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 Historical Attractions ...
Contemporary visitors are not the first to be attracted to Natural Bridge, Red River Gorge, Stanton and Clay City. The historical towering sandstone monuments in the area are the result of 70 million years of wind and water sculpting. Many of the area rock shelters were home to both Native Americans and the early pioneers. Traces of ancient civilizations from thousands of years ago are engraved in stone staircases and pictographs throughout the area.
Visitors today can catch a glimpse of the loggers' life in a turn-of-the century camp at the Gladie Historic site. Tour the historic Clay City National Bank Building, built in 1890, now the home of the Red River Museum's millstone and old mill engine collection. Or view Nada Tunnel, the result of famed John Henry's 1910 two year effort to steam drill cut through solid rock.
Today, that same Nada Tunnel is your gateway into a forest that is home to a diversity of plants, animals and natural beauty. Nature has created a masterpiece in this part of the world through the powers of wind and water. Enjoy your visit to one of America's most unique and historic natural wonders.
 
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FITCHBURG FURNACE
Located approximately 10 miles from Stanton, the Fitchburg Furnace was constructed in 1868 by masons from Ravenna, Italy. The twin stack furnace went into operation in 1870. This impressive native stone structure became the largest charcoal-burning furnace in the world.
606.723.2450
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GLADIE CABIN
The Gladie Cabin, a reconstructed log house, is the only structure in the Red River Gorge that dates back to the late 1800’s. An information center near the cabin is open spring through fall from 9:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
606.663.8100
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NADA TUNNEL
Enter the Red River Gorge through this 900 foot tunnel, located along KY 77. This tunnel, open to one-lane traffic only, was built for use by a logging railroad during the early 1900’s. The tunnel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
606.663.8100
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NATURAL BRIDGE STATE RESORT PARK
Home to the great natural sandstone arch which stands 65 feet high and 78 feet long. This 2,200 Park sits in the Daniel Boone National Forest, and offers lodging, dining, a gift shop, meeting rooms, a nature center, swimming pool, fishing, camping and hiking.
800.325.1710
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RED RIVER GORGE / GEOLOGICAL AREA
A National Natural Landmark, the Gorge is part of the Daniel Boone National Forest. It is a magnificent natural wonderland with more than 80 natural sandstone arches. The Gorge is the result of over 70 million years of wind and water sculpting. It boasts the largest concentration of rock shelters and arches east of the Rockies (over 100).
606.663.8100
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RED RIVER HISTORICAL MUSEUM
Located in Clay City, the RRHM displays artifacts from the area’s iron, logging, and railroad industry. A reconstructed log school-house is also adjacent to the museum, as well as a historic mill-stone collection.
606.663.4000
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