Fall Colors @ Red River Gorge, KY

Let's Camp: Red River Gorge, KY

We are camping at Red River Gorge, KY the last weekend of October. It should be prime fall colors viewing. With its endless trails, legendary climbs, and breathtaking views, the massive Red River Gorge is one of Kentucky's most beloved natural treasures.

We will be doing a lot of hiking. You may join us or chose you own activities. Warning: Some hikes will be very strenuous. Feel free not to hike with us.

We will be camping 3 to 6 nights at Koomer Campgrounds. (Some will be staying 3 nights, some will be staying 6 nights. Come as long as you like.)

FYI: Average Temps: High 64 Low 42, Sunrise: 7:54 EDT, Sunset: 6:43 EDT

Post in the comments if you are looking to share a ride and/or a campsite.

I am on Site #7. (There is a campground map in Photo's below.)
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Tentative Schedule (TBD):

Friday Morning: Auxier Ridge/Courthouse Rock/Double Arch trail loop
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=viBzfd7exhg
Saturday Morning: Indian Staircase and Cloudsplitter trail.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12vY_m2N92M
Saturday Evening: Potluck. Please bring a dish to pass.

Sunday Morning: Pack up and head for home.
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The Red River Gorge Geological Area is a stunning 29,000-acre canyon system located within the Daniel Boone National Forest in east-central Kentucky.

Renowned for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, densely forested valleys, and over 150 natural sandstone arches, it is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Key Features & Geography

• Geology: Contains the highest concentration of natural sandstone arches east of the Rocky Mountains, alongside deep gorges, rock shelters, and waterfalls.
• The Red River: A designated National Wild and Scenic River and Kentucky Wild River that cuts through the rugged terrain, popular for paddling.
• Clifty Wilderness: A protected 13,379-acre pristine wilderness area located entirely within the gorge, safeguarding rare flora like the endangered white-haired goldenrod.
• Nada Tunnel: A historic 900-foot, one-lane limestone logging tunnel built between 1910 and 1912 that serves as the dramatic gateway to the gorge.

Popular Activities

• Hiking: Features over 60 miles of scenic trails, including famous routes like Auxier Ridge, Grays Arch, and the nearby trails at Natural Bridge State Resort Park.
• Rock Climbing: Recognized globally as a premier sport-climbing destination with thousands of established routes along the towering sandstone bluffs.
• Underground Adventures: Offers unique experiences like guided subterranean kayak tours through flooded limestone mining caverns via the Gorge Underground.
• Scenic Driving: The 46-mile Red River Gorge Scenic Byway winds past breathtaking overlooks, historic sites, and local landmarks like the legendary Miguel's Pizza.

Red River Gorge NPS website : https://www.fs.usda.gov/r08/danielboone/recreation/red-river-gorge
Hiking Map: https://redrivergorgetourism.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/red-river-gorge-hiking-map-summer-2025.pdf

Camping:

We will be staying at Koomer Ridge Campgrounds. There are showers and flush toilets but no electricity. Half the sites you can reserve and half are 1st come 1st serve. The cost is $35 per night. ($17.50 per night if you have the America the Beautiful pass.)

Make reservations at: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10311270

Koomer Ridge Campgrounds Map: https://usfs-public.app.box.com/s/uv28hc08gky5zkaw4bzowmqk1jbiqgs3

This is a great trip. I hope you can make it.

Kevin