🐾⛰️ Hiking Indian Staircase to Cloudsplitter with Simba the Adventure Pup - Red River Gorge, KY 🌄🪨

Hey trail fam! Ash here — and this week’s adventure was next level. Simba the Adventure Pup and I took on one of the most iconic, unofficial, and adrenaline-pumping hikes in Red River Gorge: the Indian Staircase to Cloudsplitter route near Campton, Kentucky! 🐶💪

If you’re looking for a scrambly, scenic, and legendary trail packed with arches, ledges, big views, and that wild off-the-map energy — this one delivers. And yes, Simba was up for the challenge (with safety, slow pacing, and plenty of water breaks). 🐾💧

📍 Trail Overview

Location: Red River Gorge – Campton, KY
Route: Indian Staircase ➝ Indian Arch ➝ Cloudsplitter Overlook (loop)
Distance: ~4.5 to 5 miles total
Difficulty: Strenuous (steep climbs, ledges, rock scrambles)
Dog-Friendly?: For experienced trail dogs only — Simba rocked it 🐕
Trail Type: Unofficial loop combining multiple user-created paths
Highlights: Natural arches, epic ridge views, sandstone stair climb, rock ledges, Cloudsplitter summit

🥾 What to Expect on the Trail

This isn’t your average marked loop — it’s a route for experienced hikers and pups, so come prepared, stay alert, and respect the terrain.

We started from the Bison Way Trailhead, connecting with the Sheltowee Trace, then broke off on a user-created path toward Indian Arch — a stunning natural rock arch that’s only a warm-up for what’s ahead. 🪨

🪜 The Indian Staircase Ascent

Here’s where things get spicy 🔥

The Indian Staircase is a steep, sloped sandstone face with natural footholds carved into the rock. You’re climbing on all fours, hugging the stone, and using your core — it’s thrilling, and the views get better with every step.

I helped Simba navigate the safest parts, and he crushed it. 🐾 This section requires caution and confidence, but the top reward? Unreal.

⛰️ Ridgeline Views + Cloudsplitter Bonus

Once you reach the top of the Staircase, you’re treated to jaw-dropping views of the gorge — ridge after ridge, tree-covered valleys, and the hush of wilderness all around.

We looped around to Cloudsplitter, a dramatic rock formation you can scramble into for even more panoramic views. The opening is narrow, but worth it if you’re game. It’s a natural “window” over the gorge and one of the most photogenic spots in the region. 📸🌄

🐶 Simba’s Trail Report

This was one of Simba’s biggest hiking challenges — and he handled it like the trail pro he is:

✔️ Confident on slickrock and scrambles
✔️ Listened closely on tricky ledges
✔️ Stayed cool in the forest shade
✔️ Took plenty of water/snack breaks

Tail rating: 🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 “10/10 would scramble again!”

🚐 RV + Trail Tips

• No RV parking at the trailhead — park your rig at Koomer Ridge Campground or a local site
• Bring a map, GPS, or download your route in advance — this is an unofficial trail with little signage
• Avoid this hike during wet weather — rock faces and ledges become dangerous when slick
• This is a bucket list hike — not a casual stroll!

🎥 Watch the Full Adventure

In this week’s video:

🎬 Scrambling up Indian Staircase
🐶 Simba’s confident climbs and ridge joy
🌄 Epic shots from Cloudsplitter
💬 Honest trail tips and safety notes for off-trail adventurers

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✨ Final Thoughts

This wasn’t just a hike — it was an experience. The Indian Staircase to Cloudsplitter loop offers raw adventure, unmatched views, and a trail challenge you’ll remember forever. If you’re an experienced hiker (with a confident pup in tow), it’s absolutely worth every step.

Until next time — happy scrambles, summit vibes, and golden trail moments!
– Ash & Simba 🐾⛰️