Kentucky may be known for its horse racing and bourbon tasting, but the state has plenty of natural beauty to offer as well. Red River Gorge (RRG), approximately an hour from Lexington, is a fantastic spot for fall and spring outdoor adventures. It’s beautiful, quiet, and family-friendly.
Pack the car and bring the kids to RRG to camp, climb, hike, and enjoy Kentucky’s lush natural landscape. Here are some of our favorite trails, activities, and eats to help you make the most of your time.
What Makes RRG Special
The “Red,” in general, refers to a large natural area in east-central Kentucky along the Red River. It encompasses the Red River Gorge Geological Area, along with several small towns, vast swaths of Daniel Boone National Forest, dozens of hiking trails, and nearly 100 climbing areas.
The area is renowned for its series of canyons, dramatic sandstone cliffs, and unique rock formations, all formed through erosion, time, and the waters of the Red River.
Most areas are free to access, and affordable camping is plentiful. It’s possible to have a family getaway at the Red that won’t break the bank.
Outdoor tourism is a bedrock of the local economy. Climbers alone spend $8.7 million here annually, according to a 2021 study. To cater to visitors, the area offers numerous cabin rentals, campgrounds, and guided recreation services. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a newbie just dipping your toes into the outdoors, there’s something at Red River Gorge for you.
Guide to Red River Gorge
Hiking
The great thing about most hikes in RRG is that they all offer some kind of cool sight, such as a rock bridge, waterfall, or canyon vista. You’re not just hiking in a forest (as pleasant as that may be). Your hiking will be rewarded with something spectacular.
If you’re bringing younger kids along, try the Grays Arch (2.5 miles) or Rock Bridge Loop (1.5 miles) trails. Both are well-maintained, relatively flat, and include impressive stone formations and waterfalls.
For a slightly longer hike, check out the Auxier Ridge Trail (4.5 miles). On this loop, you’ll get your fill of classic RRG sights, like Haystack Rock, Raven Rock, and Courthouse Rock. Add on another two miles, and you’ll be able to get to the Double Arch, another impressive landmark. If you’re looking to backpack, try section-hiking part of the Sheltowee Trace Trail. It’s a 343-mile thru-hike that passes through the Red.
Climbing
With over 100 crags and 4,000 routes, the Red is a true climber’s paradise. On any given weekend in the fall, you’re bound to see local restaurants and campsites filled with self-described dirtbags who are stoked to climb.
You don’t need to be experienced to get outside and enjoy some of the Southeast’s most impressive rock, though. There are multiple guided, accredited climbing guiding services in the area, including Southeast Mountain Guides and Bluegrass Climbing School. In addition to classic outdoor climbing, there’s also via ferrata, which gives a unique perspective and vista on the gorge.
Paddling
Like anywhere in the Southeast, the Red River Gorge can be hot and humid in the summer. If you visit during this season, kayaking is the perfect escape.
If you’re looking for a relaxed day at a calm lake, try Mill Creek Lake, which is also popular with anglers. An 8-mile section of the middle of the Red River (from the KY 715 bridge to the KY 77 bridge) is also quite calm and paddleable.
For more of an adventure, with Class II and III waters, check out 10 miles on the upper part of the Red River (from Big Branch to KY 715). Kayak rentals are available through various providers, including Kayak the Red and Red River Adventure.
Where to Stay & Other Logistics
Camping
Camping is the most affordable lodging option in the Red River Gorge. Climbers tend to stay at Miguel’s, Lago Linda Hideaway, and Land of the Arches Campground. These places offer first-come, first-served sites for around $5-8 per night. They include Wi-Fi, bathrooms, showers, and other basic amenities. Be aware that they tend to be quite full and busy on the weekends in the fall.
The Forest Service also allows backcountry dispersed camping in Daniel Boone National Forest, provided that you’ve obtained a pass, which costs $5 per day or $7 for 3 days. There are multiple established USFS-run campsites in the area as well that have the same fee structure; find more info here.
Cabins and Rentals
For a step up from a tent, there’s a plethora of cabins, houses, and other short-term rentals available at Red River Gorge. Options range from basic and no-frills to luxe setups with hot tubs and more. Major renters include Red River Gorge Cabins, Red River Gorgeous, and Scenic Cabin Rentals.
With the small size of towns here and the uneven, rocky terrain, traditional hotels are rather rare. If you want access to a wider range of options and services, Lexington, a city of over 300,000 people, is about an hour’s drive away.
Where to Eat
Miguel’s Pizza, open since the 1980s, is a local icon. In the morning, it’s got hot coffee and build-your-own breakfast burritos. After a long day in the outdoors, refuel with hearty pizzas and housemade margaritas.
From Thursday to Sunday, Red River Rockhouse serves up burgers and burritos. For a slightly more refined experience, visit farm-to-table joint Hop’s.
The nearest grocery store — a Kroger in Stanton — is about 20 minutes away from the heart of the gorge. If you’ll need more than the necessities that this small store provides, be sure to stop by larger stores in Winchester or Lexington on your drive in.
Gear
Should you find yourself in need of outdoor gear while at the Red, Miguel’s has a small gear shop. It’s mainly oriented toward climbers, but it also has other apparel and camping necessities.
The closest large outdoor supply store is in Lexington. J&H Outdoors has been open since 1972 and should carry anything you might need.
Best Time of Year to Visit Red River Gorge
Fall (September to October) and spring (April to May) are the most popular times to visit the park, because the temperatures are at their mildest and the scenery is amazing.
In the fall, the color change in the Appalachian woodlands is breathtaking. It can be a busy time to visit Red River Gorge, but it’s worth it if you’ve never seen autumn in this environment. The reds, golds, and yellows light the forests up with warm hues that stretch as far as the eye can see. Temperatures are cooler, so you’ll want to bring a jacket and a beanie. But the weather is usually mild and predictable.
Spring in Red River Gorge is also beautiful. The trees are budding, the birds are chirping, and the world is exploding with life as it reemerges from the depths of winter. This time of year is far less busy than the fall, and temperatures are generally warmer (but be prepared for cooler days as well).
In summer, the Red River Gorge area is at its hottest and most humid. It’s still beautiful if you can handle the muggy climate and buggy environment. Winter is by far the slowest time of year at Red River Gorge. It’s also a great time for climbing, as your hands won’t sweat and can grip the rock better. However, it will be colder, and the trees will not have their leaves, making for some distinctly different seasonal scenery.
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