Red River Gorge Beginner Backpacking Trip

Red River Gorge Weekend Backpacking Trip

A relaxed, friendly backpack to Hansen’s Point with an optional side adventure

If you’re new to the group or new to outdoor adventures, you are absolutely welcome here. This trip is designed to be approachable, supportive, and fun. We hike at a comfortable pace, we look out for each other, and we make sure everyone feels included. If you’ve been wanting to try backpacking with a friendly crew, this is a great place to start.

THE BACKPACK
We’ll hike about 3 miles from the Grey’s Arch Trailhead to Hansen’s Point. The trail is mostly flat, and we’ll take our time. Expect about 1.5 hours of hiking with breaks as needed. You’ll be carrying your gear, but we’ll help you think through what to bring so your pack stays manageable.
If you’re new to backpacking, don’t worry — many of us started right where you are. Ask questions, bring what you have, and we’ll help you fill in the gaps.

THE OPTIONAL SIDE HIKE
Once camp is set up, we’ll offer an optional side hike on the Greys Arch Loop. This one is more challenging, with slick rocks, mud, scrambling, and water crossings. It’s totally fine to skip it and relax at camp instead. We never leave anyone behind, and we always encourage people to hike at the pace that feels right for them.

FOOD AND WATER
Everyone brings their own meals. Water is available near camp, but it must be filtered. We’ll also pass by our vehicles during the side hike, so you can pick up extra water if needed. Start with as much water as you can comfortably carry.

RESTROOMS
Restrooms are only at the trailhead. After that, it’s nature. Bring a small scoop to bury waste properly. We’ll explain how to do this if you’re new to it — no judgment, no stress.

WHAT TO BRING
Dress in layers. Bring sleepwear, a headlamp with extra batteries, a stove and cookware, and trekking poles if you have them. Avoid cotton clothing. Wear good hiking footwear and bring camp shoes like Crocs (great for creek crossings).

WHAT TO LEAVE AT HOME
Pets, cosmetics, and anything heavy or non‑essential. You don’t need multiple outfits. Many backpackers wear the same clothes the whole trip and bring only extra socks and undergarments. Bring trash bags — we pack everything out. We follow Leave No Trace and help each other learn the basics.

LOGISTICS
Meet at the Grey’s Arch Parking Lot at Red River Gorge. A Google Maps link will be provided.
Dayton carpool meets at Austin Landing near Chuy’s.
Driving time: about 3 hours from Dayton, 2 hours from Cincinnati.
Parking permit info was provided earlier.
This is an out‑and‑back hike. The side hike is a loop.

SEASONAL NOTES
We’ll watch the weather closely and reschedule if needed. Expect slick rocks, mud, cold creek crossings, and chilly nights. We’ll help you prepare so you stay warm and comfortable.

A LITTLE HISTORY
Red River Gorge is a special place shaped by millions of years of wind and water. It’s home to more than 150 natural arches, deep canyons, and rock shelters used by humans for over 12,000 years. Today it’s protected as a National Natural Landmark and part of the Clifty Wilderness. It’s a beautiful place to learn, explore, and unwind.

SAFETY, WAIVER, AND REQUIREMENTS
You must sign the Accident Waiver and Release of Liability when you arrive or update your profile to indicate acceptance. I am not your guide, your hiking guru, or a person assuming any responsibility whatsoever. I love you all, but I love my family more. Emergency contact information will be collected and destroyed after the event.

• Participants must be 18 or older.
• You should be in good health and able to carry a loaded pack.
• We recommend “training before trying” — load your pack and take a short local walk beforehand.
• Expect chilly nights, cold creek crossings, and slick rock.

CANCELLATION POLICY
If your plans change, please update your RSVP so we can plan well. No‑shows make things harder for the group. The organizer may cancel or reschedule if weather or attendance changes. We want everyone to have a safe, positive experience.

PACKING CHECKLIST (BEGINNER‑FRIENDLY)
Backpack
Backpacking tent or shelter
Sleeping bag
Sleeping pad or air mattress
Headlamp + extra batteries
Stove and cookware
Freeze‑dried meals
Snacks
Water bottles or water‑carry bag
Water filter or purification system
Trekking poles
Layered clothing
No cotton clothing
Good hiking footwear
Quality hiking socks
Camp footwear (Crocs recommended)
Lightweight sleepwear
Extra socks and undergarments
Body wipes
Small trowel or scoop
Trash bags or zip‑top bags
Personal medications
Map or downloaded offline maps
Optional: gloves, hat, small first aid kit, repair tape, lightweight sit pad
Note: message the organizer if you have questions. Happy to provide a list of items that is more complete and help answer your questions.