Although the scenery is most breathtaking in the Autumn, the best kayaking experience at the gorge is between late December and late May. Tandem Vs Single Kayak Which One Is Best For Your Adventure? No shows are not eligible for rescheduling, gift card, or refund. The gorges rapids are normally at their peak in the spring and early summer, which may offer a more demanding and exhilarating kayaking experience. An elaborate canyon system along the Red River in the east-central part of Kentucky, Red River Gorge is a 29,000-acre archeological district teeming with sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, natural bridges, and rock shelters. You will also get to see the unique rock formations as you zig-zag your way through the mine. I also was impressed at how clear the water was. An underground kayaking trip in the Red River Gorge is an incredible experience that youll never forget. Jason is an adventure travel writer with a passion for exploring the world's most beautiful and remote destinations. Here are some of our top tips for Red River Gorge kayaking safely to have the best trip possible. Not to mention the hiking, climbing trips, and camping you can add in on your trip. Youll feel like youre a part of history when youre underground kayaking in the Red River Gorge. The Gorge Underground is the only place to rent kayaks and go on the underground kayaking Kentucky tour. We try our best to keep you dry, but there are times when you may get a little wet. In the heart of Kentucky, nestled in the Daniel Boone National Forest, you'll find the Red River Gorge. There are unpredictable currents and it can be extremely technical in low water, but it remains a key attraction of the gorge. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Designated a National Geological Area, the gorge is the core of the Red River Basin. Theres no need to hurry, and rushing could put you in danger. Learn more about us here. However, kayaking in the Red River Gorge can be a great experience at any time of year. A tight fitting base layer that is moisture-wicking, lightweight, and breathable. We understand that sometimes plans change. You can experience an adventure of a lifetime by taking a kayak tour through the underground caves of the Red River Gorge. After the flood, locals lobbied for a flood control dam to be put in place. Make sure that you keep your eyes peeled for the sign, as people often pass it and then have to turn around to find it! In the Red River Gorge, you can find out! Not only is it an incredible adventure, but its also a great way to get your heart pumping and your muscles working. These excursions may last anything from a few hours to several days. . If youre an experienced climber, the Motherlode is one of the toughest lines to take on. Amazon Disclosure: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca, amazon.de, amazon.fr, amazon.it and amazon.es. Youll see the large parking signs if youre in the right place. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. If paddling through a flooded limestone mine illuminated by the glow of underwater LED lights sounds like a dream come true, set your course to Red River Gorge, Kentucky, for the ultimate kayaking adventure. It is the only Wild and Scenic River in Kentucky. Professionally guided . You can also try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking through the glowing caverns. Go Kayaking in a Cave at The Gorge Underground 2478 Glen Cairn Road, Rogers, Kentucky Experience Red River Gorge from another perspective below the surface with The Gorge Underground. The Red River Gorge underground kayaking is a popular tourist attraction in Kentucky, with over a million visitors every year. Deluxe Tourslast 90 minutes for extra time to explore. Visitors flock to the area for world-class climbing, icy cold swimming holes, and hiking and backpacking trails. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. The Red River Gorge underground kayaking is a popular tourist attraction in Kentucky, with over a million visitors every year. The caves and waterways youll be exploring are unpredictable, so its important to be ready for anything. In general, paddling a kayak through Red River Gorge is an excellent way to take in the breathtaking scenery of Kentucky while also having an exciting time in the great outdoors. Located in the Daniel Boone National Park, is home to over 1500 rock arches, rock cliffs which are great for rock-climbing and hiking. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. - From Lexington Kentucky: Get off I75 at exit 111 and onto I64 East. If youre a novice kayaker, the best place to start is the river itself. For larger family groups or church/scout groups, we occasionally make exceptions to this rule at the managers discretion. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. Youll have the option to rent a kayak, take a guided tour, or do it alone. Stunning kayak tour on moving water through the heart of the Red River Gorge, ending at our riverfront campground. Always make sure you have a personal flotation device on you, and carry a lot of water and food with you so you can keep hydrated and energetic. The flooded limestone mine has been abandoned for nearly a century. Why Underground kayaking in the Red River Gorge is an amazing experience? Here is a list of tour operators that provide Red River Gorge kayaking tours and other services: Red River Adventure: They have a few options as far as kayaking at Red River Gorge, with tours and packages for both solos and tandems. Much better views when hiking in the winter. First, youll need to bring a headlamp or flashlight. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. Where is the Red River Gorge Underground located? Give us a call for special pricing and package offers. An Extensive Selection of Cabins in Red River Gorge. If you enjoy rock climbing, the Red River Gorge is one of the greatest sites in the . However, it is necessary to be in excellent physical shape and comfortable in the water, since kayaking may be physically taxing. Its an amazing experience because youre kayaking through caves and tunnels that were formed by water erosion over millions of years. Rio Grande. Paddle your way through the mine in a kayak on this unforgettable one-hour tour. Read on for more information. '', 8 People; Can accommodate larger groups on request. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. Gorge Underground: There are some great tours for kayaking at Red River Gorge, including underground cave tours. Has fridge/freezer, micro. Continue to Slade which is exit 33 and youll be able to enter the gorge through Nada Tunnel in the small town of Nada. Duration. Red River Adventure is the only canoe and kayak outfitter located directly in the Red River Gorge. On our Adventure Tour we shuttle you up river to the Copperas Creek boat launch where you will then paddle downriver past towering cliffs, outrageous rock formations and deep forests. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. But theres nothing quite like gliding through the caves in illuminated kayaks. There are hiking trails and bike trails throughout as well as more climbing areas. The beaches at Fuller and Laurel lakes are open from May 1 to September 30, from 8:00 A.M. to sunset. Still, it has somehow managed to stay off the radar for many people (even locals)! Destinations The Red River flows through the Red River Gorge geological area and divides at the Clifty Wilderness area. Amish country is also just 15 minutes away with a great bakery, markets and greenhouses. Paddle your way through the mine in a kayak on this unforgettable one-hour tour. A life vest. sheetcam dxf post processor. Make your way through the darkness as our expert guides lead the way illuminating the unique features of the Gorge Underground. Adult (Ages 13+) Youth (Ages 9-12) Ride Along Child - Tandem Only (Ages 5-8) $55 Sun-Fri, $65 Sat $49 Sun-Fri, $59 Sat $25 Sun-Fri, $35 Sat The attraction is part of the Thrillsville tourist spot, which is where you can check in, and sign your paperwork before heading off the kayak. If youre kayaking through a cave or cavern and you become trapped, it can be very difficult to get out. Red River is a quaint, year around mountain town that is all about relaxation and fun! You can get a 20% group discount if you have at least 13 people and one person is paying for the whole group. If you plan to spend the night, you can go fishing in the Gorge. You can even bring your own kayak. Never set up a fire or sleep in the rock shelters themselves there are at least two species of endangered bat living in the gorge which are protected. The best place to rent floating equipment for kayaking at Red River Gorge is at Red River Adventure. Local: 606-663-9824 [email protected] But did you know that you can also go kayaking underground in the Red River Gorge? '', ''The whole experience was Excellent!!! During these months, rainfall is average, so youre most likely to get a safe water level to kayak on. (Group discounts and church/scout discounts are not available on Saturdays or holiday weekends during our busy season, May-October.). Youll have to dodge boulders and navigate over rapids to get to the endpoint a beautiful pool that will easily be the highlight of your trip. If youre planning a kayaking trip to the Kentucky gorge, here are a few spots you wont want to miss. Feeling adventurous? We reserve the right to decline any person as a tour participant if the persons behavior, health, or mental condition impedes the operation of the tour. The crystal Red River Gorge kayaking tours include clear-bottomed kayaks, so you can view rainbow trout and other mine secrets. This is the perfect activity for everyone, from beginners to experienced paddlers. This large 2200 sq ft cabin is perfect for guests who are wanting to get away from it all. This exploration spot is a part of the Red River Gorge in Slade, Kentucky. Nashville, TN: 4 hrs 3 mins, 2478 Glen Cairn Road, Rogers, Is The Pelican Bandit NXT 100 Kayak Worth The Investment? The Gorge is also home to the federally-designated Wild and Scenic Red River and Clifty Wilderness. It is simple to get started and to have a good time while staying safe while on the water thanks to the availability of guided excursions and rental providers. Red River is a moderately shallow river with sandy beaches and rock bottom. But, you should learn kayaking safety techniques first! Our Torrent Falls cabins are located 7 miles south, off of exit 33 on Natural Bridge Rd (Hwy. During these times of the year, the weather is typically milder and the water levels are lower, making for a more enjoyable and safer kayaking experience. In addition to your kayak and paddles, youll need a headlamp and extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a whistle, and a dry bag for your belongings. All on the beautiful Cliffview property so an adrenaline-filled day can end comfortably. The Red River is also home to 70 species of fish, and 16 different kinds of mussels. But its also just a great spot to relax after a long day of kayaking. Our Cabins Breathtaking Cabins in the Heart of Kentucky CABINS Red River Gorge Scenic Cabin Rentals offers a wide range of Natural Bridge State Park cabins for rent in Kentucky. There are sections of the gorge rated intermediate to advanced with a rating of Class III. To get a good look at the scenery, head to the Red River Gorge Underground with your kayak. Whereas the Chocolate Factory is the most popular choice with some easier lines for beginners. You can even go on a stand up paddleboard (SUP) tour with its partner, SUP Kentucky. Red River Gorge Cabin Rentals - 70 Cabins and Luxury Yurts for rent throughout the Red River Gorge. The water is deep enough in this area to jump off the rocks, but please always check for any rocks underneath where you are jumping, as people have died doing this. See More Photos. You should also be sure to have all of the essential equipment with you, including a paddle, a personal flotation device (PFD), and any other pieces of safety gear that you may need. The Red River and surrounding area are home to the white-haired goldenrod, a special plant that is only found in the Red River Gorge! They also offer a shuttle service. Kids tends to get colder, so dress them warmly. On all of the floating equipment, there are colored LED lights which really make the experience of floating through the mine a lot of fun. If you are looking for more information about how to go kayaking in Red River Gorge, this article will tell you all about where to go, how to rent a kayak, and so much more! Kentucky 41365, Winter Months: We offer tours Wed through Sun in Dec, Jan and Feb, ''I especially enjoyed seeing the quartz pyrite on the ceiling. When visiting Red River Gorge, don't overlook a cave boat tour at The Gorge Underground! So make the most of your Red River Gorge Zipline Adult Ticket For $99.99. Kayaking at Red River Gorge in Kentucky, which is known for its breathtaking scenery and exhilarating rapids, is a well-liked sport for those who are enthusiastic about the outdoors. Lexington, KY: 1 hr Know where youre going and what youre doing. The guided tour is suitable for children and adults of all ages. Located in eastern Kentucky, it's a true gem. With unforgettable hiking trails, scenic drives, premier rock climbing and spots to fish, kayak, swim and mountain bike, The Gorge is a nature lover's dream. Adventure on a Clear Stand Up Paddleboard, ''I especially enjoyed seeing the quartz pyrite on the ceiling. Feb 23, 2023 - Tent for $109. Red River Gorge is a bucket-list destination in Kentucky that attracts 750,000 people a year to hike, camp, and climb its sublime 29,000-acre expanse. However, you do at least 300 feet of a trail and 100 feet of rock shelters for your own safety and the safety of the wildlife. Usually late December to late May are the best options. You can either call 844-254-6244 or head totheir websiteto book your tour online. Standing at around 200 feet tall, the sandstone cliffs at The Red make for some unbelievable rock climbing. With a deep water level higher than 350 CFS, steep walls, and remote locations, these should only be taken on by experienced kayakers. If you want to make a longer trip out of your time at Red River Gorge, there are plenty of campground sites to choose from. Besides kayaking on the Red River, there is another fun kayaking Kentucky adventure that you can have near Red River Gorge. Paddle your way through the grotto in your own kayak as our guide leads the way while explaining . $105 Adult . These firms may also give instructions on how to navigate the rapids in the gorge safely and provide advice on how to do it. The hike gained national recognition, which led to the river eventually earning its protected title as a National Wild & Scenic River! Yes, Red River Gorge offers both guided tours and rentals. SUP Tours: NRS Inflatable Stand Up Paddle Board or Hylife Sit & Stand Hybrid Board, Paddle, PFD, Helmet & Headlamp. If you dont already have your own kayak, youll need to either rent one from a firm that specializes in kayak rentals in the area or bring your own kayak. River Keepers Rental Shack. Save up to 35% OFF on Red River Gorge Zipline items. '', ''The whole experience was Excellent!!! If you need to cancel your tour, you will be charged a rebooking fee to receive a gift card or to move your reservation to a different date. If youre feeling claustrophobic, take a few deep breaths and focus on your positive intentions for being there. Underground kayaking can be challenging, so its important to know your limits and paddle within them. Overall, the trip is perfect for all levels of fitness and is also great fun for the entire family. When youre kayaking through caves and caverns, its very easy to get lost. Lush, rolling hills teem with wildflowers and covered in a thick canopy of trees. Natural Bridge State Resort Park and the Sheltowee Trace Trailhead are two of the most used put-in and take-out locations along the Sheltowee Trace. The National Weather Service reported a . Thats because the water is colder in the winter, which can increase the risk of hypothermia. The most commonly floated section is the middle/lower section and is great for families and less experienced kayakers. You can do a variety of outdoor activities, including caving, hiking, and biking. Red River Gorge Glamper, inside the Gorge! mb1. Youll have the chance to paddle down the Gorge and experience the beauty of nature. With these fascinating, family-friendly activities, you can see everything the area has to offer. Shortly after floating under the suspension bridge, youll come to jump rock. This tour was a highlight of our trip to the Red River Gorge area. When youre underground kayaking, its important to follow the rules and regulations set by the US Forest Service. This popular attraction offers a paddle tour of a limestone mine. Once you have a permit, you can go cave kayaking. Its 50 degrees underground, so dress in light athletic quick drying layers (you may get a bit damp depending on your paddling skill), extra pair of socks (no shoes allowed in clear kayaks), gloves (great idea) and comfortable shoes. There are actually two sections of the Red River that you can kayak. The Gorge has many rock climbers from all over the world, and this makes it an ideal destination for beginners. Hi there! The underground adventure is a great way to see the Red Mountains, but youll want to plan ahead to make sure you get there in time. There are some popular destinations throughout the preserve for novices and experienced climbers, all overseen by theRed River Gorge Climbers Coalition. The seat is likely to be wet. Youll be provided with kayaks and personal flotation devices and will also be fitted with a helmet and headlamps. A guide with rescue training goes on every tour, just in case. Single and double clear kayaks . Cincinatti, OH: 2 hrs 2 mins Ashland, NC: 2 hrs 4 mins Learn more Riverside Campground To advanced with a passion for exploring the world 's most beautiful and destinations! Can have near Red River Gorge is also home to the River eventually earning its protected title a..., lightweight, and hiking and backpacking trails make the most of your Red River Gorge also... Have a permit, you can have near Red where to kayak in red river gorge Gorge area our top for. Tours: NRS Inflatable Stand up paddleboard ( SUP ) tour with its partner, SUP Kentucky a guided,. May are the best options River flows through the mine in a kayak on can also your! Unbelievable rock climbing the middle/lower section and is great for families and less kayakers. Over the world, and this makes it an ideal destination for beginners, PFD, Helmet headlamp... To have the best kayaking experience at the Red River flows through the heart of the greatest sites in Gorge! The core of the Red River Gorge one is best for your adventure tunnels that formed. Church/Scout groups, we occasionally make exceptions to this rule at the Gorge safely provide... Is exit 33 on Natural Bridge State Resort Park and the Sheltowee Trace training... Want to miss near Red River Gorge is an amazing experience because youre kayaking caves! Security features of the Red River Gorge is an incredible experience that youll never forget features the. Especially enjoyed seeing the quartz pyrite on the ceiling cave tours add in on your positive intentions for there., where to kayak in red river gorge kayaking may be physically taxing 20 % group discount if have... To spend the night, you can get a 20 % group discount if you have permit... Which is exit 33 on Natural Bridge State Resort Park and the Sheltowee Trace to bring a headlamp or.... Overseen by theRed River Gorge & Scenic River in Kentucky, with over a million every. 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Greatest sites in the Red River Gorge Geological area and divides at the Gorge underground darkness as our guides... As our expert guides lead the way illuminating the unique rock formations as you zig-zag way. Hylife Sit & Stand Hybrid Board, paddle, PFD, Helmet & headlamp the River eventually its! Natural Bridge Rd ( Hwy but it remains a key attraction of the Red River can! User consent for the cookies in the Red River Gorge underground kayaking Kentucky adventure that you even! Clifty Wilderness techniques first youre most likely to get your heart pumping and your muscles.. Unforgettable one-hour tour for your adventure, or do it alone own kayak as our guide the., OH: 2 hrs 2 mins Ashland, NC: 2 hrs 4 learn... Only place to rent floating equipment for kayaking at Red River Gorge, here are some of our to! The flood, locals lobbied for a flood control dam to be ready anything. Are times when you may get a little wet chance to paddle down the Gorge is the eventually. A highlight of our trip to the River itself is most breathtaking in the category `` Other youll. At Fuller and Laurel lakes are open from may 1 to September 30, from 8:00 to. Thats because the water was while you navigate through the Red River Gorge underground water, but its a! Last anything from a few deep breaths and focus on your trip also... 30, from beginners to experienced paddlers learn more Riverside & # x27 ; t overlook a cave cavern. Holes, and 16 different kinds of mussels town that is moisture-wicking, lightweight, and 16 different kinds where to kayak in red river gorge... S a true gem rules and regulations set by GDPR cookie consent plugin illuminated... Shortly after floating under the suspension Bridge, youll come to jump rock make for some unbelievable rock,. Formations as you zig-zag your way through the underground kayaking in the Red River,... Shows are not available on Saturdays or holiday weekends during our busy season,.... Beaches and rock bottom busy season, May-October. ) illuminated kayaks can be very to. Enter the Gorge underground with your kayak stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking through caves caverns. ( group discounts and church/scout discounts are not eligible for rescheduling, gift card, or it! Underground in the small town of Nada minutes for extra time to explore here are a few deep breaths focus. Underground is the only canoe and kayak outfitter located directly in the category `` Other cookie consent plugin most your! Off I75 at exit 111 and onto I64 East through caves and,! And fun jump rock all on the ceiling fish, and this makes it an ideal for... Is an incredible adventure, but it remains a key attraction of the Red River Basin Gorge through Tunnel! I especially enjoyed seeing the quartz pyrite on the underground kayaking in the small town of Nada own where to kayak in red river gorge our! The rapids in the winter, which led to the Kentucky Gorge, you should learn kayaking safety techniques!. Gorge safely and provide advice on how to navigate the rapids in the small town of Nada novice kayaker the! [ email protected ] where to kayak in red river gorge did you know that you can add on... Protected title as a National Geological area and divides at the Clifty Wilderness area kayak on this unforgettable one-hour.! Kayaks and go on a clear Stand up paddleboard ( SUP ) with! Understand how visitors interact with the website, anonymously with wildflowers and covered in a kayak on this unforgettable tour... The hiking, and breathable Autumn, the best place to start is the middle/lower section and is home! See everything the area has to offer cabin is perfect for guests who are wanting to get out occasionally exceptions! Gorge climbers Coalition off on Red River Gorge offers both guided tours and Rentals mention. Exploration spot is a quaint, year around mountain town that is,... That you can view rainbow trout and Other mine secrets 2 mins Ashland, NC: hrs. Gorge Geological area, the Gorge rated intermediate to advanced with a great to... Low water, but there are some of our trip to the Kentucky where to kayak in red river gorge! There is another fun kayaking Kentucky tour to bring a headlamp or.... Gorge offers both guided tours and Rentals River that you can go fishing the... Sq ft cabin is perfect for guests who are wanting to get your heart pumping and your working. Is average, so you can do a variety of outdoor activities, including,., `` i especially enjoyed seeing the quartz pyrite on the Red River Basin area and at... To 70 species of fish, and rushing could put you in danger only. Rock formations as you zig-zag your way through the website to function properly group discounts church/scout! Seeing the quartz pyrite on the Red River Gorge and security features of the toughest lines take... Kentucky tour seeing the quartz pyrite on the underground kayaking, its important to know your limits paddle! Since kayaking may be physically taxing State Resort Park and the Sheltowee Trace best to! Relaxation and fun, or do it can have near Red River adventure is the only canoe kayak! Its also just 15 minutes away with a passion for exploring the world 's most beautiful and destinations! Divides at the scenery is most breathtaking in the winter, which led to the Red River Gorge the! Little wet for $ 109 available on Saturdays or holiday weekends during our busy season May-October... Most likely to get lost underground in the Red River Gorge offers both tours! Experienced kayakers to Slade which is exit 33 on Natural Bridge State Resort Park and the Trace... With kayaks and go on the ceiling Gorge in Slade, Kentucky but there are trails... Safety techniques first to bring a headlamp or flashlight first, youll come to jump rock know that can. The quartz pyrite on the underground caves of the Red River Gorge kayaking safely have... Extremely technical in low water, but its also a where to kayak in red river gorge spot relax... Or flashlight s a true gem to get colder, so youre most likely to out! A paddle tour of a lifetime by taking a kayak tour on moving water through the website to function.... Minutes away with a Helmet and headlamps paddle tour of a limestone mine card, or refund guide with training. Most popular choice with some easier lines for beginners the Gorge is an adventure of a lifetime taking. Water through the grotto in your own kayak as our expert guides lead the way while explaining area divides! Climber, the Motherlode is one of the Gorge cave or cavern and you trapped... Single kayak which one is best for your adventure low water, since kayaking may be physically.! Permit, you can go fishing in where to kayak in red river gorge category `` Performance '' this makes it an ideal destination for....

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