Looking for the best things to do in the Red River Gorge? From ziplining and climbing tours to hiking and cute coffee shops, here are must-visits in “the gorge”!

Why this blog? Hi there! My name is Maddy and I grew up exploring the Midwest! The Red River Gorge was one of my first trips when I got my own car, and I recently went back again as an adult on a solo road trip. Today, I work as an outdoor guide and writer, and my mission is to help folks find adventures they love in the Midwest! Thanks for being here!

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Things to do in the Red River Gorge

Nestled in the adorable trail town of Slade, KY, the Red River Gorge Geologic Area is home to some of the most unique geology in the United States, with hundreds of arches, bridges, tunnels and caves to explore. From climbing to kayaking and hiking, here are the best things to do in Kentucky’s Red River Gorge:

1) Book a Guided Climbing Tour

The Red River Gorge is best known for rock climbing, and the best way to experience rock climbing as a beginner is with a climbing guide! Visit Red River Climbing Guides for guided rock climbing experiences.

2) Hike the Auxier Ridge Trail

The Auxier Ridge Trail offers 4-8 miles of hiking including the ridge and the option to add some milage to double arch. This trail offers the best views in the Red River Gorge, and is one of the best trails for folks truly looking to get out there and hike.

There are several spots near steep drops to keep in mind. Personally, my favorite thing about the trail was the views of double arch in the distance. I also think if you can only hike one trail in the Red River Gorge it should be this one.

READ: Best Hiking Trails in the Red River Gorge

3) Underground Kayaking with Gorge Underground

One of the coolest things to do near the Red River Gorge is kayak in an underground mine called Gorge Underground. This is a really cool way to paddle an underground cave.

4) Hike the Natural Bridge

Outside of the Red River Gorge Geologic Area proper, check out Natural Bridge State Park. This is where I usually camp when visiting the Red River Gorge (I like the tent sites near the river), and it has great access to a number of hiking trails.

Notable hiking destinations in the Natural Bridge State Park trail system include Balanced Rock, the Natural Bridge, Lookout Point, Devil’s Gulch and Lover’s Leap. Download a trail map here.

5) Visit the Kentucky Reptile Zoo

While visiting the Red River Gorge, be sure to stop by the Kentucky Reptile Zoo for reptiles, including one of the largest collections of venomous snakes in the world. Snake venom has been used in medical research, and this is just one of the many topics you can learn about at the reptile zoo.

6) Visit Miguel’s Pizza

Miguel’s is a legendary stop for mouthwatering pizza and a cozy atmosphere.

7) Hike Creation Falls and Rock Bridge

Hike a popular 1.5-mile loop to enjoy rock bridge and Creation Falls, two of the natural wonders of the Red River Gorge. This is one of the most popular hiking trails in the Red River Gorge, but popular things are popular for a reason!

In less than two miles with moderate hills, you can experience both the Creation Falls waterfall, and a natural bridge spanning over the creek.

8) Visit Princess Arch

For one of the prettiest arches in the Red River Gorge, check out Princess Arch. This delicate arch can be reached with just a half-mile round trip walk, and can be paired with the similar-distance walk to Chimney Top Rock for a slightly longer hike with good views.

Keep in mind that like many of the hiking trails in the Red River Gorge, this hike has dangerous cliffs. Keep a distance from cliff’s edges and watch your footing! When I visited, this was one of the less-crowded arches.

9) Visit Skybridge Arch

For a less than one mile hike where you can view an arch both from below and hike on top of it, check out Skybridge Arch.

Skybridge is a popular hiking trail/arch, but parking lot turnover is pretty quick given the length of the trail and it’s for sure still worth a stop.

10) Grab a bite at Daniel Boone Coffee Shop

If you’re looking for the perfect spot to grab breakfast or a cozy cafe to unwind and read a book in, the Daniel Boone Coffee Shop is the stop for you.

11) Zipline Red River Gorge

For another epic adventure in the Red River Gorge, check out a Zipline the Red River Gorge tour! Here, you can zipline above the canopy and enjoy one of the most exciting adventures in the Gorge.

What to pack for hiking the Red River Gorge:

Hiking in the Red River Gorge can be hot in the summer and experience summer storms. In addition, thick brush makes long pants a good choice. Here’s what I recommend for a weekend hiking and camping trip in the Red River Gorge:

• Long pants: for women looking for a flattering fit and functionality try Kuhl Freeflex or REI Trailmade
• Long sleeve wool baselayers : wool tops like this make a great hiking layer both for sun protection and for regulating body temperature 
• Shorts: I like a quick dry pair with a built-in belt  and a elastic waist, swim-friendly pair
• If paddling or swimming: a UPF sun hoodie
• A down puffy jacket that packs down small: nights are a lot cooler than you might expect especially in the shoulder season
• Leggings with pockets!!! 
• A solid day hiking pack
• On rugged trails, trekking poles
• Hiking boots: I like Oboz Bridger Mids for best grip and ankle support, or alternately hiking/paddling sandals like Bedrocks (designed for paddling guides and paddling guide (me) approved)
• A solid raincoat
• If camping, a tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad
• If backpacking, backpacking gear!

Love reading about the best things to do in the Red River Gorge? Check out these other Midwest Adventure ideas!

• Explore the Shawnee National Forest
• Check out Wisconsin’s Driftless Region
• Check out the best beaches in Michigan

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