One of my favorite things about traveling is staying in quirky and unique places when I can. Located in Stanton Kentucky, in the heart of Red River Gorge and part of the Daniel Boone National Forest lies the Red River Gorgeous company (https://www.rrgcabin.com). Red River Gorgeous owns unique treehouses, dome houses and also cabin rentals. I had been eyeing these treehouses for months and I finally pulled the trigger and picked the coolest one of them all.
The Observatory Treehouse is a unique three part treehouse that sits high among the trees and leaves you breathless from the climb. As soon as we pulled into the parking location (highly recommend four wheel drive) we unloaded our supplies and made the trek up the 120 stairs leading to the top. I admit, after a few trips, I was contemplating what I got myself into. I advise being slightly in shape for this treehouse given the amount of steps and climbing the narrow stairs and some that turn into a ladder. However, by the time I made it to the very top and overlooked the view of the fall colors and cliffs in the distance; I knew the climb was worth it. And the climb is ALWAYS worth the view! I’ve learned that from years of hiking.
The Observatory Treehouse features two bedrooms, kitchen, and an outhouse. There is no running water, no electricity, but the company does a fantastic job ensuring you are fully stocked with supplies. The kitchen is stocked with dishes, a stove, and plenty of water while they have lights that connect to solar and plenty of lanterns and flashlights with extra batteries. The best part of the treehouse was the very top where a small bedroom covered in windows from top to bottom created the perfect viewing for stargazing. Keep in mind, it’s all fun and games until you need to climb down those stairs in the middle of the night to use the bathroom. Just outside the the bedroom was a large deck with chairs and provided the perfect view overlooking the woods and made you really feel like you were soaring above the trees.
When I booked the treehouse, I was looking for something that made me feel like I was secluded in a forest feeling lost and isolated from the outside world. I wanted to step away from electronics and immerse myself in a good book and great conversations with my family. This trip exceeded my expectations and allowed me to enjoy a unique experience that left me feeling refreshed and thankful for the time to unplug from reality.
Lodging Type: Unique & Primitive
Price: High ($300 – $700 nightly)
Amenities: Fully stocked kitchen, water supplied, solar lights, lanterns, flashlights, extra batteries, hand towels, toilet paper, soap, bedding, camping chairs, hammock, and campfire.
Red River Gorgeous Service: Excellent 5 Stars *****
Hiking Nearby: http://www.redrivergorge.com/adventures/trails
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