Red River Gorge: The ‘Grand Canyon of Kentucky’ Is a True Hidden Gem

The Bluegrass State will certainly surprise you. While Kentucky is known for bourbon, horses, and houseboats, few people realize that it is also home to one of the most beautiful National Parks in the country. Located within the state's Daniel Boone National Forest, Red River Gorge is the Holy Grail of outdoor recreation and adventure. For the ultimate Kentucky day trip, look no further than this Red River Gorge bucket list.

See Natural Arches and Sandstone Bridges

Along the banks of the Red River, lies a natural wonder 400 million years in the making. Red River Gorge is sandstone cliffs, rock arches, lush forests, and deep valleys. It's a place for outdoor recreation, wandering, and exploring. However, Red River Gorge is more than simply the sum of its parts and a place to see Kentucky natural arches and bridges; it's a place for discovery and reflecting, of connecting with Mother Nature in a deep and profound new way. However you decide to explore this awe-inspiring natural landscape, you'll see some of Mother Nature's most beautiful work.

Red River Gorge truly is Kentucky's crown jewel and should be on any adventure seeker's bucket list, and we bet you can't wait to explore.

Drive Through Nada Tunnel and Scenic Routes

Known as the "Grand Canyon of Kentucky," Red River Gorge is a canyon system along the Red River in the eastern part of the state. Located in Daniel Boone National Forest, Red River Gorge is a magical place year-round, offering some of the very best outdoor recreation in the country.

And the adventures begin before arriving at the park itself. One of the best things to do in Red River Gorge, Kentucky, is to drive through the 900-foot-long Nada Tunnel. Known as the "Gateway to Red River Gorge," this tunnel is a former railroad tunnel that offers a shortcut to the park.

Driving through the one-lane Nada Tunnel is a harrowing experience, but part of the excitement of a trip to Red River Gorge. And in the interest of full disclosure, locals also claim it's haunted!

For a more relaxed drive, the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway offers 46 miles of Kentucky grandeur. Attractions on the scenic byway include the Gladie Visitor Center, Nada Tunnel, and views of some of the park's iconic stone arches and unique rock formations. There are also several scenic overlooks that are worth stopping for.

Must-Do Hiking Trails in Red River Gorge

The Gorge is perhaps best-known for its incredible hiking trails, offering drop-dead gorgeous views of waterfalls, canyons, caverns, and other splendid natural features. There are well over 60 miles of mapped hiking trails in various spots throughout the Gorge. You can enjoy the scenic views from highs above the canyon or low points as you stroll along the rivers. And you don't have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy Red River Gorge; there are a variety of trails for all skill levels.

For beginners, the Angel Window Trail is positively perfect. This 0.6-mile trail winds beneath some absolutely spectacular sandstone arch frames. In fact, there are over 150 naturally-formed sandstone bridges throughout the Gorge.

For more advanced hikers, the Rough, Koomer Ridge, Buck, Pinch-em Tight Trail Loop is 12.3 miles of pure Bluegrass State beauty — keep in mind this is a hike you must prepare for. And then there's the Sheltowee Trace Trail, which is peak Red River Gorge and also quite challenging. For 11 miles, you'll traverse over a charming hanging bridge, through babbling waters, and deep into the wilderness of Daniel Boone National Park. There are points on the trail at which you'll truly feel like you’re in an enchanted forest.

If you're looking for Red River Gorge hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy, Natural Bridge is one of its most spectacular spots and offers 10 hiking trails ranging from a half-mile to 7.5 miles in length. Formed over millions of years, the park's eponymous sandstone arch stretches more than 75 feet long and 65 feet high.

Ziplining and Rock Climbing in Kentucky’s Adventure Capital

With stunning geological features and sweeping panoramas, Natural Bridge State Park, Kentucky, is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the region — and there are many ways to take it all in. The Skylift is a pretty memorable way to experience the scenic splendor of Natural Bridge.

This popular attraction takes visitors on a mile-long journey through spectacular mountain scenery. And for an exhilarating Gorge experience, the zip line tours are absolutely incredible. These zip line tours with Red River Gorge Ziplines are as exciting as they are scenic, offering a bird's eye view of one of Kentucky's most breathtaking natural wonders, all at an incredible 55 mph. It's an epic adventure you won't forget.

Of course, the "Grand Canyon of Kentucky" is also known for its stellar climbing. Red River Gorge attracts climbers from all over the country who come to scale the park's iconic sandstone cliffs. Climbing is one of the best ways to experience the Gorge's unique geological features; these rocky precipices are over 400 million years in the making. As you can see, Red River Gorge outdoor activities are among the most adventurous in the state.

Best Camping Spots in Red River Gorge

While Red River Gorge is an ideal day-trip destination, it's also the perfect place to pitch a tent and camp for a night or two. There are numerous campsites within Daniel Boone National Forest and Red River Gorge, and Natural Bridge has incredibly charming RV parks, campsites, and cabins.

But for a truly spectacular stay in Red River Gorge, there are some accommodations that will take your breath away. Cedarpalace Cabin is one of the largest in the Gorge and offers a luxurious vacation experience with million-dollar views. After a day exploring this wondrous place, a night of rest and relaxation is the perfect way to savor the splendor that is Red River Gorge.

Tips for Visiting

• Accessibility: With over 600 miles of trails, Red River Gorge offers something for everyone. On the north end of the forest in the Red River Gorge Geological Area, Skybridge provides an accessible overlook of the arch. Natural Arch and Barren Fork Trails are two of the park's more accessible trails, though they are unpaved. For a complete listing of trails at Red River Gorge, visit the USDA Forest Service website.

• Pet Friendly: Red River Gorge is pet-friendly, and dogs are welcome on the trails, as long as they're kept on a leash. Exercise caution if you plan on bringing a pet with you; the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources regulations do allow hunting and trapping in the area and visitors should take appropriate safety precautions to protect themselves and pets during hunting and trapping seasons.

• Parking: At each park in Red River Gorge, there are myriad free places to park your vehicle. Please note, however, that parking on Tunnel Ridge Road is limited to designated sites only. Please do not park on the shoulder of any road or block gates.

• Seasonal Access: Red River Gorge is open year-round.

• Cost: Admission to Red River Gorge is free; however, if you plan to camp, you'll want to note that vehicles on KY-15 or in the Red River Gorge and Indian Creek area north of KY-15 must display a recreation permit for backcountry camping between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Permits are $5/day or $50/annually and can be purchased at the Cumberland District Office, located at 2375 KY 801, South Morehead, KY, 40351.

Red River Gorge is renowned for its outdoor recreation, offering next-level hiking, kayaking, fishing, climbing, and camping. The park draws upwards of 750,000 visitors each year, from seasoned outdoor enthusiasts to neophyte nature lovers. Whether Red River Gorge camping and climbing, or hiking or climbing, there's truly something for everyone at one of the most spectacular Kentucky natural wonders worth visiting.

If you're looking for another swoon-worthy place to stay while in Red River Gorge, The Canopy Crew has some of the most magical accommodations in the park. Their one-of-a-kind destinations include the cliff-mounted Cliff Dweller treehouse, a truly spectacular place that you'll never forget. For more outdoor exploration, discover the best hiking trails in Kentucky.