Red River Gorge, Kentucky is my favorite weekend getaway spot. Located inside Daniel Boone National Forest and home of Natural Bridge State park, Red River Gorge offers a variety of activities, restaurants, and sights for visitors.
A few important notes to keep in mind before traveling to Red River Gorge. There is little to no signal or service in many parts of the park or in the area in general. For this reason it would be a good idea to do your research of where you want to go or print out tickets or directions just in case you have no service.
If you are interested in hiking this is a list of some of my favorite trails…. 1. Natural Bridge Trail 2. Rock Bridge Trail 3. Creation Falls 4. Sky Bridge Trails 5. Chimney Top Trail 6.Angel Windows 7. Whistling Arch Trail Most of these trails are shorter trails they have a variety of long and short trails. When I go I tend to hike several short trails or one of the short trails will lead to a longer loop. They are all very well marked and have never had to worry about being lost or off trail.
For the foodies this where I recommend grabbing food or a drink. The Brick at Red River Gorge – great coffees and beautiful pottery I haven’t tried the ice cream but I’m sure it’s tasty! La Cabana– great service, great food it’s always busy Miguels Pizza– love this place the pizza is great the vibes are immaculate. Daniel Boone Coffee Shop– this is a hot spot for breakfast and it’s so easy to see why, fabulous lattes and amazing breakfast sandwiches!
For other activities to do this is what I recommend. The Gorge Underground– this is kayaking in a cave and it is a blast I have gone a few times and it has been memorable each time.
Rock climbing is something that I haven’t done at Red River Gorge but I know there are many that travel specifically just to rock climb there and it is popular activity in the gorge. Located just behind Miguel’s Pizza is a gear shop, gift shop, and where you can rock climb. If you are interested in staying for a few days there is also a campground there for tent camping only.
Red River Adventure Kayaking was so much fun we sang songs down the river and a wonderful time. The time of year we went the water was low in spots and we had to drag our kayaks through the low spots but it was still a great time.
The Skylift– if you want to see the beautiful view from Natural Bridge but you are not into hiking this is a great alternative. The skylift is essentially a ski lift but for going up the side of a mountain.
Hoedown Island– located just below Natural Bridge State Resort Park lodge. Saturdays in the summer and early fall they have line dancing, square dancing, and clogging for all ages. This a perfect family activity or a girls trip or even a date night.
Places to stay… some are from personal experiences others are from reviews I have read. Scenic Cabin Rentals is so fun,the customer service is super friendly. Keep in mind you are more than likely going to have at least a 20 minute drive into the middle of nowhere in woods but that’s part of the experience! The Canopy Crew is on my bucket list. I’m obsessed with their cabins and think their uniqueness and creativity makes it so worth the price. Staying at one of their cabins would be worth the trip even if you didn’t go hiking or do any other activity your entire trip to the gorge. The Natural Bridge Resort is a great motel and is within steps of many trails and other attractions the gorge has to offer. I have stayed there once and it was great I would definitely go there again. You can also hear the music from hoedown island from your balcony and if you don’t feel like dancing you can just sit and listen to the peaceful music.
Audrey Hikes a Lot 