Welcome to The Gorge
The Red River Gorge Geological Area spans 29,000 acres and is a National Natural Landmark and Archeological District in eastern Kentucky. But for the locals and hundreds of visitors who arrive each year, it’s affectionately known as the Gorge – nature’s playground and wilderness retreat.
Autumn is one of the most beautiful times of the year to visit the Gorge due to the vibrant colors, crisp temperatures, and fewer crowds.
Let’s go exploring!
The Red River is the only river in Kentucky officially designated as part of the National Wild and Scenic River System, making it a popular spot for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.
SEPTEMBER SONG
JERRY ISON
Yep, it’s September again. Already. We’ve just let another summer slip by without visiting the Grand Canyon. Without getting the yard in shape or spending that weekend at the beach. Lots of folks think of September in just that way; the month when we reaize summer is over.
Not me! I like to think of Setember as sort of a pre-game show. The lead-in to Autumn.
Sure, there are still some days to come when the temperature and humidity will be high enough to keep us indoors with the AC on full-tilt. The saving factor will be the nights with their end-of-summer “freezing” temperatures of 45-50 degrees.
These are the days of feasting on fresh, home grown tomatoes and green beans. Cantaloupes, bell peppers and corn on the cob. Those poor souls in the produce section this time of year are the unfortunate ones. Those without the means for a garden or unlucky enough to be without friends who garden.
Now is the time for getting the gear ready for the hunting season to start. For planning the tailgate parties; opening day kick-off is imminent. County fair time. Back to school and year-end close-out sales time.
There is still time for that last-summer visit to the Lake. For deciding if you are
going to split firewood this year or buy it. And choosing new sweaters for that sprint across the mall parking lot in late November with those Christmas packages.
There’s enough coolness in the late evening breeze to make you want to get out those fall tour brochures and map of the Blue Ridge Parkway. But still not enough to cause worry about the coolant level in the family car.
Here in Eastern Kentucky, we have the great fortune to experience this wonderful, slow transition period. A time for re-adjustment without the sudden change from warm to cold less fortunate areas must suffer. We get to appreciate the
alternating warm days and cool nights all the way through October.
Oh, we’ll have a real live, gen-u-wine, painted on the trees, leaf-droppin’ autumn, but that’s still down the road a ways. There’s still plenty of time left for us to take advantage of one of those sales. Time enough to get the best deal on a bright plaid flannel shirt to wear on the Halloween hayride.
The Best of Red River Gorge
VISITING RED RIVER GORGE IN
THE FALL
Warm yellows and vibrant reds become the backdrop for exploring the Red River Gorge during the fall months. Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures make this time of year a favorite for hikers, climbers, and any folks looking for unique outdoor experiences.
Explore the numerous natural sandstone arch formations and limestone cliffs that line the Gorge. Whether you’re hiking the trails or kayaking down the river, you’ll find unforgettable views and make lasting memories.
Spend a cozy, romantic weekend in a private cabin or stay in a lodge big enough for the whole family. No matter who you’re traveling with, a fall adventure in the Gorge is sure to be a beautiful one.
ADVENTURE
Zipline above the vibrant autumn trees, paddle your way through underground caverns, or take an exciting offroading tour.
Thrilling adventures and family fun are all just around the corner in The Red River Gorge.
If you’re looking for a getaway that includes unique outdoor activities in a stunning wilderness landscape, you’ve come to the right place. The Red River Gorge is host to a number of activities for serious nature enthusiasts and fun loving families alike.
Find your next adventure right here in the Gorge!
FAMILY FUN
Take the whole family golfing at the Gorge’s newest mini-golf course, Thrillsville Adventure Golf! This family-friendly, wheelchair accessible course is brimming with nature-themed features. After you’ve played through the course, grab the kids and head
next door to meet the adorable animals at Kate’s Kritters Petting Zoo. Take a break from hiking with a fun and educational Kentucky Cave Boat Tour. Families with children ages 3 and up can enjoy this boat ride through a 100-year-old spring-fed limestone mine. Your tour guide will share the rich history and hidden secrets of the Gorge while you sit back and enjoy well-lit views of the cavern.
OFF-ROADING + DRIVING TOURS
Book a tour with Out the Top Adventures and go beyond the beaten path. Explore the more
rugged parts of the Red River Gorge with an Off-Road Jeep Tour or UTV Tour. Visitors can choose to drive a modified Jeep Rubicon (or bring their own!) or an easy-to-drive Polaris RZV UTV. For drivers who prefer a smoother ride, book a Slingshot Tour and see the Gorge’s most beautiful highlights from behind the wheel of a Polaris Slingshot SL. This unique, three-wheeled roadster – parracecar, part motorcycle, will guide you through a programmed route on the scenic, paved roads of the Gorge.
ON THE WATER
Glide along the Red River or paddle your way through a mine! Red River Gorge Kayaking offers both rentals and self-guided tours that will take you along some of the most scenic areas of the Gorge. Choose from a selection of family-friendly or adventure tours. Experience a variety of underground boating, kayaking, or stand up paddleboard tours with The Gorge Underground. You’ll see the Gorge in a new light with the Crystal Clear Kayak or SUP tours, which take you through LED -lighted caverns on see-through kayaks and boards.
SOAR ABOVE THE GORGE
Soar through the air above the autumnpainted trees with Red River Gorge Ziplines Speed along one of the fastest ziplines in Kentucky, or race your friends with two side-by-side lines. Experienced guides will make sure you’re having fun and staying safe in the air.
Ziplines not quite high enough for you? Take a helicopter tour for a true birds-eye-view of the Gorge! Choose between a quick flight with the Natural Bridge Heli Tour or a longer flight full of scenic views with the Red River Gorge Extensive Heli Tour. Both tours can accommodate up to three people of all ages.
GOLF
9-hole Beattyville Country Club, built in 1965, sits on the outskirts of historic Beattyville, Kentucky – just south of Red River Gorge. With the course’s unique design, it can challenge even the best golfers, while offering you the most enjoyable round of golf in the hills of Eastern Kentucky.
OCTOBER SYMPHONY
JERRY ISON
We are fortunate to live here where we can experience four different seasons. The crisp, glittering cold of winter. The airy pastels of a fresh green spring. The fullness and deep green of summer.
The glorious display of fall.
For many of us, however, autumn is the season we most appreciate. Cool, comfortable evenings and a more gentle, softer glow from the sun. Autumn is the canvas for nature’s most brilliant brush strokes. The yellows and golds of the buckeye and cottonwoods. The silver, purple and red of the sweet gum.
Countless shades of red, running from barely orange sassafras leaves, through the brownish rust of oaks and syc mores, to the brilliant scarlet of sugar maples and dogwoods.
This colorful display is not only for trees, many other plants get in on the act. Some grasses turn beautiful shades of yellow and gold. Poison ivy leaves develoep reds so vibrant, they sometimes appear metallic.
What causes this marvelous transformation? How are the color of the different plants and trees determined? Scientists, botanist and biologists have many answers and logical reasons as to why all the colorization takes places. They talk of loss of chlorophyll - the green stuff in plants. There’s mention of the yellow agents, carotene and xanthophyll. They bring up the cooler nights and bright sunshine of autumn days as causes for chemical changes which result in color changes. There’s usually mention of the red pigments, anthocyanins, formed when natural sugar, glucose, is trapped in a dying leaf.
Oh yes, no scientific discussion of the leaves of autumn would be complete
without mention of abscission. This is what gives the term “fall” meaning. Abscission is the process which causes trees to lose their leaves. Or at least, so say those scientists.
I have a completely different version. In my version, the coloring and eventual dropping of the leaves is a carefully orchestrated performance. Much like the fireworks finale at one of the many Fall Festivals. It’s the Creator’s way, and so obviously so, of topping off His magnificent performance the preceding season - summer.
That was a tough act to follow but to me, autumn is the cymbal at the end of summer’s crescendo.
T HE COLORING AND EVENTUAL DROPPING OF THE LEAVES IS A CAREFULLY ORCHESTRATED PERFORMANCE.
Lodging
With cozy cabins nestled in the towering trees and luxurious yurts offering a unique blend of comfort and adventure, there’s room for everyone in the Red River Gorge. Find the lodging you need for your next romantic weekend, group getaway, or family vacation.
Check out Red River Gorge Cabin and Yurt rentals here !
RESORTS AND INNS
Cliffview Resort blends the benefits of modern conveniences with the scenic views and natural serenity of Eastern Kentucky. Rent a private room in The Lodge or book a Large Group Cabin for your next group event.
Three Rivers Inn is a boutique hotel Located in Beattyville, KY, just 20 minutes from the trails and activities of the Red River Gorge and Natural Bridge State Park. Choose from one of eight custom-designed, internationally -themed rooms. Red River Gorge Inn is perfect for travelers needing a clean, comfortable place to relax after a long day of exploring the Gorge. Choose from several room types to suit your needs, including wheelchair-accessible options.
CAMPGROUND RENTALS
Natural Bridge Campground is minutes away from many of the must-see attractions of the Red River Gorge. Choose from tent camping, primitive campsites, RV sites, and cabin rentals. Bathroom and shower facilities and electrical hookups make your camping experience comfortable and convenient.
Re-Lode Cabins & Campground is steps away from the Motherlode crag and close by other premier Red River Gorge climbing areas. Cabin rentals, tent camping, and RV sites are available. Make this your basecamp when you plan your climbing trip to the Gorge.
Land of the Arches Campground has 99 sites and can accommodate individual and group
camping. Large indoor spaces, a shared kitchen, bathrooms, showers and free wifi make this a great location for boy scouts and large group camping events. Visit the nearby Daniel Boone National Park and Natural Bridge State Park for hiking, fishing and wildlife watching.
Riverside Campground is the only campground located inside the Gorge and on the Red River. Situated along the Red River, inside the protected Daniel Boone National Forest and only minutes from the famous Nada Tunnel, outdoor enthusiasts will love the convenience of this campground.
CABINS AND YURTS
Find your next vacation rental with Red River Gorge Cabins. With over 125 cabins, lodges, and yurts available, you’ll find an option for every group and budget, from rustic retreats to luxury getaways. Find lodging for groups of 2-40 guests, pet-friendly locations, and more when you book with Red River Gorge Cabins.
Resort Rooms Inns
RED RIVER GORGE AREA HISTORY
Now that you are here, a little about the Red River Gorge.
The Gorge history dates back more than four hundred million years to when Africa slammed into North America creating the Appalachian Mountains.
Millions of years later sediment washed down from Pennsylvania and formed the sandstone that is the defining feature of the gorge cliffs. These cliffs are unique and are the reason the Gorge is one of the most highly regarded areas for climbing with 3,000+ clifflines in the Daniel Boone National Forest alone.
Just after the Glacier retreated about 12,000 years ago, people moved into the Gorge. Those people are known to archeologists as the Paleo Indians. At that time, the weather was cooler and the gorge was mostly covered with evergreens. Wooly mammoths, giant bison and mastodons were plentiful and hunted by these early people using only spears tipped with stone points. It is believed they hunted by stampeding those large beasts over cliffs. These and later groups of ancient people had the gorge to themselves for about ten thousand years. Around four hundred years ago, they began trading with Europeans and 100 years later the area became the state
of Kentucky. Three hundred years later, here you are!
So, get out there and experience the joy of the Gorge. Take a hike, climb a cliff, Zip through the beautiful forests, catch a fish (but be sure to release it unharmed), grill some burgers, whatever. Don’t let this opportunity to appreciate one of Nature’s finest examples of her best work pass by.
While you and your family are enjoying this handiwork, remember there will be others to follow and they too would love to experience the Gorge in it’s natural and as pristine state as did you. The rule is simple, leave nothing behind except footprints (And please, leave those only on designated trails), take nothing but photographs and pleasant memories.
Cabin Rentals
Camping
Yurt Rentals
Large Group Cabins
Retail + Dining
Fuel up for your adventures with a delicious meal or bring home a unique souvenir from local artists.
EAT
Stop in and fuel up with a home-cooked breakfast or lunch at the Cliffview Cafe. Cliffview Cafe serves locals and visitors alike in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Grab a breakfast burrito to go or stop in for a relaxing lunch with your family.
Taste the legacy of Appalachian moonshining when you visit Red River Gorge Distilled Spirits. Nothing will warm you up on a chilly fall evening like a moonshine flight and a bowl of legendary, family-owned Empress Chili.
Relax on the patio, enjoy live music, and indulge in delicious food at La Cabaña Mexican Restaurant. Conveniently located in the heart of the Red River Gorge, the restaurant and bar are open daily. Be sure to stop in after your next adventure!
Kentucky agate was designated as the official state rock of Kentucky in 2000 due to its local significance and beauty.
SHOP
Stop in at the Red River Gorge General Store for everything you need to make your next vacation fun and delicious. You’ll find everything from ice cream treats and unique souvenirs to grocery staples and outdoor gear. Don’t forget to grab some homemade fudge to sweeten the road trip home!
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At the Red River Gorge Gift Shop (onsite at Thrillsville Adventure Golf), you’ll find great prices on souvenirs, apparel, snacks, and even firewood! While you’re there, the friendly staff
can help you book other Gorge activities with their partner brands.
Looking for souvenirs that will remind you of the natural beauty of the Gorge? The Earth Shop stocks an extensive collection of local artwork, unique gifts, and a collection of natural crystals and minerals from all over the world. Purchase a bucket of hand-picked crystals and minerals that can be scooped out, sifted through, and identified at the fun and interactive “gem mine.”
Group Reservations
Relax on a girl’s weekend, bond with team-building activities, or plan a memorable corporate conference. Make reservations for an unforgettable group event in the Red River Gorge!
The lack of light pollution makes Cliffview Resort an excellent spot for stargazing on clear nights.
GROUP LODGING MADE SIMPLE
Host an event in the Red River Gorge that will satisfy everyone in your group. Pick the perfect place to stay, whether you’re planning for a thrill-seeking bachelor party or an office team-building weekend.
Find a diverse range of lodging options catering to all preferences and budgets with Red River Gorge Cabin Rentals. You’ll be able
to choose from rustic cabins nestled in the woods or luxurious lodges with stunning views.
Plan your next event with the help of the hospitable team at Cliffview Resort! Spacious accommodations and versatile venues can comfortably house large groups while providing easy access to the area’s natural wonders and activities.
Say “I Do” in the Red River Gorge with your dream wedding venue.
The Red River Gorge provides a breathtaking natural backdrop for couples seeking an unforgettable wedding experience.
}Hemlock Springs is an accessible and beautiful forest ceremony site that allows for dreamy wedding photos without sacrificing guest comfort or logistical simplicity. An indoor reception area with nature-inspired design is available for couples seeking a balance between outdoor charm and indoor convenience.
Cliffview Weddings offers elegant and affordable wedding packages that include venue, reception, lodging, and more. With three ceremony spaces and two reception areas to choose from, couples will be sure to find their dream wedding location at Cliffview.
Real Estate
Owning property in the Red River Gorge is an investment that will pay dividends right away. Partner with Paragon Realty Partners at the Gorge to buy or build a vacation home that will garner substantial returns in the region’s booming vacation rental market. With so many great locations to buy in the Gorge, there are opportunities available at the right price for every investor.
VACATION RENTALS MADE EASY
Investing in a vacation rental property in the Gorge has never been so easy or lucrative. We’re with you every step of the way.
1. Purchase Your Property: Find the perfect vacation home or buy a lot in one of our beautiful new developments.
2. Build Your Home: Using our network of contractors, architects, and designers, build the getaway home of your dreams.
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3. List Your New Rental: Partner with the team at Red River Gorge Cabin Rentals for full service property management that handles listings, cleaning maintenance, and more.
KENTUCKY LUCKY
JERRY ISON
“If you’re lucky enough to be in the mountains, you’re lucky enough!”
That’s a phrase you hear a lot around the Red River Gorge Area. Not only is that the absolute truth, but it gets even better if you’re an “outdoorsy person”.
Yessir it does. Not only do we have the most beautiful scenery in existence, we also have great weather which makes all outdoors enjoyable year round. We have some of the best and most diverse hunting, fishing, hiking and water sports opportunities in America; everything from whitewater rafting to lazy evenings listening to the crickets and mockingbirds.
The rivers and streams are teeming with trout and bluegill, maybe the two tastiest game fish to be found. Since you pull ‘em from the fast running cold mountain waters, they are original “organic” food. We have wild turkeys
and deer so plentiful you may spot either or both almost anywhere.
If you’re a birder, this is definitely the place to be. Here in Eastern Kentucky, there are at least 200 species of birds. An afternoon of sippin’ sweet tea out on one of the verandas of the Lodge, Retreat or Lakeside is an opportunity to enjoy 30 or more without getting up from the swings.
Take a quick drive up into the Natural Bridge Resort Park and there’s a chance to glimpse 100 or more additional species in one afternoon. Many can be observed while enjoying fine dining in the Sandstone Arches Restaurant.
When you decide to ditch the car or bicycle, we have the best trails for hiking you’ve ever, well, hiked! Stop in the office for a map of some of the hundreds of hiking trails in the Gorge.
{The Gorge boasts over 60 miles of designated hiking trails, with paths for all skill levels. Trails range from easy walks to challenging, rugged routes through forests, cliffs, and gorges.
