By Jeremy Patton
Winding Stair Gap Trail #402 begins in Cane Creek Wildlife Management Area, Laurel County, Kentucky.
From London, drive west on KY-192 until you reach the bridge that crosses the Rockcastle River. Before crossing, turn right to enter the Laurel County side of Bee Rock Campground. Follow the paved road until you come to Old Sublimity Bridge (foot travel only). There are several parking spots near the bridge. Walk about 100 meters to the boat ramp parking area. From there, join Rockcastle Connector Trail #401A, which connects to Winding Stair Gap Trail.
Rockcastle Connector Trail follows the Rockcastle River for 1.25 miles to the mouth of Cane Creek then parallels the creek for an additional 0.25 miles. It terminates at a relatively narrow crossing, without a bridge. Ford Cane Creek to access Winding Stair Gap Trail. Cane Creek can be dangerous during high water, so plan accordingly.
After fording the creek, turn left onto Rockcastle Narrows East Trail #401 then walk maybe 100 yards to the trail junction. It is very easy to miss. On 11/26/15, it was marked by faded ribbons tied to two trees, one blue and the other red. If you reach the Rockcastle River, you have gone too far.
Winding Stair Gap Trail ascends precipitously northeast via switch-backs then passes between two soaring bluffs. It then climbs another steep passage to the top of the ridge. There, the forest opens up as the trail snakes through gentler terrain, terminating at Forest Road 119. From there, you can retrace your steps or follow FR 119 north to rejoin Rockcastle Narrows East Trail.
Some fascinating rock formations flank the trail, including Winding Stair Gap Arch. The elements have eroded a hole completely through the base of the cliff. Be cautious while exploring it due to the sheer drop-off.
I heard that the old Warner Hotel once stood somewhere in the area. It was built during the late 1800’s and stood until the early 20th century. Supposedly, all that remains of the structure are its foundation and well. I failed to find them during my first visit.
In the mid 1800’s, several resort hotels sprang up near the remote Rockcastle River. People were lured there by the wilderness, dining and entertainment, but also the mineral springs that were claimed to have medicinal properties. Hotels once resided near the mouth of Cane Creek, Old Sublimity Bridge and the confluence of the Rockcastle and Cumberland rivers.
I will update this article when I find the old Warner Hotel site.
Added 1/23/16 – Updated 2/3/19