What to Do at the Red River Gorge KY?

Top 10 Things to Do at Red River Gorge, KY: A Hiker’s Guide to Adventure

Red River Gorge, Kentucky – if you’ve been, you know it’s one of the most beautiful, wild, and unique places in the eastern United States. If you haven’t, it’s time to fix that. I’ve spent a lot of time hiking, exploring, and even creating some pretty cool adventures out here, and I wanted to put together a list of the top 10 things to do at the Red River Gorge. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a day trip, or a full-blown hiking adventure, this place has something for everyone. These suggestions are especially geared toward hikers and outdoor lovers who want to experience the full range of what the Gorge has to offer. Let’s get into it:

1. Indian Staircase & Indian Arch Hike This is not an official trail, so take care and do your research, but Indian Staircase is one of the most iconic and rewarding hikes in the Red. The climb up the rock face (yes, you’re literally climbing up a series of natural stone steps carved by time and water) is steep and challenging, but once you’re on top, the views are unreal. You can loop around to Indian Arch and connect with the unofficial Adena Arch trail for a solid day of backcountry hiking.
2. Auxier Ridge, Double Arch, and Courthouse Rock Loop If you want the best bang-for-your-buck hike with killer views and photo ops, this loop is it. About 6 miles round trip, this trail takes you along Auxier Ridge (some of the best views in the Gorge), past the towering Courthouse Rock, and down to the stunning Double Arch. It’s a classic for a reason. Great for a long afternoon hike, especially in fall.
3. Red River Gorge Mystery Adventures Okay, shameless plug here—but it’s worth it. If you want to experience the Gorge in a totally different way, you’ve got to try the Mystery Adventures we’ve created. These are self-guided, escape-room-meets-hiking adventures where you solve puzzles and uncover a story as you hike. They’re perfect for families, small groups, youth groups, or anyone who wants a little extra fun with their miles. You can check them out at https://redrivergorge.fun/product-category/red-river-gorge-mystery-adventures/.
4. Natural Bridge via Laurel Ridge Trail Technically just outside the official Red River Gorge Geological Area, but let’s be real—it’s part of the same ecosystem and absolutely worth a visit. Natural Bridge is one of Kentucky’s most iconic landmarks. You can hike up the Laurel Ridge Trail for a more scenic and less crowded route, or take the Sky Lift if you’re short on time or have little ones.
5. The Gorge Underground – Paddle Through a Cave Want to do something totally different? The Gorge Underground offers kayak and paddleboard tours through a flooded abandoned mine. It’s eerie, beautiful, and unforgettable. Great for hot summer days when you want something cool and shaded. They even do LED-lit night tours!
6. Red River Gorge Zipline Tours Get a bird’s-eye view of the Gorge as you zip across tree canopies and over cliffs. Red River Gorge Zipline offers one of the best canopy tours in the area, and it’s an awesome way to get a new perspective on the landscape. Not for the faint of heart—but that’s half the fun.
7. Camp at Koomer Ridge or Go Backcountry If you’re staying overnight (and you should), you’ve got options. Koomer Ridge Campground is a great basecamp with amenities and quick access to several trails. Or, if you’re more adventurous, try backcountry camping. Just make sure to grab a permit and practice Leave No Trace principles. Waking up to the sunrise in the Gorge is something you’ll never forget.
8. Climbing at Muir Valley or the Motherlode Red River Gorge is a world-class climbing destination. Even if you’re not a climber, it’s worth checking out some of the climbing areas just to watch. Muir Valley is privately owned but open to the public (donations encouraged), and the routes are well-maintained. The Motherlode is famous for its overhangs and hard sport routes. If you’ve ever wanted to try climbing, this is the place.
9. Chase Waterfalls: Creation Falls, Copperas Falls, and More The Red is full of hidden waterfalls. One of the most accessible is Creation Falls, just off the Rock Bridge Trail. It’s a gentle cascade over a natural arch—super peaceful and great for families or folks looking for an easier trail. If you want more of an adventure, Copperas Falls and the hike through Copperas Creek are wilder and more off-the-beaten-path. We have a great waterfall mystery adventure!
10. Drive Through the Nada Tunnel It’s just a one-lane tunnel through a mountain, but there’s something magical about it. Blasted through rock in the early 1900s for logging trains, it’s now a gateway to adventure. When you drive through Nada Tunnel, you know you’re entering a different kind of place—one where the wild still reigns.

So there you go—ten solid things to do at Red River Gorge if you love hiking, the outdoors, and a little adventure. Whether you’re climbing cliffs, solving mysteries, or just sitting by a waterfall, the Gorge has a way of making you feel small in the best kind of way. See you on the trail!