- Region
- KY, USA
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- hiking
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- Confirm current permit, camping and reserv…
- Managed by
- U.S. Forest Service, Daniel Boone National Forest, Cumberland Ranger District
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Clifty Wilderness trip tools
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Photos of Clifty Wilderness
How to get there
Clifty Wilderness lies within the Red River Gorge Geological Area in Kentucky’s Daniel Boone National Forest. Contact the Cumberland Ranger District at 606-784-6428 for trailhead directions and current access information. Its office is at 2375 KY 801 South, Morehead, KY 40351; this is an agency contact location, not a wilderness trailhead.
Sources: fs.usda.gov · University of Montana / federal agency partners · Wilderness Connect / federal wilderness boundary inventory · Wikipedia. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
KY, USA · United States
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Hunting
- Surfing
- Hiking
- Backpacking
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
Sandstone cliffs and steep valleys
Clifty Wilderness protects 12,371 acres within Kentucky’s Red River Gorge Geological Area in Daniel Boone National Forest. Designated by Congress in 1985, it is a landscape of high cliffs, steep valleys, sandstone arches, rock shelters and boulder-strewn creeks. The Red Wild and Scenic River bisects the wilderness, while more than 20 miles of trail pass through forested stream valleys and across ridges with broad landscape views. The terrain makes this a physically demanding hiking destination rather than a place to judge effort by mileage alone. Plan for slower travel where steep ground and rocky footing require attention, and keep well back from cliff edges. Motorized or mechanized equipment is prohibited within the wilderness, so trips depend on self-sufficient travel rather than vehicle access through the interior.
Forest habitats and sensitive plants
The contrast between stream valleys and ridges is central to Clifty’s character. Dense hemlock forest occupies the valleys, and the surrounding geological area supports mature hardwoods and rhododendron thickets beneath sandstone cliffs. Geography, topography and glacial history have helped create unusually rich habitat: the wilderness supports more than 750 flowering plants and 170 mosses, along with abundant wildlife. Many species are classified as endangered, threatened, sensitive or rare. Give that diversity practical consideration while traveling: avoid trampling vegetation, leave plants undisturbed and observe wildlife without approaching or feeding it. A hike here can be as much about the changing forest and creek environments as the ridge views. Allow time to notice those transitions without leaving durable travel surfaces to inspect sensitive vegetation.
Planning a self-sufficient trip
Clifty is open year-round, 24 hours a day, but access hours do not remove the need for careful preparation. There are few, if any, signs inside the wilderness. Carry a reliable map and navigation tools, know how to use them, and choose an outing that leaves time for route-finding and steep terrain. Potable water is not available; bring drinking water or suitable treatment for water collected during the trip. Hiking, backpacking and primitive camping are ways to explore the area, while canoeing, river fishing and hunting also take place here. Confirm current access conditions and any permit requirements with the Cumberland Ranger District before departure. For an overnight trip, pack shelter, food and weather protection with the same self-sufficiency expected on the trail.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Clifty Wilderness, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 37.8384, -83.5796
- Latitude (DMS)
- 37° 50′ 18.4″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 83° 34′ 46.7″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Clifty Wilderness, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
Clifty Wilderness is a rugged area characterized by miles of high cliffs, steep valleys, numerous sandstone arches, rock shelters and boulder-strewn creeks. This Wilderness is located within the scenic...
Key takeaways
- Region: KY, USA
- Country: United States
- Good for: hiking
- Coordinates: 37.838, -83.580
Intended uses
hiking
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at Clifty Wilderness
- Canoeing
Paddle routes, portages, and put-ins.
- Kayaking
Sheltered and open-water paddling lines.
- Hunting
Seasons, tags, and the units that hold animals.
- Surfing
Swell windows and access from camp.
- Hiking
Day miles on marked trail, with route notes and trail links below.
- Backpacking
Multi-day travel with everything on your back — see the packing blocks below.
Animals around Clifty Wilderness
Wildlife guideBlack bearUrsus americanus
Big gameWhitetail DeerOdocoileus virginianus
GamefishLargemouth BassMicropterus nigricans
Wildlife guideNorth American beaverCastor canadensis
Big gameWild HogSus scrofa
GamefishRed DrumSciaenops ocellatus
Wildlife guideSnowshoe hareLepus americanus
Big gameBlack BearUrsus americanus
Sandstone cliffs and steep valleys
Clifty Wilderness protects 12,371 acres within Kentucky’s Red River Gorge Geological Area in Daniel Boone National Forest. Designated by Congress in 1985, it is a landscape of high cliffs, steep valleys, sandstone arches, rock shelters and boulder-strewn creeks. The Red Wild and Scenic River bisects the wilderness, while more than 20 miles of trail pass through forested stream valleys and across ridges with broad landscape views. The terrain makes this a physically demanding hiking destination rather than a place to judge effort by mileage alone. Plan for slower travel where steep ground and rocky footing require attention, and keep well back from cliff edges. Motorized or mechanized equipment is prohibited within the wilderness, so trips depend on self-sufficient travel rather than vehicle access through the interior.
Forest habitats and sensitive plants
The contrast between stream valleys and ridges is central to Clifty’s character. Dense hemlock forest occupies the valleys, and the surrounding geological area supports mature hardwoods and rhododendron thickets beneath sandstone cliffs. Geography, topography and glacial history have helped create unusually rich habitat: the wilderness supports more than 750 flowering plants and 170 mosses, along with abundant wildlife. Many species are classified as endangered, threatened, sensitive or rare. Give that diversity practical consideration while traveling: avoid trampling vegetation, leave plants undisturbed and observe wildlife without approaching or feeding it. A hike here can be as much about the changing forest and creek environments as the ridge views. Allow time to notice those transitions without leaving durable travel surfaces to inspect sensitive vegetation.
Planning a self-sufficient trip
Clifty is open year-round, 24 hours a day, but access hours do not remove the need for careful preparation. There are few, if any, signs inside the wilderness. Carry a reliable map and navigation tools, know how to use them, and choose an outing that leaves time for route-finding and steep terrain. Potable water is not available; bring drinking water or suitable treatment for water collected during the trip. Hiking, backpacking and primitive camping are ways to explore the area, while canoeing, river fishing and hunting also take place here. Confirm current access conditions and any permit requirements with the Cumberland Ranger District before departure. For an overnight trip, pack shelter, food and weather protection with the same self-sufficiency expected on the trail.
Sample itineraries
- Hemlock Valleys Day Hike · 1 day
Choose a mapped trail through Clifty Wilderness’s stream valleys and dense hemlock forest. Set a turnaround suited to the steep terrain and navigation demands. Confirm trail access with the Cumberland Ranger District before leaving; expect few, if any, signs inside the wilderness.
- Ridges and Valleys Backpack · 2 days
Plan a primitive overnight linking valley forest and ridge scenery on mapped trails. Keep daily goals conservative on rugged ground. Confirm access and camping requirements with the Cumberland Ranger District, carry navigation tools, and prepare to treat water.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
Open year-round
Check the forecast before entering steep valleys. If rain is expected, allow extra time for wet rock and boulder-strewn creeks. Avoid committing to a crossing that looks unsafe.
Summer
Open year-round
Adjust effort and water supplies to the forecast, especially on steep climbs and ridge sections. Potable water is not available; carry drinking water and treatment equipment.
Fall
Open year-round
Plan hiking time around available daylight and carry layers for changing temperatures. Hunting is an activity here; check current hunting information and consider high-visibility clothing.
Winter
Open year-round
Check for freezing weather before departure. If ice is present, cliffs, steep trails and creek boulders require extra caution. Shorten plans when footing or daylight limits safe travel.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Open year-round | Check the forecast before entering steep valleys. If rain is expected, allow extra time for wet rock and boulder-strewn creeks. Avoid committing to a crossing that looks unsafe. |
| Summer | Open year-round | Adjust effort and water supplies to the forecast, especially on steep climbs and ridge sections. Potable water is not available; carry drinking water and treatment equipment. |
| Fall | Open year-round | Plan hiking time around available daylight and carry layers for changing temperatures. Hunting is an activity here; check current hunting information and consider high-visibility clothing. |
| Winter | Open year-round | Check for freezing weather before departure. If ice is present, cliffs, steep trails and creek boulders require extra caution. Shorten plans when footing or daylight limits safe travel. |
Permits, fees & closures
Confirm current permit, camping and reservation requirements with the Cumberland Ranger District of Daniel Boone National Forest.
Official source: Daniel Boone National Forest | Clifty Wilderness · Verified October 19, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- High cliffs and steep valleys create serious fall exposure. Keep back from edges and turn around when footing becomes uncertain.
- Boulder-strewn creeks require careful footing, particularly when rocks are wet. Do not force an unsafe crossing.
- Few, if any, signs guide visitors inside the wilderness. Carry a map and compass and know how to use them.
- Rugged, steep terrain can make progress slower than expected. Choose conservative goals and leave time for the return.
- Potable water is not available. Carry adequate drinking water and treat any collected water.
What to pack for Clifty Wilderness
- Detailed trail map
- Compass and navigation skills
- Headlamp and spare power
- First-aid kit
- Emergency shelter
- Drinking water
- Water filter or other treatment
- Refillable water containers
- Food and extra snacks
- Footwear with reliable traction
- Rain protection
- Layers matched to the forecast
- Trekking poles
- High-visibility clothing when hunting is underway
Clifty Wilderness FAQ
- Where is Clifty Wilderness?
- Clifty Wilderness lies within Kentucky’s Red River Gorge Geological Area in Daniel Boone National Forest. The Red Wild and Scenic River bisects its 12,371 acres. The Cumberland Ranger District manages the area.
- How extensive and difficult is the hiking?
- More than 20 miles of trails pass through stream valleys, dense hemlock forest and ridges. Terrain is rugged and steep, with few, if any, signs inside the wilderness. Navigation skills and self-sufficiency matter more than ambitious mileage.
- Can visitors backpack and camp?
- Backpacking and primitive camping are activities here. Confirm current camping requirements and access with the Cumberland Ranger District before planning an overnight.
- Are bicycles or motorized equipment allowed?
- Motorized or mechanized equipment is prohibited within Clifty Wilderness. Plan a nonmechanized visit; bicycles are not appropriate wilderness transport.
- Is drinking water available?
- Potable water is not available. Bring drinking water and a treatment method for any water collected from natural sources.
- Who can help confirm access and current requirements?
- Contact the Cumberland Ranger District at 606-784-6428. Confirm your intended trail access and current requirements before departure rather than treating an interior map point as a trailhead.