Red river gorge location Get ready for some fun on this unique Red River Gorge underground Crystal Clear Kayak and SUP glow adventure. . The Red River Gorge is a canyon system on the Red River in east-central Kentucky, United States. Jun 18, 2025 · Red River Gorge is one of Kentucky’s best-kept secrets — perfect for hikers, climbers, and outdoor adventurers. May 8, 2025 · Discover the hidden rock cities of Kentucky's Red River Gorge, a natural wonderland filled with breathtaking formations and adventure. Red River Gorge | Slade | Natural Bridge Explore the Red River Gorge and all that this beautiful region has to offer. The stone arches here are not just geological wonders but also gateways to unforgettable experiences. Indigenous peoples even used some of the Explore the Red River Gorge. The Red River is a 97. If you’re after free camping, you’ll find plenty of dispersed camping sites scattered through the Daniel Boone National Forest. The river carved innumerable sandstone arches across the 29,000 acres the gorge is spread over. For up to date information either stop in the Ranger District Office, visit their website or telephone: (859) 745-3100. You can reach Natural Bridge by short hike along a well-maintained trail, or by Sky Lift. The gorge lies within the Daniel Boone National Forest and was subsequently designated the Red River Gorge Geological Area, an area of around 29,000 acres (12,000 ha; 120 km 2; 45 sq mi). They Explore Red River Gorge with an interactive map featuring attractions, activities, and more to plan your perfect vacation. The park features Jul 10, 2025 · Red River Gorge Kentucky Boondocking Locations: Red River Gorge in Kentucky is just one of those places that makes you want to ditch the city for a while. Want to find the best trails in Red River Gorge Geological Area for an adventurous hike or a family trip? AllTrails has 67 great trails for hiking, camping, and walking and more. At nearly 9 miles long, this epic day hike travels through some of the Sheltowee Trace Trails best known landmarks within the gorge including; Cloud Splitter, Sheltowee Twin Windows, Indian Arch, Adena Arch, Council Chamber Rockshelter, Shawnee Arch Area Map and Location Information US Forest Service’s website for information on hiking in the Red River Gorge. Hiking through the lush forests, you’ll find yourself surrounded by breathtaking views and diverse wildlife. Encompassing approximately 29,000 acres within the Daniel Boone National Forest, this geological wonder attracts outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Some are great for families and novices as they are relatively easy to access and enjoy, one of the easier and more enjoyable hikes is Hidden Arch. Aug 12, 2022 · 12 Top Things to Do in Red River Gorge, Kentucky. These maps are ideal for hiking or other outdoor recreation pursuits in the Red River Gorge and Cave Run Lake areas. Natural Bridge State Resort Park, adjacent to Red River Gorge Geological Area, is administered by Kentucky Dept. All hikes include maps, directions to trailheads, points of interest, and of course, plenty of photos of these beautiful places. Nada Tunnel is a historic 900-foot (270 m) long tunnel along Kentucky Route 77 in Powell County, Kentucky, in the United States. The area is a popular destination for backcountry camping, canoeing, hiking, and rock climbing. Perfect for couples, families, or solo adventurers, this leisurely float invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy the simple pleasure of nature in its most vibrant season. Explore miles of rugged hiking trails, scale world-renowned climbing routes, or soar through the treetops on a thrilling zipline tour. Jan 25, 2024 · Of the many trails in Red River Gorge, the Chimney Top and Princess Arch trails are two of the easiest. Mar 13, 2025 · Discovering the Magic of Red River Gorge Kentucky's Red River Gorge offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adventure. The USDA Forest Office is located in Winchester, Kentucky about an hour from Red River Gorge. Its stunning landscapes, steep cliffs, and pristine waters make it a prime location for various outdoor recreational activities, especially kayaking. At home in Natural Bridge State Park, the arch is one of the most famous and widely natural landmarks in the state. In Eastern Kentucky, this scenic area is known for its spectacular rock formations and sandstone arches. Red River Gorge also offers ziplining and petting zoos. Choose from cabins with fireplaces and breathtaking views, or head out into activities like ice skating on frozen fields below snow-capped hiking trails - it's all available here at Red River Gorge Cabin Getaways our destination for favorable temperatures year round!. Minutes from the Red River Gorge Geological Area in Kentucky, Natural Bridge is an impressive sandstone rock bridge that stands 65 feet high and spans 78 feet in length. The Red River Gorge, within the Daniel Boone National Forest, is home to a rich variety of tree species, including beech, sugar maples, white pines, hemlock, several types of oak, and hickory. Top 10 Top 7 Camping (and backpacking) Sites in Red River Gorge Top 10 Hidden or Secret Hikes in Red River Gorge (unmarked trails) Hikes in Red River Gorge Double Arch, Star Gap Arch, and Arch of Triumph (5. Hiking in Red River Gorge is one of the main reasons visitors come from all over. Abundant wildlife, lush vegetation, magnificent scenery and numerous recreation opportunities offer visitors much to enjoy. Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge State Park have a wide variety of outdoor activities including scenic hiking and horseback riding trails, kayaking and ziplining adventures, and restaurants with delicious Kentucky barbecue and bourbon. Jul 9, 2025 · The Gorge is also home to the federally-designated Wild and Scenic Red River and Clifty Wilderness. It’s a large place with many fun activities to enjoy, especially if you’re an outdoor enthusiast. Jan 10, 2023 · Tucked away in the gorgeous Daniel Boone National Forest, Red River Gorge is a marvel of nature. 7 miles- unmarked) Cherokee Arch, Rat Windows, and Mushroom Arch (2. Red River Gorge, located in Slade, Kentucky, is a breathtaking natural area renowned for its stunning sandstone cliffs, natural arches, and diverse ecosystems. Red River Gorge Overview Red River Gorge, located in the Daniel Boone National Forest of Kentucky, is a stunning natural area renowned for its unique rock formations, abundant wildlife, and scenic beauty. Apr 7, 2021 · For decades, the Red River Gorge in Kentucky was quietly celebrated mainly for its world-class climbing, but word of this area's beauty has spread. With more than 100 arches, towering sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and old-growth forests, it is easy to see why it has been designated a National Geological Area, National Natural Landmark, and National Archeological District. There are plenty of things to do in Red River Gorge, making it a perfect getaway. We offer premium land & cabins for sale, too! The 9,000-acre Red River Gorge in The Kentucky Wildlands is a geological wonder featuring over 100 natural sandstone arches, sandstone cliffs, waterfalls. Red River Gorge Kayaking Overview The Red River Gorge is an incredible outdoor location nestled in Kentucky’s Daniel Boone National Forest. You Dec 23, 2024 · Kentucky’s Red River Gorges is a rock climbing destination, but did you know it’s also full of incredible hiking trails? The Red River Gorge offers tons of different trails for all skill levels, including arches, swimming holes, and waterfalls. 4 km) [2] tributary of the Kentucky River in east-central Kentucky in the United States. Kayak peaceful rivers, hike past rushing waterfalls, dig into pizza (Miguel's Pizza is legendary around these parts!) and then sleep in your very own … treehouse. These formations, carved by time and weather, provide unique hiking experiences and photo opportunities. Strap on your boots, let's hit the trails! This page has just about everything you need to plan your next adventure in Red River Gorge. Camping, hiking and fishing are just a few of the many attractions that draw more than one million visitors to the forest each year. Take out on an adventure with your friends or loved ones and enjoy anything from the mild to the extreme. Feb 12, 2025 · Discover the Magic of Kentucky's Red River Gorge Kentucky's Red River Gorge offers a unique blend of natural beauty, adventure, and tranquility. Take a group photo at the tunnel entrance next to the "Red River Gorge Geological Area" sign. Aug 19, 2022 · Spend your days exploring the many facets of Red River Gorge. The Red River Gorge is a scenic natural area that is located in eastern Kentucky, within the boundaries of the Daniel Boone National Forest. It’s surrounded by dripping greenery – bushes Our first trip takes us to Eastern Kentucky’s beautiful Red River Gorge, an outdoor wonderland offering endless fun. 0 miles- unmarked) Indian Staircase and Indian Arch Loop (3. The Nada Tunnel looks like a hole that has been carved into the side of a mountain. Surrounded by the majestic cliffs and colorful hardwood forests of the Red River Gorge, you’ll gently glide along calm waters beneath a canopy of turning leaves. Discover cabins in Red River Gorge, KY. For anyone visiting Red River Gorge, you don’t want to skip these two hikes. [1] . Keep an eye out for rainbow trout who often follow the tour. Apr 11, 2025 · Cave Run Lake and Red River Gorge maps are large fold-out plastic maps containing trail locations and topographic information at a scale of 1:24,000. The Red River Gorge and the recreation sites below are located on the Cumberland Ranger District. Each year brings a record number of visitors to the 45-square-mile geological area. Step into the heart of Daniel Boone National Forest and the Red River Gorge Geologic Area to discover ancient rock formations, a diverse ecosystem, and unspoiled beauty. [1][2] Formerly a railway tunnel, the tunnel has often been described as the "Gateway to Red River Gorge" for the shortcut it provides motorists to the Red River Gorge canyons of the Daniel Boone National Forest. Located adjacent to the Daniel Boone National Forest, near the Red River Gorge Geological Area, the bridge spans 78 feet and is 65. If you’re lucky, you’ll see a Kentucky brown bat taking a rest on the limestone walls. The gorge's unique rock formations, including over 100 natural stone arches, make it a haven Located throughout the Red River Gorge, we offer dozens of cabins and yurt rentals for vacation travelers. The Nada Tunnel, also known as The Gateway to The Red River Gorge, is a must-see when taking a vacation in Kentucky. Check out our resources to find info about all the natural wonders of the region. It offers lodge rooms, cabins, dining facilities, and two developed campgrounds. You’ll find it in eastern Kentucky, where dramatic rock formations, sandstone arches, and scenic overlooks stretch across the landscape. Kentucky’s Red River Gorge boasts incredible hiking trails, rock climbing lines, kayaking trips and more! Check out the best things to do at Red River Gorge. The region is part of the Daniel Boone National Forest and covers about 29,000 acres. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore many scenic outlooks, stone arches, and unique rock formations. Turn on lights; we had to honk our horn as another car approached the tunnel at the end. There's a pull off for the sign as well as waiting for cars to come through. Explore Red River Gorge in Kentucky: top hikes, arches, scenic drive, climbing & more in Daniel Boone National Forest. May 30, 2025 · Discover the hidden beauty and secrets of Kentucky's Red River Gorge streams, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It is home to some of the most impressive natural May 3, 2025 · Discover the hidden river gorges of Kentucky's Red River Gorge, a natural wonder offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and adventure. The park features rooms, cottages, restaurant, bar and miles of hiking trails. While the nearby Natural Bridge State Park offers a more curated outdoor experience, the nationally designated Clifty Wilderness area of Red River Gorge remains In This Post, I'm Going to Show You The 23 Best Things to do in Red River Gorge Kentucky as Well as How to Properly Explore This Amazing Area. Sep 5, 2025 · Become a Friend Friends of New River Gorge National Park and Preserve supports the management of the New, Gauley, and Bluestone Rivers in Southern WV. It has taken nature millions of years to form the natural sandstone arch from which this park takes its name. Known for its abundant natural stone arches, unusual rock formations, and spectacular sandstone cliffs, the Red River Gorge was designated as a Geological Area by the Forest Service in 1974. The best hikes in Red River Gorge are known for its natural stone arches, bizarre rock formations, and breathtaking sandstone cliffs. Geologically it is part of the Pottsville Escarpment. May 9, 2022 · Cabins & Airbnbs to Elope at in Red River Gorge One question I get the more I photograph weddings in Red River Gorge is, “Where can we have our wedding?!” A lot of the couples I work with aren’t having big weddings, so they don’t need a whole wedding venue, but they still want a place to g Explore Campton, Kentucky with a guided UTV Tour from Out the Top Adventures. This geological wonder stretches for over 100 miles and is home to more than 100 natural sandstone arches, making it a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers alike. Via the Kentucky and Ohio rivers, it is part of the Mississippi River watershed. If you love the idea of a full-color guide in print, check out the book, Hiking Kentucky’s Red River Gorge. Search rentals by date and guest count, sign up for deals, and explore exclusive cabin lot opportunities. You can see straight through the tunnel so it's easy to tell if it's clear. Others are more appropriate for experienced hikers. Visitors can explore the natural wonders of the Red River Gorge Geological Area by travelling along the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway. 2-mile-long (156. The The Cloud Splitter to Indian Staircase Loop in Red River Gorge is a bucket list hike every experienced hiker aches to cross off their bucket list. Click to find the some of the top trails in the area. Hikes in Red River Gorge These hikes are published here represent a variety of half day and full day hikes in Red River Gorge area. The Daniel Boone National Forest offers an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. With cozy cabins, breathtaking winter views, and outdoor adventures, it’s the ideal place to relax, recharge, and celebrate this holiday season. Nov 21, 2022 · One of the iconic RRG landmarks is the Sheltowee Trace Suspension Bridge across the Red River! There is a parking lot designated to this "connector trail" right off of Route 715 (it branches off the road downhill and is gravel). Ready for your next hike or bike ride? Explore one of 7 easy hiking trails in Red River Gorge Geological Area that are great Located near the Red River Gorge Geological Area, the natural sandstone arch bridge spans 78 feet and is 65 feet high. Hooting Owl Homestead Red River Gorge, KY Discover tranquility at Hooting Owl Homestead, a serene escape nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Red River Gorge, KY, and the captivating Daniel Boone National Forest. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, dive into local favorites like Miguel’s Pizza, The Brick at Red River, or Thatcher’s BBQ. The Gorge attracts outdoor enthusiasts with its popular hiking trails, rock climbing, and wildlife viewing. Whether you're hiking through lush forests, exploring hidden caves, or marveling at stunning rock formations, this destination has something for everyone. Looking for the perfect location for a magical winter getaway in Kentucky? The Red River Gorge is one of the most scenic and peaceful destinations to visit during the colder months. The kids will love the mystery and the grown-ups will love the history, making it one of the most suitable places to visit for the whole family. We saved them for last, and they were the The Red River Gorge is a unique and scenic natural area within the Daniel Boone National Forest in eastern Kentucky - roughly one hour east of Lexington. 5 miles Nov 27, 2025 · The Great Escape is conveniently located near Natural Bridge State Park and the Red River Gorge and sleeps 4 adults, It has 2 bedrooms with queen size beds, 1 full bathroom, and city water. Enjoy hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos from nature lovers like you. Red River Gorge is famous for its Mar 22, 2025 · Best Time to Visit: Late summer for clear skies and long days Discover the Hidden Beauty of Kentucky's Red River Gorge Kentucky's Red River Gorge offers more than just scenic views; it hides sandstone arches that are true natural wonders. This is a newer cabin and totally updated with 2 large flat screen tv’s, Dish network Television with 120+ channels, Alexa, and Wi Fi internet. Both are less than a mile in total and can be done quickly. Hiking and Rock Climbing is what Red River Gorge is famous for, but some of the other things you can do are Swimming, Fishing, Kayaking, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Zip The Red River Gorge of Kentucky includes the Red River Gorge Geological Area, Clifty Wilderness Area, and Natural Bridge State Park. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world as you move through the cool, damp air, listening to the sounds of water dripping and marveling at the stunning cave-like rock formations. Oct 31, 2025 · Explore the serene swimming holes of Kentucky's Red River Gorge, offering refreshing waters, breathtaking views, and outdoor adventure near Lexington and Nada. With over 600 miles of trails and more than 150 natural bridges, the Gorge offers nonstop adventure. Need help finding The Gorge? We've got you covered! Get directions from popular cities and towns nearby. Kayaking in this picturesque region allows adventurers to navigate through the lush wilderness, explore May 29, 2025 · The Red River Gorge geological area spans approximately 29,000 acres, primarily situated within Daniel Boone National Forest. Gorge Underground tours offer a thrilling opportunity to experience a historic mine system near the Red River Gorge. of Parks. Nov 3, 2025 · Red River Gorge, located in the east-central part of Kentucky, is a stunning natural area renowned for its beautiful landscapes, unique geological formations, and thrilling outdoor activities. Red River Gorge is home to some of the best hiking in Kentucky. And there are right next to each other, so you can do both at the same time, without having to move your car. Red River Gorge is a beautiful and rugged natural area located in eastern Kentucky, known for its striking sandstone arches, cliffs, and dense forests. [3][4] Built for the Dana Lumber Company between 1910 Mar 19, 2021 · Red River Gorge: The ‘Grand Canyon Of Kentucky’ Is A True Hidden Gem Red River Gorge in Kentucky offers exceptional outdoor recreation, including hiking, climbing, and camping, within the stunning Daniel Boone National Forest.