Tucked away in the gorgeous Daniel Boone National Forest, Red River Gorge is a marvel of nature. The river carved innumerable sandstone arches across the 29,000 acres the gorge is spread over. It is the only place east of the Rocky Mountains with several stone arches, majestic waterfalls, bridges, and rocky shelters.

Red River Gorge Kentucky is also considered a national landmark, one of 599 mentioned in the national registry. The area is made up of several trails inside a biking and driving loop made up of routes 11, 715, and 77. You can access all of the trails in this loop, including the Nada Tunnel.

Hunting and trapping are allowed in the gorge, but visitors must take all necessary precautions to protect themselves and their pets during these seasons.

How to Get to Red River Gorge

The closest airport to the gorge is Lexington (LX), but you also have other options. While there is no direct flight to the gorge, you can take the bus to 5^th at Elm, then a bus to 4^th at Sycamore, a walk to Cincinnati, another bus to Lexington, and then drive to the gorge.

If you are traveling from Cincinnati, take the I-75 south to Lexington and exit 111 for about two miles until you get to the Mountain Parkway exit. It will take 12 miles to get to the Slade exit in Stanton, where you can stop for food. Take the Slade exit, turn right when you reach the stop sign, and then another immediately after it until you get to the rest area. From there, head to your campsite or resort you booked cabins in.

Top Red River Gorge Activities You Shouldn’t Miss

Once you reach your Red River Gorge cabin getaways, you can take part in the following activities:

Hiking

The gorge has over 70 miles of expansive hiking trails, which includes the famous Sheltowee Trace trail, which can take you to Tennessee. If you aren't keen on walking 333 miles but are keen on the scenery the historical gorge is known for, hike to Auxier Ridge for jaw-dropping views of towering mountains and forests.

If you prefer a short and sweet hiking trail, the flat and quick trail to The Chimney Tops will suit you, and you can also visit Princess Arch straight from the parking lot. For paved paths, pick the Sky Bridge Recreational Area. Adventurous hikers will appreciate the rough trail and Swift Camp Creek, and to see white turtles up close, head to Sheltowee Trace.

Hikers are advised to always remain on the trail and avoid littering. The area is a national landmark and is protected by authorities.

Rock Climbing

The Red River Gorge is famous around the United States for its majestic crags that mountain climbers cannot get enough of. Steep sandstone surfaces filled with iron deposits offer the perfect grip, and rock shelters add to the experience.

The Military Walk and the Left Flank offer a real challenge for adrenaline junkies, as is Phantasia. For a historical climb, climb Tower Rock, where climbers first scrambled up the gorge in the 1950s. Head to Red River Gorge KY, in October for the annual Rocktoberfest, which celebrates the rich climbing culture of the area.

Zipline Tours

When you visit Red River Gorge, a zip line tour through the gorgeous gorge should be on your list. The tour can take between two to three hours and offers an up close and personal look at the best terrain in the country. Zip from one location to the next, taking in the incredible sites.

You can choose from five lines, each with its views and speeds. Soar above the natural formation to experience natural beauty without constraints. But make sure you book your slot as they go fast, especially during tourist season.

Camping

The gorge also offers a range of camping opportunities for families, individuals, and couples who want to experience nature firsthand. These include primitive camping sites and secret spots that some Kentuckians will happily share with you.

However, before setting up camp, remember that camping is forbidden near trails and rock shelters. Even if you find old campfires and debris near these areas, best to avoid setting up camp there. The prohibition is to protect two threatened bat species that call the gorge their home.

For the best campground, head to Koomer Ridge, but you must be quick to reserve a camping spot. The site fills up fast since it is nearest to the trails.

Other Top Red River Gorge Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss

Besides the activities mentioned above, you should add these attractions to your list when you visit the gorge:

Natural Bridge State Resort Park

The Natural Bridge State Resort Park is a tourist attraction deemed a nature reserve in 1981 by official authorities that wanted to protect rare species. The park is a natural formation that was millions of years in the making. It boasts over 20 hiking trails, from easy to highly complex, but tourists prefer Fat Man's Squeeze and Lover's Leap.

Miguel’s Pizza and Rock-Climbing Shop

Located in the corner of Slade, this is not your typical pizza shop. Miguel's Pizza and Rock Climbing Shop has been a popular pit stop for gorge tourists and mountain climbers for over three decades. Visitors from across the globe visit the spot to camp out back, commune with other mountain climbers, indulge in mouthwatering pizza, and purchase souvenirs.

The Planetarium

For an educational experience that is fun for the whole family, head to the Arnim D. Hummel Planetarium. As one of the largest in the US, the planetarium boasts technology visitors appreciate. Enjoy several public shows that will educate you about our planet and its surrounding universe.

Each show is designed to be immersive and informative. Learn stories behind different stars, how the telescope came to be, and its impact on our knowledge of the planet.

The Pinnacles of Berea

As one of the top hiking spots in Red River Gorge, the Pinnacles of Berea is a must-visit whether you love to hike, picnic, or appreciate breathtaking landscapes. Be prepared for spectacular views from the top. While the climb is challenging, you can overcome it with the proper shoes, water, and snacks. The destination is worth the climb to the Main Lookout, but also make sure you check out Eagle's Nest and Buzzard's Roost.