Things to do in Red River Gorge

rock climbing

Pictured is Noah Havlik, owner and operator of the Red River Gorge Shuttle climbing a first ascent of a multipitch route at the Long Wall in Red River Gorge called Catharsis Wall. This photo is a shameless plug at the top of a page about local rock climbing and more specifically guided rock climbing in the Red River Gorge

Rock climbing in Kentucky’s Red River Gorge is world famous. The Corbin sandstone provides the perfect venue for any skill level, from beginners to the worlds best climbers. There are thousands of climbing routes both sport and traditional that are considered world class in quality. Find more information online on Mountain Project, or purchase on of several quality physical guidebooks. 

New to climbing? Hire a local guide!

Southeast Mountain Guides is one of the most established guide services in the area. We offer guided rock climbing and rappelling for all skill levels, both at world-class crags throughout the Red and on our own private crag, perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. We are also home to the only Via Ferrata in the Red River Gorge, a one-of-a-kind adventure that’s accessible for beginners, exciting and ideal for families, groups and thrill-seekers.”

A young women sits and smiles for a photo on a ledge while using the via ferrata.
Young man navigates his way through Southeast Mountain Guides Via Ferrata which is located at their facility in the Red River Gorge. Its the only Via Ferrata in the area, boasting a large distance that even passes behind a waterfall.

Bluegrass Climbing School is an excellent guide service. They employ some of the highest qualified guides in the southeast and provide a multitude of courses for beginners as well as experts. They offer both single pitch and multi pitch adventures and learning experiences!

Red River Gorge Climbing Guides is a another top notch guiding service ran by expert guide, Matt Kiroff. They offer many courses from rappelling experiences to even learning to bolt your own route like a pro! Level up your climbing with Red River Climbing Guides!

A woman smiles over the edge of a cliff in a guided rappelling activity facilitated by Red River Climbing Guides, another great guide service in the Red River Gorge

Always follow leave no trace ethics and principles

Map of Natural Bridge State Park

For a detailed map showing hiking trails of the Geological North Gorge

For a detailed map showing the layout and climbing crags of PMRP by the RRGCC

For maps of Muir Valley