Is Red River Gorge worth a visit? When to go, what to do and where to stay
The Red River Gorge Geological Area, located in the Daniel Boone National Forest, is a hidden gem in the Bluegrass State, with scenic views attracting thousands of visits each year.
For those in the Louisville and broader metro area who haven't planned a trip, here's what you need to know.
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Is Red River Gorge worth visiting? What can you do there?
Yes, if you like scenic views and outdoor activities. Red River Gorge, located in the Daniel Boone National Forest, spans nearly 30,000 acres and is home to scenic waterfalls, natural forming bridges, jagged cliffs and more. A variety of activities are offered in the area from mountain biking to rock climbing to hiking.
What town is closest to the Red River Gorge in Kentucky?
Red River Gorge is located in Slade in Wolfe County, according to Kentucky Tourism.
Where is Red River Gorge in Kentucky?
Red River Gorge is at Robbie Ridge Road in Stanton.
Why do they call it Red River Gorge?
The Red River Gorge is named after the river that helped to form it, the Red River. According to the U.S. Forest Service, the river, located within the gorge, runs through Powell County and into the Kentucky River south of Winchester.
Is Red River Gorge a national park?
Red River Gorge is a designated National Geological Area, National Natural Landmark, National Archaeological District and is on the National Register of Historic Places, according to the U.S. Forest Service.
Is the Natural Bridge part of Red River Gorge?
No. While the Natural Bridge is located adjacent to Red River Gorge, it is considered part of the Natural Bridge State Resort Park.
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When is the best time to visit Red River Gorge?
Typically spring or fall, but the timing of a visit can vary depending on the activities and plans for the getaway. According to Red River Gorge, the best time for hiking is early spring to see the flowers blooming or during the fall to see the changing colors of the trees.
For rock climbers, October and November tend to be the peak of the season, but climbers should monitor weather conditions prior to an outing, according to Red River Gorge Cabin Getaways. Those with ziplining plans are recommended to set them for spring and fall, while offered year-round, and those who love to kayak and canoe should consider a visit from mid-April to mid-October.
Things to do at Red River Gorge
Red River Gorge offers a variety of activities to partake in.
Rock Climbing at "The Red"
Red River Gorge, sometimes called "The Red" by frequent visitors, is home to various sandstone cliffs around 200 feet tall accessible for climbing. The three climbing areas within Red River Gorge are the Bald Rock Recreational Preserve, Pendergrass-Murray Recreational Preserve and Miller Fork Recreational Preserve.
Hiking Red River Gorge
Red River Gorge has 67 hiking trails listed on AllTrails. Popular hikes include the Indian Staircase and Indian Arch Loop, the Whittleton Arch Trail, the Gray's Arch Trail, the Chimney Top Rock Trail and the Rock Bridge Loop.
Kayaking and Canoeing at Red River Gorge
Red River Gorge offers opportunities for canoeing and kayaking, according to its website. An underground kayak tour through the caves, called "The Gorge Underground" is also available.
Places to stay at Red River Gorge
Various types of lodging are available at Red River Gorge from campsites to cabins to treehouses.
Camping at "The Red"
Cabins at Red River Gorge
More than 120 cabins are available for a unique stay at the Red River Gorge, ranging from cozy one-bedrooms to accommodations for up to 40 people.
Treehouses in Kentucky
Red River Gorge offers more than 10 unique treehouses to choose from for a visit. They are all a one bathroom one bedroom or larger, with some containing a kitchen and dining areas.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Red River Gorge: Learn about activities, lodging and more
