Red River Gorge Climbing Resources

The Cave Fork Recreational Preserve is one of the newest additions to the Red River Gorge’s growing network of climber-owned land. Recently protected by the Red River Gorge Climbers’ Coalition, the area features expansive cliffline, existing climbing zones, and significant room to grow—all guided by a conservation-first approach to access and development. To get a better feel for what this means on the ground, we caught up with Jarek Voyles , local climbing guide and route developer, to talk about what makes Cave Fork special, how development is unfolding, and what climbers can expect as this new area continues to take shape.

The Quiet Magic of Winter in the Red Winter in the Red River Gorge brings fewer crowds, crisp air, and peaceful cliffs that feel worlds away from the busy fall season. While climbing doesn’t stop in winter, it does shift with slower starts, sunnier walls, and a little more intention behind each day. It’s important to remember that winter hours, weather, and access can vary throughout the Gorge, and flexibility is key. This guide is here to help visitors plan realistically and confidently so they can make the most of a winter trip to this special place.

If you’ve spent any time in the Red River Gorge this fall, you already know — 2025 has been one for the books. From crisp sending temps to breathtaking color and some major new additions to our climbing landscape, this season has given us everything we love about autumn in the Gorge… and then some.  Here’s why Fall 2025 has been such an incredible time to climb in the Red: 1. The Weather Has Been Perfect for Sending This fall blessed us early. Humidity dipped out sooner than usual, ushering in those ideal, dry conditions climbers dream about. Pair that with consistently cooler temps that have stuck around well into November, and you’ve got prime friction season. Whether you were battling sandstone slopers or dancing up crimps, the rock felt crisp, grippy, and as welcoming as it gets. The kind of weather that makes you dig a little deeper, try a little harder, and maybe even send that project that’s been haunting you all year.

Learn the key differences between gym and outdoor climbing. Get your checklist and transition roadmap for climbing safely at Red River Gorge.

Red River Gorge is famous for its sandstone cliffs and world-class climbing opportunities. At Southeast Mountain Guides, we often hear the question: “Should I book the Via Ferrata or a guided climbing trip?” Both are unforgettable experiences , but they’re quite different. Here’s a side-by-side breakdown to help you decide which adventure is the best fit for you, your group, or your next date in the Gorge.

Learn how to transition from gym to outdoor climbing at Red River Gorge. Gear, skills, safety, and why hiring a guide makes all the difference.

If you’ve booked your first guided rock climbing trip —whether it’s in the Red River Gorge with Southeast Mountain Guides or elsewhere—you’re in for a rewarding experience. A guided trip offers personalized instruction, expert insight, and the chance to enjoy climbing without the stress of figuring everything out on your own. That said, a little preparation goes a long way in making the most of your day. Here’s how to show up ready, dialed in, and primed to learn.

Get ready for your guided rock climbing trip with Southeast Mountain Guides. Learn what to expect, what to bring, and how to make the most of your day.

If you’ve been to the Red River Gorge or are a lover of the outdoors, you’ve probably experienced the violating feeling of spotting a tick on you after a day of climbing or hiking. During the warmer months , ticks are very common in the Red River Gorge and surrounding areas. Ticks are blood feeding parasites usually found in areas with tall grass, trees, and an abundance of wildlife (particularly deer). Ticks do not fly or jump, but they can drop from trees onto you. They often try to find their way to higher points on your body and can attach to humans and their pets.