Red All Over
In Kentucky’s Daniel Boone National Forest, Red River Gorge offers rugged beauty, geological wonders, and quiet moments that feel far from the everyday rush. On a recent trip, I found that the Gorge is about more than where you hike. It is also about where you sleep, what you eat, and how you let the rhythm of the wilderness guide your pace.
Get Some Sleep
We camped along the edge of Clifty Wilderness and the Red River Gorge Geological Area at a back-country site. You will need a parking pass if you go this route, and we purchased ours at the Shell station in Slade, Kentucky. The setting delivered seclusion, a small natural bridge within walking distance, and the sound of a creek and waterfall nearby. At dusk, the sun dropped behind the hills and our fire became the only light, creating a calm that stayed with me long after we left.
For those who prefer other accommodations, the area offers a range of options. Sage & Cedar and Cozy Creek have charm and comfort for couples or small families. The Amazonia Treehouse and the cliff-perched Cliff Dweller provide unique stays with memorable views. Cliffview Resort and Lodge offers large cabins, modern amenities, and hot tubs that work well for romantic getaways or group trips. Natural Bridge State Resort Park features lodge rooms and cottages with easy trail access.
Can’t Miss!
For a first visit, Natural Bridge or Sky Bridge is a must. These sandstone arches are easy to reach and offer sweeping views. Other highlights include Chimney Top Rock, Double Arch, Courthouse Rock, and the Auxier Ridge Loop.
We stayed near Rock Bridge, which is both scenic and easy to reach. The trail follows a creek and passes through shaded forest. It is a relaxing hike with enough beauty to make it memorable without the need for long climbs.
The Dish
While we always bring our own food when camping, Miguel’s Pizza in Slade is legendary! Known for fresh toppings like spinach, feta, sun-dried tomatoes, and roasted garlic, Miguel’s also serves pasta dishes and breakfast burritos. The setting is casual, with hikers and climbers sharing tables and swapping stories.
Other notable options include Red River Rockhouse for grass-fed burgers, burritos, and fish tacos, Daniel Boone Coffee Shop for biscuits and gravy before an early hike, and Thatcher Barbecue Company for slow-smoked ribs and live music at the Pit House.
Getting There
From Northern Kentucky, we took I-75 through Lexington, then I-64 to Winchester, and followed the Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway into the Gorge. The drive took about one hour and 45 minutes. On the way back, we chose Route 27, which added about 30 minutes but offered a scenic drive through hills, farmland, and forest.
Hot Tips
When visiting Red River Gorge, it helps to pack light, even for overnight, back-country camping, because you will not need as much as you might expect. Choose your trail based on the type of experience you want – Clifty Wilderness offers solitude, while more central Gorge spots attract larger crowds. Plan for quiet nights by staying farther from popular trailheads, where the evening feels more like yours alone.
Above all, slow down. The Gorge is not a checklist but a place to linger and fully take in the surroundings.
Waking up to the sound of water in Clifty Wilderness, standing on Natural Bridge with the valley below, and hearing trail stories at Miguel’s are the kinds of moments that define the Gorge. It is a place to look, breathe, and keep exploring.
– Jarrett Baston