.56km
00:42
60m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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18
runners
19.2km
02:35
530m
530m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5
runners
11.5km
01:34
360m
360m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5
runners
37.0km
04:41
860m
860m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

4
runners
15.4km
02:00
390m
390m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Clifty Wilderness offers opportunities for activities such as Hiking and Jogging. The area is known for its rugged terrain, extensive trail system, and primitive wilderness experience.
Clifty Wilderness features over 20 miles of trails, leading through varied terrain including stream valleys and ridges with panoramic views. For more information, consult the guide Hiking in Clifty Wilderness.
Yes, there are options for less strenuous hikes within Clifty Wilderness. Hikers can find suitable routes by exploring the guide Easy hikes in Clifty Wilderness.
Jogging is possible on some trails within Clifty Wilderness, though the challenging topography often lends itself to more strenuous exploration. Information on suitable routes can be found in the guide Running Trails in Clifty Wilderness.
Clifty Wilderness is characterized by numerous sandstone arches, towering cliffs, and steep valleys. It also features boulder-strewn creeks, the Red River, and dense forests with diverse plant life.
Yes, Clifty Wilderness and the surrounding Red River Gorge area contain waterfalls. Specific routes that highlight these features are detailed in the guide Waterfall hikes in Clifty Wilderness.
Primitive backcountry camping is allowed in Clifty Wilderness, offering a true wilderness experience. Regulations apply, such as not camping within 300 feet (approximately 90 meters) of roads or developed trails.
There are 9 routes available for Clifty Wilderness on komoot. These routes have been rated by more than 4,000 visitors, achieving an average rating of 4.69 out of 5 stars.
Clifty Wilderness is managed as part of the Daniel Boone National Forest. The official website for information is fs.usda.gov/recarea/dbnf/recarea/?recid=39458.
For information regarding Clifty Wilderness, which is part of the Daniel Boone National Forest, the Cumberland Ranger District Office can be reached at +1-606-784-6428.
Clifty Wilderness is a federally designated wilderness area, prohibiting motorized or mechanized equipment. This designation preserves its rugged, undeveloped character, offering solitude and scenic beauty without modern interruptions.
Clifty Wilderness is home to abundant wildlife due to its diverse environment. The area supports more than 750 flowering plants and 170 moss species, including many rare or endangered varieties.

