Red River Gorge Climbing Resources
We want you to have the best possible experience climbing in the Red River Gorge, both on and off the rock.
Our
Climbing Resources are here to help you prepare, progress, and explore with confidence, whether it’s your first outdoor climb or your fiftieth visit to the Gorge.
Below you’ll find a curated collection of our blog posts covering everything from which routes to try first to what gear to bring or what to expect when hiring a climbing guide. Dive in, learn something new, and enjoy your time in our home crag.
Thinking about rappelling at the Red River Gorge? Here’s what a guided trip looks like, who it’s for, and how to prepare for your first descent.
Everything a first-timer needs for Rocktoberfest 2026 in the Red River Gorge: dates, tickets, camping, parking, clinics, and how not to waste your Saturday.
Rocktoberfest is Oct 8–11 in the Red River Gorge. See the full clinic and meetup schedule, plus free climbing at Southeast Mountain Guides' private crag.
Nicole Meyer was twelve when her parents built America's first via ferrata. Twenty-five years on, the owner of Southeast Mountain Guides on what it taught her.
How to practice Leave No Trace while climbing in the Red River Gorge — trail etiquette, chalk, closures, wildlife, and supporting the RRGCC.
We're excited to announce our 2026 summer photo contest! Do you have a shot from your latest climb, hike, or via ferrata adventure? How about a great Red River Gorge landscape photo? Show it off — and win a prize! We're looking for your best action shots, scenic overlooks, and candid moments from the trail or the rock. Whether you caught the perfect sunrise over the Gorge or your buddy sending a classic route, we want to see it. Prizes 1st Place: $100 + 2 Via Ferrata Passes 2nd Place: $75 3rd Place: $50 4th Place: $25 How to Enter Choose your best photo(s) from the Red River Gorge. Name your file with your name and email (example: JaneDoe_jane@email.com.jpg ). Email your entry to southeastmountainguides@gmail.com . Include your instagram handle if you would like to be tagged. Submit before the deadline: August 31 , 2026. Judging Entries will be judged by a team of creative experts. Winners will be announced on August 31, 2026 and images will be featured on Southeast Mountain Guides website and social media pages. Entry Requirements & Disclaimer By submitting a photo, you certify that: The photo features only fully clothed and helmet-adorned people. You grant Southeast Mountain Guides unrestricted permission to use your submitted photo(s) on their websites and social media channels, including southeastmountainguides.com and climbredrivergorge.com. Good luck, and we can't wait to see what you've captured this summer!
Not a climber? The Red River Gorge has plenty for you -- via ferrata, rappelling, hiking, underground kayaking, zip-lining, and more. Here's your complete guide.
Looking for a corporate team building experience your team will actually remember? Here's why outdoor adventure at the Red River Gorge works — and how to plan it.
First-time climber wondering what to wear? Here's what actually works -- and what to leave at home -- for a day of outdoor rock climbing at the Red River Gorge.
Not all guide services are the same. Here's what to look for -- certifications, private vs. group trips, local knowledge, and the right questions to ask before you book.
