20 Amazing Things to Do in the Red River Gorge You Have to Check Out

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Unsure about what to do in the Red River Gorge?

The Red River Gorge is a hidden gem, perfect for outdoors lovers of all kinds. This lush area tucked away in the gentle hills of Kentucky is a haven for experienced rock climbers and hikers but is also welcoming to families and newbies alike. Whether you’re looking to try the Red’s world-class crags or view the famous sandstone arches, this unique gorge has something for everyone. You never run out of things to do in Red River Gorge.

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”My recommendations” shape=”square”]Best option for families: Thrillsville Adventure Park

Best option for adventurers: Red River Gorge Ziplines

Best option for hikers: Daniel Boone National Forest[/vc_cta][vc_column_text]

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The absolute best things to do in the Red River Gorge

Whether it’s your first time to the Red River Gorge or your twentieth, these are amazing options you won’t want to miss! Here are twenty things to do in the Red River Gorge.

1. Muir Valley

Muir Valley, a 360-acre nonprofit nature reserve and rock climbing park, is the perfect hiking and climbing oasis. This web of well-maintained hiking trails leads down into a gorgeous valley, bursting with ferns, rhododendron, and other beautiful local flora and fauna. One of the best Red River Gorge activities, hikers will enjoy the well-marked trails, looming red cliffs, and meandering stream at the valley floor. Waterfalls and caves hide around corners, waiting to be discovered.

Rock climbers will enjoy the feel of an indoor gym transported to the outdoors–the climbs are all well-bolted, with small tags displaying route names and grades. Some crags even boast areas to learn skills before leaving the ground. There are over 7 miles of red Corbin Sandstone cliffs to explore; climbing in Muir Valley is one of the best things to do in the Red River Gorge in Kentucky.

When visiting Muir Valley, remember to pay the $10 per vehicle parking fee and sign the waiver before venturing into the valley!

2. Miguel’s Pizza, Campground, and Gear Shop

Miguel’s Pizza is a Red River Gorge icon. Since 1984, this family-owned restaurant has been serving fresh, customizable pizzas to both the local community and adventure tourists alike. Don’t forget to try Kentucky’s famous “Ale-8’s,” a delicious version of ginger ale served in old-school glass bottles.

Miguel’s is a cultural hotspot for climbers, with camping prices at only $3.50 a night, a parking lot for car campers, and opportunities for long-term stays. A large pavilion provides space for campers to cook and store their belongings, and a patchwork of fields creates ample room for tents. Wi-Fi, showers, bathrooms, a dishwashing station, and a washer and dryer are also available.

There is one central fire ring, a hangout room with puzzles and seating, and also slacklines strung between the trees behind the pavilion. Miguel’s also runs a climbing gear shop at the far end of the campground, providing clothing, water bottles, guidebooks, and climbing-specific gear.

When looking for things to do in the Red River Gorge, don’t leave without stopping by Miguel’s–it is the center of Red River Gorge culture and not to be missed!

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Camping essentials”]Recommended tent: Marmot Tungsten 2 person ⛺

Recommended stove: Coleman Cascade 🔥 

Recommended sleeping bag: REI Co-Op Downtime 😴

Recommended mess kit: Sea to Summit Delta Camp Set 🍽

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3. Mill Creek Lake waterfall and swimming hole

The Red can become fairly humid in the summer, and the Mill Creek Lake swimming hole is the best spot to cool off! Located just down the road from Miguel’s, pull into a parking lot by the Mill Creek Lake banners. A shallow stream runs directly next to the lot, tumbling down a series of stone ledges to create a long, low waterfall. Explore the waterfall, but beware – the rocks are quite slippery! At the end of the waterfall, the stream pools into a swimming hole, ranging from wading to swimming depth.

Be prepared to share this spot with locals! It’s a popular spot to cool off on those hot summer afternoons and one of the most beautiful places in Kentucky.

4. Natural Bridge

Perhaps the most famous area of the Red, this natural sandstone arch reaches over 75 feet long and 65 feet high. Natural Bridge can be viewed from above via sky lift or on foot for a closer experience. Original Trail, the most popular trail for reaching the arch, climbs through a forest of hemlock, tulip tree, white pine, and rhododendron thickets to end directly beneath the bridge. Hikers can walk over the bridge by scrambling up a natural fracture on the opposite side of the arch.

Visiting Natural Bridge is one of the top things to do in the Red River Gorge. This location can become a bit crowded, but the Red River Gorge boasts many natural stone arches such as this! If Natural Bridge is overrun, explore one of the other magnificent options such as Sky Bridge, Gray’s Arch, or Fern Bridge instead.

5. Daniel Boone Coffee Shop

This charming coffee shop boasts delicious coffee, handmade baked goods, and sandwiches along with an impressive gift shop, including works by many local artisans. Pick up a piece of handmade pottery by Fern Point Pottery or Turtle Farm Pottery, two Red River Gorge potters, or jewelry by Wild Asteria. Glass prints of climbers scaling the Red’s sandstone cliffs are also available. Visitors can even take part in the “Backwoods Love” tradition, either paying for another person’s coffee in advance or receiving the same blessing from a stranger.

Grab a coffee or smoothie, use the Wi-Fi, and peruse some handmade goods… it’s always good to have a memento to take home with you!

6. Red River Gorge Ziplines

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-infused activity, look no further than Red River Gorge Ziplines! Soar the gorge with a Red River Gorge zipline canopy tour through Daniel Boone National Forest. The company offers five different lines for a 1 to 2 hour experience flying 300 feet above the gorge, with the longest line stretching a whopping 1,900 feet.

If you’re a little afraid of heights, don’t be nervous! One of the most family-friendly things to do in the Red River Gorge, this activity is fit for all ability levels, and two experienced guides will shadow you every step of the way.

7. Pendergrass-Murray Recreational Preserve (PMRP)

For more experienced climbers, Pendergrass-Murray Recreational Preserve is a giant playground. This 750-acre tract is owned by the Red River Gorge Climber’s Association and boasts over 500 climbing routes in 25 separate areas within the preserve. This reserve has a wilder feel than Muir valley, giving climbers the feeling of venturing deep into the forest.

If you choose to explore PMRP, keep in mind that not all roads are suited for 2WD vehicles. Drive on these muddy and sometimes rocky roads at your own risk, and don’t be afraid to park at the top of hills and walk the rest of the way to the parking lots. Climbing in PMRP is one of the most adventurous things to do in the Red River Gorge!

8. Lago Linda Hideaway

Lago Linda Hideaway is a quiet campground tucked out of the way in the Red River Gorge. This 410-acre property offers more expensive camping for a tranquil, isolated retreat. Each campsite is provided with water, a picnic table, and a fire ring. Fully-furnished cabins are also available, along with access to the campground’s very own lake. The campground’s Shake-Out Lounge offers a safe space away from the elements, including couches, books, Wi-Fi, and a TV.

If you’re looking to get away from the crowds and have a quieter camping experience, relaxing at Lago Linda Hideaway is one of the best things to do near the Red River Gorge!

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Do you need an RV for your trip?”]

I recommend Outdoorsy for the best options and deals for RVs!

⭐CHECK OUT RVS NEAR THE RED RIVER GORGE HERE⭐

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9. Red River Rockhouse

A family-owned American cafe, Red River Rockhouse provides a more upscale atmosphere, serving grass-fed burgers, kale and spinach salad, tacos, burritos, and alcohol. The Rockhouse supports local farmers and artisans, utilizing ingredients from the immediate area and earning the title of one of the top farm-to-table cafes in America. Only serving late lunch and dinner, this restaurant focuses on delivering an excellent evening dining experience.

When looking for things to do in the Red River Gorge area, eating at the Red River Rockhouse is a must if you’re looking for exceptional food with ethically sourced ingredients and a more formal dining experience.

10. The Gorge Underground

One of the more unusual Red River Gorge attractions, The Gorge Underground offers boat, kayak, and stand up paddleboard tours of a network of 100-year-old flooded limestone mines. The crystal Red River Gorge kayaking tours include clear-bottomed kayaks, so you can view rainbow trout and other mine secrets. Alternatively, take the SUP tour to view the caverns via the glow of your LED board as your guides reveal the mine’s secrets.

A great way to escape the summer heat, The Gorge Underground offers a unique way to learn about the Red River Gorge area that most never get to experience.

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Join the community!”]Love the outdoors? Join my free Facebook community where we chat and share information about national parks, hiking, outdoor activities, and more!

JOIN HERE! ⛰️ [/vc_cta][vc_column_text]

11. Red River Gorge Via Ferrata

Not quite ready to jump into the world of rock climbing? Try the Red River Gorge Via Ferrata with Southeast Mountain Guides! This beginner’s path stretches three-quarters of a mile across sandstone cliffs using cables and iron hand and foot rungs. Participants must be at least 10 years old. The climbing is unguided but supervised, complete with a training session.

Adventurers can choose their course difficulty and often spend 4-5 hours exploring the cliffs and enjoying the observation decks. Don’t miss this awesome intro to the Red River Gorge, Kentucky, cliffs!

12. Kentucky Reptile Zoo

If you’re a fan of slithering creatures, check out the Kentucky Reptile Zoo, home to one of the largest collections of venomous snakes in the world. Each day, visitors can attend two daily shows, one demonstrating snake venom extraction and the other a reptile talk, featuring one of the zoo’s nonvenomous snakes. The zoo is open daily from 11am to 6pm. Snake lovers won’t want to miss this wonderfully weird Red River Gorge attraction.

13. Nada Tunnel

Nada Tunnel, aka The Gateway to the Red River Gorge, is a beautiful tunnel carved straight through a cliff, dating back to the early 1900s. As you drive through this one-way tunnel, you can see the layers of rock and feel like you’re going back through time. Some locals even maintain the rumor that the tunnel is haunted. Fun fact: steam locomotives used to haul timber through the tunnel. Remember to stop at the entrance to check for oncoming traffic and turn on your lights for the 900ft stretch!

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Do you need help with your national park trip?”]

I offer custom national park itinerary planning as a service to help you make the most of your adventures! These itineraries cover everything from where to stay, eat, what to do, and more!

⭐CHECK OUT CUSTOM NATIONAL PARK ITINERARY PACKAGES HERE⭐

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14. Red River Kayaking

Explore the Red River with Red River Adventure on one of their two kayaking tours! Choose to either paddle downriver next to forests, cliffs, and amazing rock formations or explore the river’s beautiful swimming holes for a more leisurely trip. The company will take care of shuttling and provide all the gear you need for a lovely day on the water and provide options for both single and tandem kayaking.

15. Red River Museum

When visiting a new area, it’s always a good idea to learn about its history. The Red River Museum boasts antique items and offers a window into Kentucky’s past. Explore two floors of railroad memorabilia and old photos and wander outside to visit the small Railroad Museum. Gain a deeper understanding of the gorge while visiting one of the premier historical Red River Gorge attractions.

16. Thrillsville Adventure Park

This Red River Gorge adventure park offers adrenaline galore, including climbing walls, cargo nets, zip-lines, and a lower ropes course for heights-averse individuals. The park also provides off-roading adventures in a 9-passenger Hummer which climbs almost 1000 feet, another excellent way to see the gorge. A center for great adventures for the whole family, Thrillsville has a Red River Gorge activity for everyone.

17. Horseback riding

Explore the Red River Gorge, KY, from the back of a horse! Whisper Valley Riding Trails offers an affordable option for horseback riding tours with a one-hour ride starting at $35. Wander through a web of forest trails, including waterfalls and overlooks. There’s more than one way to explore this beautiful area, and horseback riding offers a wonderful opportunity to truly slow down and take it all in.

18. Daniel Boone National Forest

Whether you’re a backpacker or day-tripper, this forest has something for everyone. See if you can spot the bald eagle or osprey as you explore more than 500 miles of hiking trails, including canyons, mountain peaks, rivers, lakes, and even of the gorge’s famous natural rock arches. The park has options for camping or staying in cabins if you’d like to spend a night under the stars.

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Hiking essentials”]Recommended hiking boots: Salomon Quest 4 Gore-tex 🥾 

Recommended jacket: The North Face Antora Jacket 🧥

Recommended hiking poles: Black Diamond Trail Cork Trekking Poles 🌲

Recommended day pack: Osprey Daylite Pack 🎒

Hike like a pro: Get an AllTrails Pro membership! 🗺

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19. Hoedown Island

At Hoedown Island in Natural Bridge State Park, you can experience the delight of Kentucky dancing. Every Saturday night throughout the summer, locals and visitors alike gather for clog dancing, square dancing, and line dancing. All ages are welcome to attend. Experience a real dose of Kentucky culture while exploring the Red River Gorge.

20. Cave Run Lake Fishing

Lastly, if you’re a fisherman, you won’t want to miss Cave Run Lake. A fisherman’s paradise, this lake holds trophy muskie, one of the largest freshwater fish. Anglers also gather at this lake for the chance to catch over 150 species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, white bass, black crappie, white crappie, bluegill and catfish. Access is easy with 12 boat ramps, two marinas, and boat rentals available. If you’d rather take a guided fishing trip, these are offered by several local companies as well! If you’re looking for things to do near the Red River Gorge, look no further than Cave Run Lake.

Where to stay in the Red River Gorge

Don’t miss these accommodations in the Red River Gorge when you plan on visiting!

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⭐BEST FOR BUDGET TRAVELERS: DAYS INN MOREHEAD⭐

⭐BEST FOR COUPLES: HAMPTON INN MOREHEAD⭐

⭐BEST FOR FAMILIES: RED ROOF MOREHEAD⭐

⭐BEST FOR INSTAGRAM: RED RIVER GORGE FARMHOUSE⭐

⭐BEST FOR ADVENTURERS: THE TOWNER COZY COUNTRY HOME⭐

⭐BEST AIRBNB: PET-FRIENDLY TREEHOUSE⭐

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Conclusion: Red River Gorge things to do

If you’re an outdoors lover, you’re going to love the incredible Red River Gorge. You’ve got every sort of activity you can think of from hiking, kayaking, climbing, and more!

Ashley Wilda is a writer, creative, and mountain lover living in eastern Virginia. In addition to nonfiction, she enjoys writing young adult fiction and poetry—her debut novel THE NIGHT FOX comes out with Penguin Random House in 2023. When not writing, she loves hiking and rock climbing, creating art for her company Wild Thing Co., and adventuring with her husband and pup. Find Ashley on Instagram: @wild.thing.co

Are you ready to explore things to do in the Red River Gorge? Share your plans in the comments!

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