22 Awesome Things To Do in Red River Gorge

22 Awesome Things To Do in Red River Gorge

1. Underground Kayaking

Underground kayaking in Red River Gorge is one of the most unique things you can do in the area! At The Gorge Underground or SUP Kentucky, you can take a guided kayak tour through a 100-year-old flooded limestone mine. If kayaking isn’t your thing, they also offer tours by boat.

Kayakers can choose between a 1-hour Classic Tour or a 1.5-hour Deluxe Crystal Kayak Glow Tour, which uses glass-bottomed kayaks or SUPs with colorful lights. Both tours explore the same cave, but in different areas. The Classic Tour does cross one area that’s lit up green so you can see the freshwater rainbow trout swimming beneath you at the beginning of the tour.

You’ll want to book your kayaking tour as soon as possible. We booked our tour 6 weeks in advance, and the Deluxe Crystal Kayak Glow Tour was already sold out! Fortunately, the Classic Tour was still available. We really enjoyed the Classic Tour though, so if this happens to you, don’t worry — you’ll still have a great time!

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

2. Natural Bridge

Seeing the Natural Bridge is one of the top things to do in Red River Gorge! The sandstone bridge was formed over millions of years and it’s iconic to the area. The bridge is 30 feet wide, 75 feet long, and hangs 65 feet off the ground.

The bridge can be seen in two ways — by taking the Skylift to the top of it or by hiking to the base of it. If you take the Skylift to the top, you’ll have two different views depending on the path you take. The path to the right will take you to the top of the bridge, where you can walk across it. You’ll also find a staircase leading down to a view of the bridge from underneath. The path to the left will take you on a short trail to Lookout Point. Lookout Point views the bridge at a distance so you can see it as a whole (as opposed to being on top of it or directly underneath it).

The second way to see the bridge is to hike one of the trails that lead to it. The two most popular trails to access the bridge are the Original, Laurel Ridge and Rock Trail Loop and the Natural Bridge via Rock Garden Trail and Devil’s Gulch. Both trails are just under 2.5 miles but have a steep elevation gain of more than 600 feet. Both trails lead to the base of the bridge, and from there you can climb to the top and use the Skylift to go back down (just be sure to grab your tickets before you start the hike if you plan on doing this).

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

3. Skylift to Natural Bridge

Even if you decide to hike to the Natural Bridge, you should still consider taking the Skylift to the top of it so you don’t miss out on the sweeping views of the surrounding forest. The Skylift at Natural Bridge is a 1-mile lift that takes you right to the top of the Natural Bridge. It’s an incredibly scenic and relaxing ride.

We opted to take the Skylift to the bridge instead of hiking to it because we were short on time and had a few other hikes on our list that we really wanted to do. The price for roundtrip Skylift tickets is $17 per adult (13+) and $14 per child. You can also purchase a one-way ticket if you’d prefer to hike back down.

There’s no need (or even a way) to buy tickets in advance. In fact, most of the information found online is inaccurate. Just show up and park, then walk to the ticket counter. The lift is open from March to November each year.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

4. Nada Tunnel

Nada Tunnel is a 900-foot one-way road that was carved through the limestone cliffs of the Red River Gorge in the early 1900s. It’s also known as ‘The Gateway to the Red River Gorge’ because of the scenic view that appears when you exit the tunnel.

The tunnel is dark and ominous from a distance, but as soon as you approach it, you’ll see the light on the other side. It’s only 12 feet wide, so vehicles can only drive through the tunnel one way at a time. It’s common for vehicles to line up on each side and take turns passing through. Be sure to turn your headlights on and drive slowly when it’s your turn.

If you want to snap a picture of the tunnel before driving through, you’ll want to enter from the east, where you’ll find two small pull-offs on the side of the road, just before the entrance. And if you arrive early enough in the morning, you’ll likely have the area all to yourself (like we did!).

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

5. Rock Bridge Trail Loop

The Rock Bridge Trail Loop is one of the most popular hiking trails in Red River Gorge, and after doing it ourselves, we can see why! This trail has everything you could want — a mix of easy and challenging paths, a waterfall, awesome rock formations, and a natural arch that you can walk across!

Rock Bridge Trail Loop is a 1.5-mile loop with an elevation gain of 311 feet. Our biggest tip for this trail is to go counterclockwise (go to the right). There’s a series of steep stairs carved into the rock that you will walk down if you go to the right. If you start on the left, you’ll need to walk up all these stairs at the end of the trail.

Halfway through the trail, you’ll see Creation Falls. It’s a beautiful cascading waterfall and it’s perfectly safe to walk off the trail and get up close to it, so it’s a great spot for pictures. Just past the falls is the rock bridge itself, which is also safe to climb on top of and walk across. It is a bit difficult to climb up to it, but once on top, it’s wide and flat.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

6. Daniel Boone Coffee Shop

The Daniel Boone Coffee Shop is a popular cafe with a huge selection of coffee and caffeinated drinks, handmade baked goods, breakfast specialties, and a gift shop. The first time we tried to get a coffee here, we walked in to see a line of no less than 30 people! We left and returned a few hours later and there were only a few people in line. The drinks were amazing and the selection of gourmet food was impressive.

Aside from the small gift shop inside the cafe, there’s a larger shop next door that sells pottery, jewelry, glass pieces, and other creations from local artisans. They also have glass prints of climbers scaling the local sandstone cliffs, which is a popular souvenir for rock climbers.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

7. Rock Climb in Muir Valley

The Muir Valley Nature Preserve and Climbing Area is a nonprofit nature preserve known for incredible rock climbing. It’s 350 acres and walled in by seven miles of sandstone cliffs that range in height from 20 feet to over 200 feet. The valley is located right in the Red River Gorge and offers more than 400 different climbs.

Muir Valley has only become well known in recent years and currently has 40,000 visitors annually. It continues to grow in popularity and has officially been dubbed ‘Kentucky’s Premier Climbing Destination.’ All climbers enter Muir Valley at their own risk and must sign a waiver to acknowledge the dangers that exist in the Valley. You can sign the waiver and read more about the rules and warnings by clicking here.

There is no admission to Muir Valley, but there is a daily parking fee of $15 per vehicle. They also offer an annual parking pass for $150. Although the nature preserve is large, the parking lot is small, so plan to arrive early to get a spot.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

8. Miguel’s Pizza

Miguel’s Pizza is worth coming to Red River Gorge for alone — it’s amazing! This local hotspot is known for its mouth-watering pizza toppings and laid-back atmosphere. The menu is simple but the choices are complex. There are over 40 toppings to choose from, including specialty options like brisket, pesto drizzle, and even mango salsa! All pizzas can be ordered in quarter size, half size, and full size.

Miguel’s gets crowded and it’s not uncommon to see a line out the door during peak hours. We suggest ordering online for pick up to avoid long wait times. The restaurant has a few seats indoors, but most people choose to sit outside at one of the many picnic tables. Miguel’s also runs a campground and climbing gear shop, so you’ll find plenty of campers hanging out on the property and setting up tents behind the restaurant.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

9. Angel Windows Trail

Angel Windows Trail is a bit of a hidden gem in the Red River Gorge! This 0.6-mile out-and-back trail is really short and easy to complete, and it’s packed with epic views.

The trail gently descends into the forest, with a tall rock wall along the left and open forest on the right. The trail technically ends once you reach the double arches, known as the Angel Windows, but you can continue a short distance past them to see a drizzly waterfall and a unique cave formation. Just be aware of the steep drop-off to the right as you go past the arches.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

10. Chimney Top Rock Trail

Chimney Top Rock Trail is a 0.7-mile out-and-back trail that leads to a sandstone pillar that overlooks the Gorge. The drive to the Chimney Top Rock Trailhead is up a long gravel road that is steep in parts, but our small sedan had no trouble making the journey. This is a very popular trail and traffic can move slowly to get to the parking area.

The view at the end of this trail is beautiful, but it was our least favorite hike that we did in Red River Gorge. It was still worth doing though! It’s very short and has an unparalleled high view of the valley. Many visitors also do the Princess Arch Trail while they’re here, which is another very short trail just on the other side of the parking lot from the Chimney Top Rock Trailhead. Princess Arch Trail does have a small natural arch to view, but the trail and overlook are not as scenic as Chimney Top Rock.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

11. Hollerwood Offroad Adventure

Hollerwood Offroad Adventure has over 2,500 acres of valleys, ridges, and obstacles to tackle, from rocky trails to deep mud bogs. This park is great for both seasoned off-roaders and first-timers. Visitors can use their own off-road vehicles on the trails or rent a 2 or 4-seater for a full or half day.

Hollerwood also offers camping space and has several convenient facilities on site, including showers, a full-service mechanic’s garage, and a food truck. Everyone using their park must purchase a pass. Passes are $5 for 30 days or $20 for a year.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

12. RedPoint Barbeque

Up a winding road that stretches just enough off the beaten path to feel like a secret, RedPoint Barbeque is an amazing restaurant to eat at in Red River Gorge. This isn’t your typical barbeque spot — it’s a full-service restaurant with elevated barbeque dishes and an extensive drink menu.

They have a huge variety of house-smoked meats and lots of delicious sides, like broccoli salad and creamy mac-and-cheese. All of their dishes are served with their famous pickled cucumbers and onions, and their apricot glaze is to die for! The outdoor seating area is also the perfect place to relax after a long day of hiking.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

13. Shelf Waterfall and Swimming Hole

The Shelf Waterfall and Swimming Hole is an odd little spot right along the side of the road by Mill Creek Lake. The waterfall cascades down a series of stone ledges next to a parking lot and ends in a small pool near by the road. Despite the odd location, this is a really popular spot to cool off during the summer.

You can walk the length of the waterfall, but be careful, the rocks are very slippery. The swimming hole is narrow along the edges but deep enough to swim in the middle. It’s also large enough to not feel crowded. The scenic waterfall and rock wall also make it a great spot for a picnic.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

14. Kayak the Red River or Mill Creek Lake

Kayaking along the Red River is one of the great things to do in Red River Gorge! Red River Adventure is the best place to rent a kayak — they rent single kayaks, tandem kayaks, and SUPs by the hour. If you want a true kayaking experience, you’ll want to do their Adventure Tour, where you’ll be shuttled upriver to a boat launch and let loose to paddle downriver, back to the rental office.

Along your paddle, you’ll pass tall rock cliffs, incredible formations, and dense forests. Water levels do need to be high enough for the Adventure Tour though, so if you’re visiting during a dryer time of year, you may need to kayak on Mill Creek Lake instead. This lake is calm and tranquil, so it’s perfect for beginners. Red River Adventure also has rentals for Mill Creek Lake.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

15. Balanced Rock

Balanced Rock Trail is the steepest trail in Red River Gorge and has more than 600 stairs! Despite how challenging it is, it’s still one of the more popular hikes in the area. The forest that surrounds this trail is stunning and feels almost prehistoric. The only negative (besides the many stairs) is the lack of navigational signage.

The trailhead is actually in the middle of the forest so it doesn’t come up on Google Maps. The trick is to park at the Natural Bridge Parking Lot and find the Original Trail Trailhead. Head down this trail and walk along the wooden path until it ends. As soon as it ends, you’ll see the Balanced Rock Trailhead on your left. If you continue straight, you’ll remain on the Original Trail.

Since this trail ends at the Natural Bridge, and there are so many stairs to climb, many hikers choose to take the Skylift up to the top of the Natural Bridge and hike the Balanced Rock Trail back down to the bottom. If you choose to do this and you leave your car in the Skylift parking lot, you’ll have about a 1-mile walk back to your car when you’re done with the trail.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

16. Square Dancing at Hoedown Island

If you want to step outside the box and try something new (we assume), you could try square dancing at Hoedown Island! Square dancing takes place every Saturday night from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm on the outdoor patio owned by Hemlock Lodge. Admission is only $3.00 per person and no dance experience is required.

This tradition, often called the Natural Bridge Hoedown, has been going on for nearly 50 years. Local performances, including clogging, are often part of the Saturday night festivities. If you’re willing to join in on the dancing, a caller will be there to guide you in a mixture of line dancing, square dancing, and clogging.

The easiest way to get to the patio is to park at the Natural Bridge Parking Lot. From there, walk towards the suspension bridge that spans across the river. Continue past the bridge, and down the sidewalk, until you reach the cement patio.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

17. Indian Staircase Trail

If you want a really challenging hike but you’re not ready to try rock climbing yet, the Indian Staircase Trail may be right for you! Indian Staircase Trail is an unofficial 3.1-mile loop that includes a scramble up a steep rocky landscape. This trail should not be attempted by inexperienced hikers! It’s basically rock climbing at a 45-degree angle without equipment. But if you’re confident in your abilities, this is one of the most exhilarating trails in the area.

If you do choose to attempt the Indian Staircase Trail, you’ll want to do some research beforehand. Download an offline map and grab a compass as well. The trail is unofficial so it can be difficult to navigate since there is limited signage. For detailed instructions on the route, click here and read the steps in the description area in the middle of the page.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

18. Red River Gorge Ziplines

Ziplining through the Gorge is one of the best ways to experience the area, and Red River Gorge Ziplines offers the perfect experience. Their tour consists of five different ziplines, with some reaching up to 300 feet off the ground. Their longest line stretches 1,900 feet!

The cost is $99.99 per adult or $89.99 per child for two hours. There is no age restriction, but zipliners must weigh at least 70 lbs and no more than 250 lbs to participate. The company also offers cabin rentals and luxury yurt rentals. If you stay on one of their properties, you’ll get 20% off your ziplining package.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

19. Thrillsville Adventure Park

Thrillsville Adventure Park is an aerial climbing course and mini golf course located right in the heart of Red River Gorge. The aerial course spans 50 feet above the ground and features climbing walls, cargo nets, ziplines, tight ropes, and balance beams. The course ends with a 200-foot zipline back to the ground.

Thrillsville added a brand new mini golf course just recently, and it’s been a huge success. Other than the steep price to play, the course has had rave reviews. Visitors can also schedule their Underground Kayaking tour here, but we recommend booking directly online. Thrillsville also offers cabin rentals (each with a private hot tub).

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

20. Devil’s Gulch

A gulch is a deep and narrow valley that usually has a stream of water running through the base, formed by erosion over millions of years. Devil’s Gulch in Red River Gorge is no exception — it’s a very deep valley with a makeshift set of stairs leading down to the bottom. The stairs are incredibly slippery and narrow, and parts of them will require you to pull yourself up or down with the attached railing.

It’s easier to climb up the Devil’s Gulch than to go down it, but most hikers choose to walk down from the Natural Bridge and will face it from the top. The gulch is accessed via the Laurel Ridge Trail. From the Natural Bridge, you’ll follow the Laurel Ridge Trail until you reach the staircase leading into the Devil’s Gulch.

Once you descend the stairs, you’ll no longer be on an official trail. From here, you’ll look for signs for the Battleship Rock Trail to continue down to Hemlock Lodge or the Natural Bridge Parking Lot.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

21. Horseback Riding

Home to more than 100 natural sandstone arches, towering rock formations, and lush forests, the Red River Gorge is the perfect place for a scenic horseback ride. There are several guided tours available, and riders of all levels can enjoy exploring the area.

We recommend taking a trail tour with Cable’s Riding Stables. This ride will take you on a scenic adventure where your horse will cross over streams, through the mud, and up and down small inclines. Your guides will be knowledgeable about the horses and the Gorge, providing commentary along the way. Cable’s Riding Stables is a bit old school, so you’ll need to call them at (+1) 606-362-4456 to inquire about the tours.

THINGS TO DO IN RED RIVER GORGE

22. Kentucky Reptile Zoo

The Kentucky Reptile Zoo is a really cool thing to do in Red River Gorge (especially for kids) if you’re into cold-blooded creatures. This small zoo was opened in 1990 and is home to over 80 species of reptiles, including venomous snakes, lizards, and turtles. The ticket office is located in a humble barn and the exhibits are all found behind it.

One of the zoo’s main goals is to educate visitors about the importance of reptiles in our ecosystem and dispel common myths about reptiles. In addition to viewing the animals, visitors can also participate in hands-on educational programs, including venom extraction demonstrations and behind-the-scenes tours.

Where is Red River Gorge?

Red River Gorge is located in eastern Kentucky within the Daniel Boone National Forest, just 1 hour from Lexington, 2 hours from Louisville, and 2.5 hours from Cincinnati. The main town within the RRG is Slade, Kentucky.

Red River Gorge is a great place to set up camp for a week, or just spend a couple of days relaxing in nature. If you’re just passing through, you could combine your trip with a stop at Mammoth Cave National Park, the Kentucky Bourbon Trial, or Newport Kentucky.

What is the Best Month to Visit Red River Gorge?

The Red River Gorge is a great place to visit during the spring and fall months. March through June brings mild temperatures, fresh new growth throughout the forests, and gushing waterfalls from the spring rain. October brings a crisp autumn breeze, colorful leaves, and perfect camping conditions.

The summer months in the Gorge are brutal, with extreme heat and humidity. Despite the heat, it’s also the most crowded time of year. On the contrary, winter is harsh and frigid, and it can even be dangerous at times. Many businesses close during the winter, and the area doesn’t have much to offer during the off-season.

Are There Bears at Red River Gorge?

Yes, there are bears in Red River Gorge! Sightings are rare, but the bear population has increased in recent years, so sightings could become more common. The only species of bear you’ll find in Kentucky are Black bears, and they do live in the Daniel Boone National Forest, where RRG is located.

The most recent bear attack on record in Red River Gorge is from 2015. Black bears are not typically aggressive toward humans, but it’s still important to take precautions. You should always make noise when hiking to make bears aware of your presence and consider carrying bear spray. Food storage restrictions are also in place throughout the forest.

With a little caution and awareness, you’ll be able to safely enjoy your time in Red River Gorge, so don’t let bears deter you from visiting. Most bear sightings occur far off the beaten path, as well, so if you stick to popular trails and tourist areas, it’s very unlikely you’ll see one.

Where to Stay in Red River Gorge

Red River Gorge has a few hotels, but the lodging is primarily made up of cabin rentals and campsites. Many cabins are tucked away in the woods and equipped with hot tubs and outdoor fire pits, creating a charming and romantic setting.

On the other hand, there are a ton of basic, if not primitive, options that may not leave you feeling warm and cozy. Be sure to read reviews and compare cabins before choosing your rental.

If you choose to camp, you’ll find plenty of options for an extremely fair price. Some of the top campsites in Red River Gorge include Koomer Ridge, Red River Adventure Campground, and Lago Linda Hideaway. If you’re looking for a younger and more social crowd, try camping at Miguel’s Pizza.

OUR TOP LODGING PICKS IN RED RIVER GORGE

📍Cliffline Twilight Cabin
This bold cabin sits right in the heart of Red River Gorge and gives off enchanting treehouse vibes. With two bedrooms and one bathroom, this cabin is ideal for couples or small groups. Relax in the hot tub nestled in the woods, illuminated by string lights, or gather around the firepit nearby.

📍Serenity Falls Cabin
This secluded cabin is nestled on three private acres. It’s the perfect retreat for nature lovers! With three bedrooms and one bathroom, this cabin offers ample space for families or small groups. Relax in the hot tub on the balcony as you take in the serene forest views, or gather around the firepit for an evening under the stars.

📍Hemlocks Over Muir Cabin
This charming cabin is a peaceful retreat with a cozy but modern vibe that overlooks Muir Valley. It has an open floor plan with two bedrooms and one bathroom, ideal for couples or small groups. Relax in the hot tub on the deck, which faces the tranquil woods, or build a fire and unwind after a day of adventure.

Final Thoughts: Red River Gorge

There are so many awesome things to do in Red River Gorge! It’s an amazing destination and lives up to its reputation of being a perfect spot for nature lovers. Whether you want to camp, hike, kayak, or just relax for a weekend, Red River Gorge is a great place to visit. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did!

OUR TOP FIVE FAVORITE THINGS AT RRG

• ➡️ Hiking
• ➡️ Underground Kayaking
• ➡️ Skylift at Natural Bridge
• ➡️ Miguel’s Pizza
• ➡️ Nada Tunnel

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