What to Expect on a Guided Rock Climbing Trip in Red River Gorge: Schedule, Tips, and How to Prepare

Red River Gorge is a dream destination for climbers, hikers, and outdoor lovers—and there’s no better way to soak it all in than staying at one of the area’s many local campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot, easy access to hiking trails, or a campground with full RV hookups, this guide will help you find the perfect base for your Red River Gorge adventure. Let’s explore some of the best places to camp near Southeast Mountain Guides, starting with a classic.

Summer Community Nights at Southeast Mountain Guides: Craft, Connect, and Celebrate Together Summer in the Red River Gorge is magical—long days, warm nights, and a community of climbers and friends who know how to make the most of it. That’s why we’re so excited to bring you Summer Community Nights at Southeast Mountain Guides: a monthly gathering where we slow down, connect off the rock, and share good times together. From June through September , we’re hosting themed evenings to create, play, watch movies, swap stories (and gear!), and of course—eat delicious food. Whether you’re a local, a weekend warrior, or just passing through, all are welcome. Each night is free , casual, and open to everyone. Come for the crafts, stay for the friendships.

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.

The History of the First Via Ferrata in the United States

Discover fun, family-friendly things to do in Red River Gorge—from easy hikes and scenic drives to cave kayaking, mini golf, and the thrilling Via Ferrata.

Smart, often-forgotten essentials that will make your RRG climbing trip more comfortable, efficient, and fun. Heading Into the Gorge? Don’t Forget These Essentials Packing for a climbing trip usually means double-checking your rope, harness, quickdraws, and shoes—but the Red River Gorge has some unique conditions that call for a few extras. From humid summer trails to crag-side comfort, here’s our list of often-overlooked items that will help you stay dialed in, comfortable, and ready to send. Non-Standard Essentials to Pack for Your Red River Gorge Climbing Trip

Nestled in the Daniel Boone National Forest, Red River Gorge is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie looking for adventure or someone who enjoys a laid-back experience in nature, the Gorge has something for everyone. Here’s your ultimate guide to things to do in the Red River Gorge, KY.

Having the right gear can make all the difference on a climbing trip to the Red River Gorge. As climbing guides, we feel we have some insight into what will help make your trip a success. In this guide, we’ll cover the top 5 gear tips for rock climbing in Red River Gorge, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. 1. Stick Clip This has to be our number one pick for climbing gear in the Red! What is a stick clip? A stick clip is a tool that lets you clip your rope through a quickdraw on the first bolt of a sport route without having to climb to the bolt first. One of the most common options is the Metolius Superclip, a simple attachment made of two wire loops that can screw onto a painter’s pole or other extension pole. Why do we recommend a stick clip for climbing in the RRG? There are several reasons: The first bolt on many sport routes here can be high, often 8 to 12 feet off the ground. Opening moves are often challenging, sometimes because the bases of popular climbs are eroded. Stick clips are also useful for projecting routes or bailing off a climb. Bonus uses: clearing spider webs on the approach trail or gently relocating a snake from the path! 😉 Where do you get a stick clip? Many outdoor retailers (both online and brick-and-mortar) sell stick clips. The Metolius superclip is available as just the attachment, which can be handy if you’re flying in and then you can pick up an extension pole locally. Alternatively, brands like Trango Beta Stick offer complete stick clip kits, including the pole. Locally, Miguel’s Pizza and Climb Shop sell stick clips, as does J&H Landmark in Lexington. If you’re climbing at Muir Valley , they even have loaner stick clips available at the main parking lot pavilion—just be sure to return them! Which stick clip should you purchase? We’re big fans of the Metolius Superclip, but whatever you choose, look for: A minimum 12-foot extension (though greater extension is not uncommon). Durability. An intuitive way to clip and unclip draws from bolts. 2. Rope Bag A rope bag or even a small tarp would be another top recommendation for climbing equipment in the Red River Gorge. What is a rope bag? A rope bag is a small bag that you can carry and store your rope in, with a built in tarp that you can roll your rope onto when in use. This will help protect your rope from dirt and moisture. Think of tent canvas in terms of light, water-resistant, durable, and pliable. Why do we recommend a rope bag for the RRG? The sandy terrain at most climbing areas in the Red River Gorge can quickly wear down your rope, and damp conditions at the base of routes are common. A rope bag provides a clean, dry surface to protect your rope, prolonging its lifespan and ensuring the continued performance of your belay devices, carabiners, and anchors. Where do you get a rope bag? You can get climbing rope bags from online retailers or local outdoor climbing such as a Miguel’s Pizza and Climb Shop in our area. Which rope bag should you purchase? The Metolius Ropemaster is a long-time favorite for its durability and ease of use. Look for bags with: A good-sized tarp. Cinch straps instead of zippers (zippers can break when exposed to dirt). A separate design from your climbing pack for versatility. 3. Belay Specs Belay glasses are becoming an increasingly popular piece of climbing gear—and for good reason! What are belay specs? These are specialized glasses that allow the belayer to look ahead while seeing above. Think of eyeglasses with little prisms. Why do we recommend belay specs? These clever glasses reduce neck strain while belaying, allowing you to focus on your climber without discomfort. Where do you get belay specs? You can get belay glasses from online retailers or local outdoor climbing such as a Miguel’s Pizza and Climb Shop in our area. You may want to call ahead to check availability and variety if you are looking for a particular pair. Which belay specs should you purchase? Since their popularity has grown there are multiple options on the market. But here are some of our some purchasing considerations and top recommendations. Purchasing Considerations: When choosing belay glasses, consider: Price : Affordable options (around $30) are often sufficient and durable. Peripheral View : Glasses with good peripheral vision are safer and often preferred by those prone to motion sickness. Weigh t: Lightweight designs with minimal nose material are ideal, especially if you wear corrective glasses or sunglasses. Accessories : A protective case is essential, especially when storing belay glasses alongside the rest of your climbing gear. Neck straps are also highly practical, making it easy to take the glasses on and off, and they work seamlessly with helmets. Top Recommendations: Top recommendations include BG Climbing (affordable and durable), Pitch 6 (adjustable prisms), and Y&Y Vertical (multiple options including corrective or protective eyewear clip-on style). 4. Performance Climbing Shoes The discussion of climbing shoes can become quite complex and particular. We will simply stick with some basics for this post. What are performance climbing shoes? For our purposes, performance climbing shoes will mean a climbing shoe that has a moderate to aggressive downturn in which toes are slightly or highly curled. Why do we recommend these types of climbing shoes for climbing in the Red River Gorge? This type of shoe mold will help to point and hook your toes onto pockets on the Red’s infamous steep climbing routes. Where do you get performance climbing shoes? Because you are looking for such a precise fit and your foot is unique it is best to get your climbing shoes from a local retailer. Miguel’s has a great selection in our area. You can also purchase climbing shoes online. Which climbing shoes should you purchase? Again because performance climbing shoes are so precise to your unique shoes, it is highly recommended to try them on and if you are able, try climbing or putting your toes and edges on climbing holds. Look for a fit with a moderate to aggressive downturned toe-box. Your toes should fit tightly, filling the toe box. The heel should also be snug, lacking the ability to slide off the back of your heel. The shoe should not be baggy around your heel but it also shouldn’t be digging into the back of your foot. Insider’s Tip : Events like the Rocktoberfest have shoe demos in which you can try out various brand’s models in the Red River Gorge. 5. Assisted Braking Belay Device Although the standard for belay devices is becoming assisted braking devices, it is still an important piece of equipment that we feel should be on this list. What is an assisted braking belay device? A belay device is used by the belayer to manage the rope as the climber is ascending or descending a route. An assisted braking device is designed to help the belayer in the event of a fall by adding a braking mechanism. Why do we recommend ABD belay devices for the RRG? We recommend ABD (assisted braking devices) for the RRG for multiple reasons. Here are a few: Due to the nature of climbing in the Red, falls are common. An ABD adds a layer of safety. If the climber wants to get back to their last piece of protection after a fall, an ABD is very helpful as a progress capture. Rockfall is not uncommon in our area. If the belayer is hit by falling debris, an ABD can add some security. Where do you get ABDs? You can get climbing assisted braking devices from online retailers or local outdoor climbing such as a Miguel’s Pizza and Climb Shop in our area. Which climbing assisted belay device should you purchase? There are many well-recommended ABDs on the market and climbers have appreciated all the growth in technology. Here are a few to get you started in your research of the best ABD for you or your party. Petzl GriGri Petzl Neox Black Diamond ATC Pilot Eldrid Pinch Eldrig Mega Jul Beal Birdie We are happy to help! Sometimes climbing equipment recommendations can be overwhelming. Feel free to email or call us with specific questions. Equip yourself properly, enjoy the incredible routes, and make the most of your time in this world-class climbing destination!

Spring is one of the best times to visit Red River Gorge , offering appreciable climbing conditions, vibrant wildflowers, and scenic hiking trails. As the cold of winter fades and the summer heat has yet to arrive, the Gorge comes alive with lush greenery and flowing waterfalls. Whether you're planning a climbing trip, a hiking adventure, or simply want to explore, this guide will help you make the most of Red River Gorge in the spring . 1. Spring Weather in Red River Gorge Spring in Red River Gorge brings mild temperatures, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities. Average Temperatures: March: Highs around 60°F (16°C), lows around 35°F (2°C) April: Highs around 70°F (21°C), lows around 45°F (7°C) May: Highs around 75°F (24°C), lows around 55°F (13°C) Weather Patterns: Spring sees a mix of sunny days and occasional rain showers. Mornings and evenings can be chilly, so pack layers. Rain can make gravel roads rutted and hiking trails mucky and slick—use caution. 2. Spring Climbing in Red River Gorge Spring is one of the preferred seasons for climbing in the Gorge, thanks to comfortable temperatures. Best Spring Climbing Areas: Arsenal and Solarium – Two nearby crags in Muir Valley that have good sun aspects for the cooler mornings and a bit of steepness to help keep some rain off. Miller Fork – Try Chaos, Serenity Point, or Fruit Wall in Miller Fork for good sun aspects, wide grad range, and a bit of steepness. Left Flank – A classic crag in North Gorge that gets sun. Tips for Spring Climbing: ✅ Check the hourly weather report – Being up to date on the local weather forecast is necessary in the early Spring season. Watch for the warmest parts of the day and for rain. ✅ Pack bug spray – As temperatures rise, insects start to appear. ✅ Watch for muddy trails – Spring rains can make approach trails slippery; wear waterproof hiking shoes with good tread. 3. Best Hiking Trails to Explore in the Spring If you’re looking to take a break from climbing or simply want to explore, Red River Gorge offers incredible hiking trails , especially in spring when wildflowers are in bloom. Top Spring Hiking Trails: 🌿 Auxier Ridge Trail (5 miles round-trip) – One of the most scenic hikes in the Gorge, offering stunning ridge-top views of Courthouse Rock and Haystack Rock. 🌿 Sky Bridge Trail (0.8 miles loop) – A short but scenic hike featuring a natural rock bridge and breathtaking springtime views. 🌿 Rock Bridge Trail (1.4 miles loop) – A lush, creekside hike leading to one of the only natural bridges in the Gorge with water flowing beneath it. 🌿 Gray’s Arch Trail (3.4 miles round-trip) – A must-see in the spring, this moderate hike leads to one of the most impressive sandstone arches in the region. 🌿 Indian Staircase & Cloud Splitter (5 miles round-trip, unmarked trail) – For the adventurous hiker, this challenging hike offers unique rock formations and incredible overlooks. 4. Other Spring Activities in Red River Gorge Beyond climbing and hiking, Red River Gorge in the spring offers plenty of other outdoor activities. 🌊 Kayaking & Canoeing – Spring rains bring higher water levels, making it a great time to kayak or canoe along the Red River. Rentals are available from local outfitters. 🦅 Wildlife Watching – Spring is a great time to spot deer, wild turkeys, and even bald eagles. Head to the quieter areas of the Gorge for the best chances of wildlife encounters. 🌸 Photography & Sightseeing – Spring blooms add vibrant colors to the landscape, making it a perfect time for photography. Popular spots like Chimney Top Rock and Half Moon offer incredible panoramic views. 🍕 Enjoy Local Eats – After a day of adventuring, stop by Miguel’s Pizza , a famous climber hangout, for a post-climb meal. 5. Tips for Visiting Red River Gorge in the Spring Start early – Spring weekends can get busy, especially at popular climbing crags and trails. Arriving early helps you avoid crowds. Dress in layers – Mornings and evenings can be chilly, while afternoons warm up quickly. Layering ensures you stay comfortable. Check trail & rock conditions – Rain can make some trails muddy and rocks unsafe to climb. Always check the latest conditions before heading out. Respect Leave No Trace principles – With spring bringing more visitors, it’s important to pack out all trash, stay on trails, and respect the natural beauty of the Gorge. Conclusion: Experience the Best of Red River Gorge in the Spring Spring is one of the best times to visit Red River Gorge, offering ideal climbing temperatures, stunning hiking trails, and incredible natural beauty. Whether you’re sending your first sport route, hiking to a scenic overlook, or simply soaking in the fresh spring air, there’s no shortage of adventure to be found. Plan your trip, pack your gear, and get ready to experience the magic of Red River Gorge in the spring ! Click here to book us as your Red River Gorge Climbing Guide Click here for more information about our via ferrata