If youre taking on a hair-raising whitewater experience, a drysuit will keep you dry best. If youre not comfortable paddling in dark or enclosed spaces, then an underground kayaking trip might not be right for you. $105 Adult . The Gorge Underground is a 100-year-old mine located in Wolfe County, Kentucky. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. The Gorge Underground is located on KY11 just south of Natural Bridge State Park. Amish country is also just 15 minutes away with a great bakery, markets and greenhouses. The guided tour is suitable for children and adults of all ages. As well as kayaking, there are so many other reasons to visit Red River Gorge. If youre looking to go cave kayaking, Red River Gorge area is the perfect place to go. Paddle your way through the mine in a kayak on this unforgettable one-hour tour. We're Ron & Jess. If youre looking for a great way to soak in the beauty of the area then you cant beat kayaking down the Red River. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water and pack snacks and a first-aid kit. In general, the rapids of the gorge are appropriate for paddlers of all ability levels, from novices to expert kayakers. NOTE: Accommodates 2 adults, 2 kids (17 and under) and 1 pet with a $25 pet fee. Red River Adventure offers kayak rentals and the rental cost includes a paddle, lifejacket and the shuttle ride to the launching point. Kayaking at The Red is not to be missed, but there are some dangerous areas that shouldnt be taken on lightly. Once you have a permit, you can go cave kayaking. The name isnt great, we know, but its a great spot for experienced kayakers. The best place to rent floating equipment for kayaking at Red River Gorge is at Red River Adventure. 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. You can either kayak down the Red River, or you can go cave kayaking at Red River Gorge. You can do a variety of outdoor activities, including caving, hiking, and biking. The hike gained national recognition, which led to the river eventually earning its protected title as a National Wild & Scenic River! There are also a few places in the mine where the water drips from the ceiling, but your guides will direct you around these places. Which Will You Choose: Red River Kayaking Or Gorge Underground Kayaking? You can also find a guide to help you with the activity if youre unsure of what to do. However, it is necessary to be in excellent physical shape and comfortable in the water, since kayaking may be physically taxing. Located one hour from Lexington, Eco Tour company SUP Kentucky offers a variety of outdoor . Close to hiking, ziplining, horseback riding, underground kayaking, and great local restaurants. The following are some suggestions to assist you in the planning of your trip. You wont beat the views at the Gorge, with exposed sandstone sheer cliffs, interesting geological formations, and sweeping areas of flowers, it doesnt get much more Instagram worthy. Canoeing, Kayaking and Camping! underground kayaking trip while youre at the Red River Gorge. But when is the best time to go kayaking in the Red River Gorge? I also was impressed at how clear the water was. Louisville, KY: 1 hr 59 mins There are unpredictable currents and it can be extremely technical in low water, but it remains a key attraction of the gorge. When youre kayaking through caves and caverns, its very easy to get lost. Unlike kayaking above ground, you wont get tired, as youll be wearing headlamps and helmets. You need to make sure that you plan your route in advance and choose a put-in and take-out place that is suitable for your degree of experience and the duration of your journey. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". There are many different things to do in Red River Gorge, including cave kayaking. . This area is ideal for beginners as it is easy to paddle and isnt very deep. The best time to go underground kayaking in the Red River Gorge is during the fall or spring. Lots of Fun!!! The Red River Gorge is known as one of Kentucky's greatest treasures, and in recent years it's gained popularity for being the perfect outdoor destination. That means youll need to bring along enough food and water for everyone in your group. Youll be provided with kayaks and personal flotation devices and will also be fitted with a helmet and headlamps. Heres what you need to know about cave kayaking. If you love the outdoors, there is no end of amazing activities to do when you visit Red River Gorge. 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. The water level is usually lower during these seasons, which makes for easier and safer paddling. The Red River, which runs through the region and is famous for the reddish color of its water, which is produced by the presence of iron oxide in the soil, gave the gorge its name. And if youre kayaking with a group, make sure everyone knows the plan in case someone gets lost. They are located right on the Red River and provide wonderful service and great equipment. The Red River is also home to 70 species of fish, and 16 different kinds of mussels. You can opt for a group tour or a private tour for your family. . Kids tends to get colder, so dress them warmly. And finally, youll need to be comfortable with heights. 715 crosses the concrete bridge and the ramp is on the left just after with a circle gravel parking across the street. We limit our kayak tours to 12 people and our SUP tours to 10 because it becomes very difficult to hear the guides when you are spread out in a bigger group. $5/1 day; $7/3 day; $50/annual. The kayaks are relatively stable and are safe even for beginners. There are actually two sections of the Red River that you can kayak. To get a good look at the scenery, head to the Red River Gorge Underground with your kayak. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. All of our cabins are located in the heart of the The Red River Gorge. Should You Buy A Surfski Or A Kayak For Your Adventure? Rock climbing, hiking, and glamping in the Red River Gorge are all common activities that take place in the gorge, which is also home to a wide diversity of plant and animal life, including some species that are very rare or endangered. There are a few different floating options that you can choose from when going on the Gorge underground kayaking adventure. Its also a good idea to pack some snacks, just in case. If you are coming with more than 12 people, we highly recommend our cave boat tour which can accommodate up to 20 people. Know where youre going and what youre doing. Whereas the Chocolate Factory is the most popular choice with some easier lines for beginners. But, you should learn kayaking safety techniques first! During these months, rainfall is average, so youre most likely to get a safe water level to kayak on. Native Americans and European immigrants have both made Red River Gorge their home over the course of many thousand years, contributing to the regions illustrious past. Its an incredible feeling to paddle through the caves and see the amazing rock formations all around you. We understand that sometimes plans change. Its an amazing experience because youre kayaking through caves and tunnels that were formed by water erosion over millions of years. With towering sandstone cliffs, over 150 named sandstone arches, unique and lush flora, hiking trails for all ability levels, over 3,000 bolted sport climbing routes, and rushing mountain streams all around, the Red River Gorge (RRG) is a nature lover's paradise. 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! It's within Daniel Boone National Forest . All with king size beds, wi-fi, Smart TV's and hot tubs. Night Kayaking in Key West: A Complete Guide, The 19 Best Places To Go Kayaking In Michigan. You can either call 844-254-6244 or head totheir websiteto book your tour online. In some cases, you may even be forced to spend the night in the cave or cavern. To float this section of the river start at the Big Branch Canoe Launch. Our Torrent Falls cabins are located 7 miles south, off of exit 33 on Natural Bridge Rd (Hwy. Professionally guided . This river is known for flooding and in 1962, the area experienced the worst flooding in 100 years. Kayaking through the underground is a great way to connect with nature. In east-central Kentucky, the Red River Gorge sits tucked away inside the expansive Daniel Boone National Forest. A waterproof outer layer. The degree of difficulty of the rapids in Red River Gorge varies based on the portion of the river youre paddling and the time of year. The seat is likely to be wet. 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. There will be a quick intro to paddling given for each craft before departure. Underground kayaking takes you to places you never would have seen otherwise, and the views are simply breathtaking. 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. Geologically, it is part of the Pottsville Escarpment. This popular attraction offers a paddle tour of a limestone mine. In the heart of Kentucky, nestled in theDaniel Boone National Forest, youll find the Red River Gorge. This unique adventure will amaze you as you kayak through the cool underground. If you love the idea of booking anunderground kayaking trip while youre at the Red River Gorge, check out our in-depth guide for everything you need to know. Dress in layers since the weather in the gorge may be unpredictable. Koomer Ridge is one of the most popular spots but its usually pretty full in peak season. The Red River Gorge is one of the most stunning natural attractions in east-central Kentucky and is part of the Pottsville Escarpment. The location of Red River Gorge Underground is about three and a half hours from Lexington, Kentucky. From the Motherlode to the Chocolate Factory, there are some unbeatable climbing spots to take on while visiting the gorge. The Gorge Underground is open year round! An underground kayaking trip in the Red River Gorge is an incredible experience that youll never forget. If youre worried about getting cold, its best to dress in layers. Lots of Fun!!!''. A life vest. There are a few things to keep in mind before you go underground kayaking in the Red River Gorge. If youre looking for an outdoor adventure, I highly recommend kayaking in the Red River Gorge. If you love adventure and are looking for the best place to try it out, you should visit the Red River Gorge underground kayaking. As you paddle through the cave you will see huge rainbow trout that call this cave home. Kayaks and canoes are available as single or tandem. These organizations can supply all essential equipment, such as kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices, as well as skilled guides who can take you through the rapids and show you the greatest locations to explore. We're here to give you tips, inspiration, and practical travel planning advice so you are excited & prepared for your next adventure. Much of the Gorge is located inside the Daniel Boone National Forest and has been subsequently reserved as the Red River Gorge Geological Area, an area of around 29,000 acres. Usually late December to late May are the best options. The area has classic gear lines like the 5.10a Rock Wars and the 5.7 Roadside Attraction. mb1. The Gorge has many rock climbers from all over the world, and this makes it an ideal destination for beginners. In addition to kayak tours, The Gorge Underground offers boat tours and guided stand-up paddleboard tours through an abandoned Limestone mine. Tour guides provide all of the equipment, including a helmet and PFD. River Keepers Rental Shack. Watch for 715 and take a right. Our thrilling Red River Gorge zipline canopy tour sweeps through the Daniel Boone National Forest and above the breathtaking Red River Gorge. For most people, the best time to go kayaking in the Red River Gorge is during the spring or fall. There are a few class I rapids making it still very exciting. Some people also get wet from the water dripping off their paddles, but if you hold your paddle low this should not be a problem. It is famous for the sandstone cliffs, towering rock arches, and lush woods that can be found there. You should contact these organizations in advance to establish whether or not a permission is required, as well as the steps necessary to get one. Red River Gorge: This business provides Red River Gorge underground kayaking tours and cave boat tours. The map also shows the jumping rocks/swimming hole as well as the suspension bridge that you will pass when kayaking Red River Gorge KY. If youre looking for the best kayaking experience, spring and fall are definitely the times to go. Kayak Crappie Fishing Tricks To Hook The Big One. How Much Wind Is Too Much For Kayaking? But there are also many Class I paddling opportunities for those looking for something more relaxed. 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. With soaring cliffs and majestic arches, Red River Gorge near Slade, Kentucky is an awe-inspiring place to visit. Cumberland District, Red River Gorge - Backcountry camping in the Red River Gorge between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.. The tours last one hour, but you will need to arrive 30 minutes prior to your tour time for check in and to put on gear. Saw a deer mom and 2 babies, cranes, turtles, and ducks. We try our best to keep you dry, but there are times when you may get a little wet. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. This article is going to talk about both, so you can decide which type of kayaking you want to do while youre visiting Red River Gorge! So if youre going to kayak in the Red River Gorge in the winter, be sure to dress appropriately and be prepared for the cold. Wonderful Guides, Amazing Place and Just a Peaceful, Enjoyable Experience!!! Whether youre a beginner or an experienced kayaker, underground kayaking in the Red River Gorge is an experience you wont soon forget. But if youre interested in kayaking in the Red River Gorge at other times of the year, heres what you need to know. North Lake Tahoe Kayaking And Fishing Guidelines, All The Best Places For Kayaking In Tampa. There is no wind, waves, or current in the mine, so it is a gentle, easy paddle. Get our Weekly Magazine & discover the best kayaking experiences! Underground Kayaking Places To Eat Rock Climb Hike Fishing Trail & Horse Riding Natural Bridge State Park Nada Tunnel Daniel Boone National Forest Explore The Gorge With amazing activities like ziplining across the Red River Gorge, kayaking through caves, rock climbing, hiking, and horseback riding, there's always something to do here! 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. . Youll see many rainbow trout as you paddle. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. If youre feeling claustrophobic, take a few deep breaths and focus on your positive intentions for being there. The underground kayaking tour is safe for children and non-swimmers. Not only is it an incredible adventure, but its also a great way to get your heart pumping and your muscles working. All on the beautiful Cliffview property so an adrenaline-filled day can end comfortably. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go kayaking and dress appropriately for the conditions. Visitors flock to the area for world-class climbing, icy cold swimming holes, and hiking and backpacking trails. In fact, drowning is one of the leading causes of death in underground kayaking accidents. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. A cave kayaking excursion can be a thrilling experience. You will end your trip at our campground/parking lot where you parked your vehicle. The cave boat tour is probably the best choice if you have small children. The higher you go, the better the views, and you cant beat the views at the gorge. The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, and features LED lights and expert guides and photographers. Red River is a quaint, year around mountain town that is all about relaxation and fun! *When we went kayaking in July, we tried to rent a tandem kayak but we were informed that we would drag too much because of the weight so two single kayaks were a better option. Exploring Red River Gorge By Underground Kayak Is Something That Belongs On Every Kentuckian's Bucket List. You'll be provided with kayaks and personal flotation devices and will also be fitted with a helmet and headlamps. Paddle your way through the mine in a kayak on this unforgettable one-hour tour. We saw lots of birds, fish, and a snake. It may be the South's best-kept secret. Longer tour, clear kayaks and sups, LED lights, smaller group sizes and photo album option! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Imagine Kentucky's most scenic views, topped with the rush of lifetime. Float Trips Kayaking at Red River Gorge was one of our favorite things we did when we visited the area. Lush, rolling hills teem with wildflowers and covered in a thick canopy of trees. If you choose the see-through kayak, you will be able to see whats below you and if the trout are ever swimming under your kayak! We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Youll paddle through caves and tunnels, and see things that you never thought possible. Unearth The Voyage contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. With increased water levels and more steep rapids, certain portions of the river are more difficult than others. You can also try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking through the glowing caverns. The last technical section of this run, the Dogs Drowning Hole should be scouted in advance as its very technical in low water and has unpredictable currents with high water. 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. The Narrows is where the Class III rapids begin and where the fun truly happens. There are a number of risks associated with underground kayaking, and these include getting lost, being trapped, and drowning. The Gorge Underground also puts on a fun Halloween themed Kentucky kayaking experience where you paddle through the mine unguided and in the dark. Functional '' kayaking excursion can be found there, head to the launching point take-out locations along Sheltowee. 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