The Official (only!) Newspaper of The Red River Gorge
The Adventure of a Lifetime Awaits!
I’m Kentucky Lucky - born and bred rat cheer in these beautiful mountains. However, I’m of the mind that after you have been here a few days, you just might agree with me. No, I take that back, I’m betting you will agree. R RR Red River Gorge Glamp ed River Gorge Glamp River Gorge Glamp ed River Gorge Glamp Camp & Red River Adventure Red River
Glamp camping isn’t necessarily a new trend, but seems to keep on growing in popularity, particularly in areas where nature takes the stage. While the Red River Gorge area offers world class climbing, hiking, and sightseeing opportunities, lodging availability within walking distance to these points of interest has been difficult to find in the past.
Situated on rare private property inside the Red River Gorge geological area, outdoor enthusiasts will find a true, woodsy escape into what glamp camping has to offer with multiple levels of comfort options headed up by a local, experienced company. Located in the protected Daniel Boone National Forest at the intersection of KY 77 and KY 715 (Tarr Ridge Road), the Red River Gorge Glamp Camp and sister-site, Red River Adventure Kayaking & Campground, are providing guests with unforgettable stays amongst some of the most beautiful country in the world.
Three luxury glampers are perched along Duncan Branch as well as four other smaller glamping wagons on the Red River side of the adventure campground.
There’s sure to be something for anyone looking to experience a harmonious mix of both comfort and adventure.
For information regarding availability visit redrivergorgevacations.com (lodging/campgrounds).
Okay, maybe I was a just a tad over the top. You know, slightly, a wee bit, somewhat excessively exuberant. But then again, maybe not.
Here in the Red River Gorge Area, you can explore, enjoy and appreciate the country’s most diverse and unforgettable vacation destination. Of course that’s just my opinion and I do admit to a bias.
A AA A Geological Superlative Geological Superlative Superlative Superlative
Geological: of or pertaining to the physical features of an area. Superlative: the highest degree or level of something, or the best or most extreme.
For a long time I have been trying to find the perfect description for the Red River Gorge Geological Area.
The first thought was awesome, but that word has seen too much use to have the oomph I wanted.
Next came the “W’ words such as wondrous, wonderful, wonder of wonders, wilderness. Still good descriptors but not perfect. So off to the old thesaurus, but as handy as it is, it doesn’t attach any “specialness” to words that are, to me, special.
So, I consulted the most dependable source I have available - my wife. I told her that for the past several years, I had started to run out of superlatives when trying to find the best description of the Gorge Area.
She gave me that look and said, “Don’t you realize the Gorge Area is in itself a perfect superlative, a geological superlative?”
Kaboom! It struck me like a bolt out of the blue. She had done it again. The perfect way to describe the Red River Gorge Geological Area.
Sure, I could go on and on about all the family friendly venues like hiking, camping, paddling and climbing, underground treks, fishing but I think those two words pretty much tells it like it truly is.
The rest of the Gazette can guide you to specific places and things to do from crazy-wild to snoozing in a hammock.
We are so very happy you have chosen to come visit nature’s unique Geological Superlative.
Jerry Ison
Jerry Ison
Jerry Jerry
Publisher
Jenny Ison
Editor
Jerry Ison
Contributors
Jerry Ison
Miranda Fallen
Nancy Hamann
Sally Cox
Graphics
Ingrid Miller Red River Gorge Earth Shop
State, County & City Facilities
Natural Bridge State Resort Park General Information 606.663-2214 or 1-800-325-1710 (reservations) 2135 Natural Bridge Rd. Slade, KY 40376 Trail map & descriptions, park laws and regulations, lodging, camping, group meeting facilities, group programs "Natural Bridge State Resort Park is hiking, arches, exploring, scenery, reflection, and making memories." www.parks.ky.gov/findparks/resortparks/nb
Kentucky State Nature Preserve Commission www.naturepreserves.ky.gov
Red River Gorge National Geological Area 606) 663-8100
www.fs.fed.us/r8/boone/districts/cumberland/redriver_gorge.shtml Gladie Cultural-Environmental Learning Center 606.663-8100 www.fs.fed.us/r8/boone/districts/cumberland/gladie.shtml
Red River Gorge Trail Crew (Volunteers) www.RRGTC.com Leave No Trace – Outdoor Ethics www.lnt.org
Kentucky State Parks - Create your own Experience. www.parks.ky.gov Become a KYSP fan at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kentucky-State-Parks/152588316577
Lee County Tourism Commision Dedra Brandenburg Director 606.464.5038 www.visitleecountyky.com
Private Facilities
Cliffview Resort & Cliffview Retreat 606.668.6222 www.cliffviewresort.com 455 Cliff View Road, Campton, KY 41031
The Lodge, The Retreat and Lakeside Lodges are available for groups, weddings and retreats. Also available is the 8,000 sq foot Reception Hall Red River Gorge Zip Lines 855.ZIP.TOUR 855.947.8687 606.668.6222 www.redrivergorgezipline.com
Scenic Cabin Rentals 606.663.0000 www.sceniccabin.com
Black Bear Lodge Motel 606.663.0061
Red River Gorge Cabin Rentals 844.692.2246 www.redrivergorgecabinrentals.com The Gorge Underground 844.254.6244 Thrillsville.org The Red River Inn On Parkway, Campton
The Gorge Gazette Jenny or Jerry Ison 865.674.6740 Email stories, ideas, suggestions, news to: jerrywrison@gmail.com
T TT Things To Do, Places To Visit, hings To Do, Places To Visit, hings Do, Places hings Do, Places Where To Eat In
The Red River Gorge Where The River Gorge
• Red River Gorge Earth Shop Local Art gallery & Gift Shop 606.668.5228 Nat Bridge Rd. Slade
• Red River Climbing Guides where “Your Adventure Awaits!” Catering to all ages and experience levels. Visit: RedRiverClimbingGuides.com or call 629.207.0697
• HillTop Pizza: Pizza, Salads, Subs, Spaghetti, Lasagna. Delivery to Cliffview available. 606.464.9990 2034 Hwy 11N Beattyville.
• Daniel Boone Coffee Shoppe & Deli: Gourmet Coffees, Deli Foods, Camping Supplies 606-663-2549 Natural Bridge Road (KY Rt. 11) near Slade Exit 33
• Gorge Underground: A Unique Waterborne Family Adventure On The Water, Underground! Kayak and Pontoon Boat Tours 844-254-6244 Thegorgeunderground.com
• Natural Bridge State Park, Lodge & Sky Lift: Camping, Hiking, Rooms, Fine Dining parks.ky.gov/resortparks/nb/index.htm
• Mill Creek Lake: Kayak & SUP Rentals 859.300.1330
• Red River General Store: Hand Dipped Ice Cream, Hoodies, Gifts, Camping Supplies, T-Shirts Fudge, Local Artisan Crafts 1321 Natural Bridge Road (KY Rt. 11) Slade, KY 606.663.885
• Daniel Boone Liquor: 606-663-2549; Natural Bridge Rd (KY Rt 11)
• Red River Gorge Hiking, Rock Climbing: fs.fed.us/r8/boone/
• Red River Adventure: Kayaking and Canoeing redriveradventure.net 606-663-1012
• Via Ferrata Rock Climbing Park: Great for beginners 606-668-6441 torrentfalls.com
• Mr. Ed’s Hot Dogs Great Hot Dogs smothered with Famous Chili Sauce 209 N. Main Stanton, KY 606.569.8170 Check us on Facebook
• The Well Beattyville’s only liquor store selling Liquor, Beer & Wine Come down and sip a glass sitting on the patio watching the Kentucky River flow. On rte 52 Beattyville 606.208.8017 tony@theboneyardwell.com
• Beech Fork Golf Club: In Clay City - 606-663-9479
• Sag Hollow Golf Course: In Booneville 606-593-4653
• Beattyville Public Golf Course: Off Rt. 52 in Beattyville, KY 606.356.4199
If a Holiday Party, any Party, Family Reunion, Corporate Meeting, Church Retreat or Wedding is on your to-do list, go ahead and check it off. We have the perfect solution to party planning from catering to lodging to activities. The Lodge at Cliffview will sleep 64. The 7000 square foot Reception/Activity Center seats up to 250 and has a fully equipped commercial grade kitchen. Our newest Lodges, the Retreat and Lakeside will each sleep up to 50. Both have double appliances kitchens and technically compatible theater style media rooms Call: 606.668.6222 for details.
Take Home Page Take Home Page
Here are two delicious recipes to make at home.
The Gorge-A-Burger
Ingredients:
For each burger: 6 ounces freshly ground beef, turkey or venison. If using very lean meat, mix 2 ounces short ribs meat with 4 ounces lean for each burger. Pretzel burger buns
Lettuce, tomatoes and pickles
16 ounces sharp white cheddar, grated
16 ounces extra-sharp cheddar, grated
2 (2-ounce) jars pimentos
1/4 Cup cream cheese
1/4 Cup Dukes or Hellman’s ’s Mayo
1/2 Tsp Cumin
Several splashes of a good hot sauce (optional) Dash or two of dill pickle juice. This cheese mixture is enough for about 6 or 8 burgers
Directions:
Thoroughly combine the cumin, salt, pepper with meat. Divide meat into 3 ounce patties and set aside. Mix the rest of the ingredients for the cheese until smooth. Place out about an ounce or so of the cheese mixture in the middle of one of the patties. Top with another patty and pinch the edges to seal the two patties together. Season both sides with salt and pepper to taste. Preheat a flat grill or cast iron skillet to 475. Cook for 3 minutes per side, lower the heat, cook 3 more minutes for a total cook time of 9 to 12 minutes. Toast the buns on the insides, slather on the mayo and place a patty on a bun, add lettuce, tomatoes and pickles. Serve with “normal” burger sides - potato salad, baked beans, fries, deep fried mushrooms, chips, etc and of course, an ice cold drink.
A Wee Bit O’ Erin Food A Wee Bit O’ Erin Food-- Irish Stew Irish Stew
This is the best known Irish dish. Originally, the meat was from male kid goats; mutton and eventually lamb has since replaced those. The delicate flavor of the lamb must be preserved throughout the preparation or it’s just another stew. This time every year, food writers all over the world renew the argument as to what are the ingredients in true Irish Stew
A purist would have to use kid rather than lamb. There are recipes which call for barley and carrots but the barley will overpower the lamb. Fresh sweet carrots can enhance the natural sweetness of the lamb so if inclined, add carrots. This recipe is one obtained by many people, housewives and professional chefs after decades of researching, creating, tasting and eating gallons of dishes wistfully labeled Irish Stew, prepared by hundreds of "experts".
I feel that after all these years, we have found the one most authentic recipe for this oh so Gaelic dish. So, without further ado, here it is.
2 Pounds best end of lamb neck
8 Medium Irish potatoes
3 Large Spanish onions
2 Table spoon s chopped fresh parsley
1 Tbale spoons chopped fresh thyme (1tspn dried thyme works too, but, well it's just not the same.)
salt and pepper
2 or more cups water.
(Limestone spring water adds a refreshing hint of country. I would never use city water for any cooking beyond prepping pasta!)
Preparation:
Trim all fat from the meat. Leave bone in. Using a cleaver or heavy knife, cut the meat into 2 inch chunks.
Clean and slice potatoes, leaving skins on. Using a large stew pot, begin by placing a layer of potato slices, followed by a layer of onion slices, then meat. Mix parsley, thyme and salt and pepper (to taste) and sprinkle mixture between layers. Continue until all is layered into the pot ending with a layer of potatoes on top.
Add enough water to cover top layer. Cover and bring to a boil. Lower heat and simmer for at least two hours or until meat is very tender. Check frequently and add water, stirring as needed. Remember not get this stew too thin by adding too much water.
Irish stew is thick and rich.
Too much broth, like too many chefs, can spoil the stew.
Are We Having Fun Yet
by Sally Cox by Sally Cox
On my first trip to the Red River Gorge area, I was concerned that there might not be enough to do in my 4 day pilgrimagelike escape from the hustle and bustle of urban living. Boy, was I wrong! The Gorge is about 29,000 acres comprised of 100 natural sandstone arches, rock shelters, babbling brooks, and scenic waterfalls. With 60 miles of hiking trails, it would take weeks to view all the magnificent sights. Be sure to check out the Slade Visitor Center which provides a multitude of information on the many camping, hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking opportunities this geographical gem has to offer.
Planning is vital when vacationing with family and friends. Experts lecture on the benefits of building stronger bonds and shared memories. Exploring the great outdoors provides opportunities to teach your children and yourself about nature's wonders.
This break from ordinary life should be free of all distractions especially technology. Phones should only be allowed for navigational purposes and photos. Limited photos. So many hikers miss out on fully embracing the moment while obsessing over the perfect camera shot. Many trails abound with beauty so you should always be aware of your step and your young charges. Hiking with youngsters can be challenging. Just as you close your eyes to enjoy the melodious song of the elusive yellow warbler, you're awakened from your reverie with the melodramatic whine of your 8 year old. "I'm tired", "I'm thirsty", or the proverbial "This is boring".
Unless you're going solo you need to consider the interests and needs of others in your group. Short hikes are best for children and elderly.
Many trail pamphlets state the length and level of difficulty of marked treks. Unfortunately, not everyone is an outdoor enthusiast.
Thankfully, you've scheduled time in the day to visit the Kentucky Reptile Zoo in Slade. It boasts one of, if not the largest collection of venomous snakes in the world. They also give demonstrations of the expert herpetologists “milking” the snakes for their venom. You are invited to observe the process. How cool is that?! These milkings are usually at 1:00 P.M. but that’s not set in stone.
A promise to play miniature golf at the Thrillsville Adventure Park should put the kibosh on any complaining.
Oh yes don't forget to make online reservations for the underground kayaking or pontoon boat tour located in the heart of the Gorge, The Gorge Underground.
Perhaps you're an adrenaline junkie, looking for some high intensity activities. And when talking about ‘high’ and adrenaline pumping thrills, we’re talking about the Red River Gorge Zipline.
From five different stations, zipping in and out of the thick forest up to 300 feet in the air and 50 miles per hour.
For another thrilling adventure, check out one of the rock climbing outfits geared for all levels of ability.
You have the opportunity to experience the thrill of riding an off-road 4X4 rental vehicle at Hollerwood Offroad Park.
Whether you've taken a short hike or spent the day scrambling up a mini-Mt. McKinley, complete the day with a visit to one of the local eateries or gift shops. Stop at the Red River Gorge General Store for homemade fudge and souvenirs. Hit up the Daniel Boone gift shop for a snack and foofoo coffee drink.
The end of a particularly exciting, full day may call for a moonshine flight from the RRG Distilled Spirits. Time to celebrate a successful vacation where everyone, young and old went home happy campers/zippers/hikers/climbers!
Before visiting any attraction, store, or restaurant, go online for hours of operation, directions, or age requirements.
“To provide basic and emergency care to all those in need.”
P.O. Box 51824
Knoxville, TN 37950
Phone: 865-584-7571
www.MissionofHope.org
Mi Finca- 318 Main St, Campton, ~ Kel's Patriot Pizza- 133 KY-15, Campton
Dixie Freeze II-194 Main St, Campton ~ Shebrews Coffee Shop-569 KY-15, Campton 145 Roadhouse- 148 Main St, Campton ~ Sky Bridge Station- 8 KY-715, Pine Ridge Hop's- 2613 KY-11, Campton ~ The Wicked Wolfe- 301 Mtn Pkway Spur, Campton Subway- 30 KY-15, Campton ~ Sweet Art by Stephanie- 110 Main St, Campton Dairy Queen- 690 KY-15, Campton ~ Red River Rockhouse- 4000 KY-11, Campton Bites & Bargains- 658 KY-205N, Campton ~ Spanks Franks- 1008 KY-191, Campton The Brick- 5412 KY-15 N, Pine Ridge ~ RedPoint Barbeque- 356 Smith Rd, Campton
