Red River Gorge Shuttle Service for Hikers, Climbers & Adventurers

Nicole Meyer • November 19, 2025

Explore the Gorge Without the Hassle

Navigating the cliffs, trails, and scenic beauty of Red River Gorge just got a whole lot easier. Whether you're a climber without a car, a hiker planning a weekend backpacking trip, or just someone looking for a more sustainable way to explore, the Red River Gorge Shuttle has you covered.

With convenient departures from Climb Nulu in Louisville and Hamburg Walmart in Lexington, the shuttle offers multiple options for getting to and from your favorite outdoor spots—without the stress of driving or parking.

New red river gorge shuttle launched louisville hamburg

One-Way & Round-Trip Shuttle Options

One-Way Trips
Perfect for those with their own return transportation or planning longer stays. The shuttle can take you from Louisville or Lexington to various drop-off points in the Gorge—and vice versa. All passengers must arrive 5–10 minutes early to their pickup location and be ready to go at the scheduled time.

Round-Trip Service
Coming for the day? Book a round trip from Louisville or Lexington, with stops at popular spots like Miguel’s Pizza, PMRP, or Muir Valley. You’ll be dropped off in the morning and picked up in the evening, making it a seamless full-day adventure. Just be sure to adhere to the schedule and be on time for all pickups.

Hiking Shuttles

Hiking One-Way

Headed into the backcountry? Our Hiking One-Way option transports you to select North Gorge trailheads, but does not include a return trip. Ideal for thru-hikers or those with another exit plan in place. Be sure to share your hiking itinerary with your driver and a friend—it’s all about safety and communication.

Hiking Round-Trip

For those looking to spend the night on trail and return the next day, our Hiking Round-Trip is available on Saturdays (drop-off) with Sunday pickups from select North Gorge trailheads. Pickup times vary depending on your selected trailhead, so be clear and realistic about your hiking route, pace, and ability. Plans must be fully discussed with your driver and submitted through the booking form.

SDF Airport Drop-Off

Flying home after your Gorge weekend? The shuttle offers limited airport drop-offs from Miguel’s on Saturday or Sunday evenings—perfect for “redeye” travelers. Flights must be 10 PM or later, as we can’t guarantee arrival before 8:30–9:00 PM due to possible delays or traffic.

Sheltowee Trace Section Hikers

Planning to hike the Sheltowee? We offer shuttle service as far north as Morehead and as far south as McKee. Just fill out our Sheltowee Section Hiker Contact Form in advance so we can confirm availability for your hiking segment.

Private Shuttle Bookings

Hosting a wedding, family reunion, group trip, or corporate retreat? You can book the entire shuttle for private transportation needs in and around the Red River Gorge. Our shuttle accommodates groups up to 14 and is a great option for events that need safe, reliable transport. Use our Custom Event Booking Form to get started.

Plan Ahead, Ride Easy

The Red River Gorge Shuttle runs every Saturday and Sunday, spring through early summer and again in the fall (April–June, September–October). Booking in advance is highly recommended, and punctuality is essential—please arrive 5–10 minutes early for all pickups.

With multiple trip options, friendly drivers, and a mission to connect people with the outdoors, the shuttle makes it easier than ever to explore the Gorge with confidence.

Ready to ride?

Visit our website for scheduling, pickup locations, accessible trailheads, and booking forms.

Let the Red River Gorge Shuttle take you where the adventure begins—no car required.

Working on packing? Checkout our Top 5 Gear tips for the RRG!

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Relax after a day in the Red River Gorge at Firefly Hills farmhouse lodging and RV park camping

A Better Place to Stay After a Day on the Rock: Firefly Hills

By Nicole Meyer • January 11, 2026

If you are coming to the Red River Gorge to climb, your days are probably full of early mornings, long approaches, and sore hands by sunset. Where you stay matters. You want a place that is quiet, comfortable, and welcoming without paying resort prices or feeling boxed into a hotel room. Just a short drive from the climbing areas, Firefly Hills offers something different. It is a small, thoughtfully designed property that feels like home base rather than just a place to sleep. Designed for Outdoor Lovers Firefly Hills was created with people who love the outdoors in mind. After a long day on the rock, you can come back to a peaceful setting where you can actually rest. No loud hallways. No crowded parking lots. Just open space, fresh air, and a front porch that invites you to slow down. Whether you are traveling solo, with climbing partners, or with family, Firefly Hills offers lodging that works for real life and real trips.

Winter climber on a hanging on a rope in the Red River Gorge, wearing cold-weather layers

Winter in the Red River Gorge: What’s Open, What to Do, and What to Know

By Nicole Meyer • January 9, 2026

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.

Why Fall 2025 Was a Fantastic Season for Climbing in the Red River Gorge

By Nicole Meyer • January 8, 2026

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.

Woman climbing the Red River Gorge Via Ferrata in the rain, clipped into the safety cable as water f

What to Do in the Red River Gorge on Rest Days or Rainy Days

By Nicole Meyer • November 25, 2025

Discover the best rainy-day and rest-day activities in Red River Gorge—from cozy indoor spots to climbing the Via Ferrata, even in the rain.

Lead Climber reading a route in a climbing gym | learn to climb outside

Gym vs. Crag: Key Differences for Climbers (+ Checklist & Transition Roadmap)

By Nicole Meyer • October 30, 2025

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

Via Ferrata vs. Guided Climbing: Which Adventure is Right for You?

By Nicole Meyer • October 14, 2025

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.

Red River Gorge Climbing guide tackles challenging section of a steep route

From Gym to Crag: Transitioning to Outdoor Climbing at the Gorge

By Nicole Meyer • October 7, 2025

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.

How Hard Are the Most Advanced Sections of the Red River Gorge Via Ferrata?

By Nicole Meyer • October 6, 2025

So, you’ve heard that the Southeast Mountain Guides Via Ferrata is tough—but how hard is it, really? We've already covered general preparation for the via ferrata, but here we're breaking down the advanced and expert sections of the course to help you plan, prepare, and maybe even conquer them.

How to Get the Most Out of Your First Guided Climbing Trip

By Nicole Meyer • August 22, 2025

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.

Romantic Red River Gorge: A Couples Getaway Guide

By Nicole Meyer • August 21, 2025

Red River Gorge isn't just for climbers and backpackers. It's also one of the most memorable and adventurous spots in Kentucky for a romantic weekend escape. Whether you're an outdoor-loving duo or just want to try something new together, the Gorge offers a mix of adrenaline, relaxation, great food, and jaw-dropping views. Here’s how to plan a dreamy 2-day getaway with your favorite person.