Red River Gorge Summer 2026 Photo Contest

Nicole Meyer • July 6, 2026

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

  1. Choose your best photo(s) from the Red River Gorge.
  2. Name your file with your name and email (example: JaneDoe_jane@email.com.jpg).
  3. Email your entry to southeastmountainguides@gmail.com. Include your instagram handle if you would like to be tagged.
  4. 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!

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