Best rock climbing red river gorge via ferrata map Even beginners & kids can experience this bucket list extreme sport. Southeast Mountain Guides is your headquarters for guided rock climbing, Via Ferrata climbing, and rappelling in the Red River Gorge. Torrent Falls Climbing Adventure, located in the Red River Gorge, Kentucky, consists of a Via Ferrata, guided rock climbing, and guided rappelling. Feb 3, 2023 · Via Ferrata The best beginner rock climbing experience! Find a climbing experience like no other on the Red River Gorge’s only Via Ferrata! This climbing path spans ¾ of a mile of the rugged sandstone cliff line, equipped with cables to clip into and iron hand- and foot-rungs just where you need them to hold onto and step on. Camping in and around the Red River Gorge is a great way to enjoy your visit. The Red River might not be impressive, but it’s still good for a splashy arm workout. Married couple Mark and Kathy Meyer wanted to offer a family-friendly way to enjoy the choice rock in the Red River Gorge, so they contracted a team of via ferrata vets from France to build their route. Located at the base of Arapahoe Basin, this Via Ferrata takes climbers through steep rock walls while offering breathtaking views of the Colorado Rockies. In this post, we go into detail about via ferrata – what they are, their history, and what gear you’ll need to get started. Priced at $59, the experience begins with a brief orientation, harness fitting, and training on a wall, ensuring safety for all participants. Trail Maps Explore the Red River Gorge Take out on an adventure with your friends or loved ones and enjoy anything from the mild to the extreme. Maps of your intended hikes and trails are essential for your safety in the RRG, too. 0 miles- unmarked) Walks in Red River Gorge Backpacking RRG Natural Bridge Natural Bridge via Balance Rock and the Original Loop Trails (1. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore many scenic outlooks, stone arches, and unique rock formations. This week we visit the Southeast Mountain Guides just outside of the Red River Gorge in Kentucky. Centrally located to all the hotspots for climbing and hiking in the Red River Gorge, KY, it’s the perfect starting point for your outdoor adventures. The Red River Gorge Via Ferrata lets you securely explore the cliffs and stunning vistas without advanced climbing skills. . Climbers clip in with specialized gear and stay connected the entire time. Apr 17, 2025 · There are so many fun outdoor activities and unique things to do at Red River Gorge in East-Central Kentucky. Scale majestic cliffs, traverse a suspension bridge, and enjoy stunning views and a waterfall backdrop. Where to Find the Red River Gorge via Ferrata Rock climbing at Red River Gorge at the Via Ferrata. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, dive into local favorites like Miguel’s Pizza, The Brick at Red River, or Thatcher’s BBQ. Most of the routes in the gorge favor The term “Via Ferrata,” when translated from Italian, means iron path and is all the rage right now with outdoor enthusiasts looking to get their adrenalin fix. We provide an unforgettable outdoor experience through public access to world class climbing routes at all skill levels, well maintained hiking trails, and opportunities for volunteerism to give back to the community through environmental and Jan 9, 2025 · Southeast Mountain Guides is your headquarters for guided rock climbing, Via Ferrata climbing, and rappelling in the Red River Gorge. Long before the concept of a fixed-anchor climbing route was widely recognized here, this trailblazing experience brought a taste of the Alps to the Red River Gorge region and helped redefine what Muir Valley is a nonprofit nature preserve and rock climbing park run by climbers, for climbers. The area is a popular destination for backcountry camping, canoeing, hiking, and rock climbing. The lengthy course with a 3,400-foot total traverse is broken into six sections for different The Via Ferrata in Red River Gorge Kentucky climb was the 1st in the US, still one of few. Here are six of our favorites in the U. Jun 30, 2023 · Located in Kentucky, the Red River Gorge Via Ferrata spans topography unlike any other in North America. It contains directions to climbing areas, information on the number of routes in each area, and information about the route’s difficulty. First, the view is always breathtaking from the Via Ferrata trails. Jun 28, 2024 · The Red River Gorge Climbing Guide Book is a comprehensive resource for climbers, detailing over 3,000 routes across 54 crags in Kentucky’s premier climbing destination. Take out on an adventure with your friends or loved ones and enjoy anything from the mild to the extreme. The route allows climbers to navigate the gorge’s famed sandstone cliffs, offering a mix of easy to challenging paths. Apr 17, 2025 · Southeast Mountain Guides is your headquarters for guided rock climbing, Via Ferrata climbing, and rappelling in the Red River Gorge. Via Ferrata rock climbing with Southeast Mountain Guides in Kentucky’s Red River Gorge Photo by Jacob Jesionek Kayak to a swimming hole. There are already a few recreational via ferratas spread out over North America; Torrent Falls Climbing Adventure in Red River Gorge was Dec 21, 2021 · About to go to The Red for the first time? Read: The Internet's Definitive Red River Gorge Climbing Guide! Where to climb, camp, eat & more! May 22, 2025 · Tucked into the sandstone cliffs of eastern Kentucky, the Via Ferrata at Southeast Mountain Guides holds the unique distinction of being the very first course of its kind in the United States. May 1, 2025 · Southeast Mountain Guides is your headquarters for guided rock climbing, Via Ferrata climbing, and rappelling in the Red River Gorge. 5 miles) Natural Bridge via Low Gap Trail & Hood’s Branch Loop Trails (5. They gained renewed interest as an outdoor hobby dating back to the 70’s in Europe. Southeast Mountain Guides are expert Red River Gorge climbing guides providing custom climbing, rappelling, and via ferrata courses for all ages & skill levels. At Red River Adventure, you’ll start upstream. Best Nov 4, 2025 · Via Ferrata is an unforgettable recreational activity that involves ascending steep, often exposed mountain routes by way of a system of fixed cables, rungs, and/or ladders attached to the quartz conglomerate rock – the term via ferrata means “iron way. Try rock climbing in the Red River Gorge, Ky on the first Via Ferrata in the Unted States! Torrent Falls Climbing Adventure consists of a Via Ferrata, guided climbing, and guided rappelling. Red River Gorge: Kentucky’s Red River Gorge is a haven for climbers, and its Via Ferrata adds an accessible yet thrilling dimension to the area’s climbing offerings. There are so many incredible things to do in Red River Gorge, from hiking to ziplining to rock climbing, there’s no shortage Find out why Red River Gorge is one of the best single-pitch sport climbing locations in the US, with 3000 routes across more than 100 cliffs. Hiking and Rock Climbing is what Red River Gorge is famous for, but some of the other things you can do are Swimming, Fishing, Kayaking, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Zip Mar 12, 2023 · Where to stay in Red River Gorge: Camping and Cabin Guide by admin | Mar 12, 2023 | Red River Gorge The Red is by far one of the easiest climbing areas to find camping and lodging accommodations, several climber campgrounds and plethora of cabins rentals options exist to fit the needs of most. The Red River Gorge borders the Daniel Boone National Forest and sits on about 29,000 acres, filled with over 3000 routes and around 100 cliffs. Oct 14, 2025 · What’s the Via Ferrata? The Red River Gorge Via Ferrata is a fixed climbing route that uses steel cables and rebar rungs to guide you along a cliffside path. Taking on there 6 stage via ferrata including the famed Black Diamond run. Guided rock climbing and rappelling in the world class Red River Gorge , KY Southeast Mountain Guides has Via Ferrata Climbing, Guided Rock Climbing and Guided Rappelling. Mar 2, 2024 · Kentucky’s Red River Gorge is a true gem, offering rock climbing, camping, kayaking, hiking, and diverse activities, culture, and history. 0 miles) White’s Branch Arch and the Narrows (5. Jan 15, 2025 · Southeast Mountain Guides is your headquarters for guided rock climbing, Via Ferrata climbing, and rappelling in the Red River Gorge. They also offer what’s known as “Via Ferrata” climbing, which is a climbing style in which the climber is secured to a cable system while traversing a cliff face with the aid of iron hand and foot rungs. May 20, 2019 · The Via Ferrata, a new and exciting challenge is here, it is a mixture of alpine hiking and rock climbing. Red River Gorge Geological Area is a destination known by outdoor enthusiasts for its beautiful scenery, natural arches, sandstone cliffs, and incredible rock formations surrounded by forest. The area offers an incredible variety of outdoor and Jan 30, 2025 · Southeast Mountain Guides is your headquarters for guided rock climbing, Via Ferrata climbing, and rappelling in the Red River Gorge. Red River Gorge isn’t just a place — it’s an adventure waiting to happen. The Forest Service and the Park Service have their maps and trail guides online for your convenience. In 2001, Mark and Kathy Meyer opened up the country’s first Via Ferrata in the Red River Gorge. The second edition includes 250 new climbs, covering sport, trad, and via ferrata routes, ensuring an Experience Climbing, Gain Knowledge We create meaningful climbing experiences where we do our darndest to stay safe, have fun, and try hard! Via Ferrata, Guided Rock Climbing, and Guided Rappelling homebased in the Red River Gorge, KY May 24, 2025 · This ultimate guide on things to do in Red River Gorge in Kentucky features hiking, via ferrata, kayaking underground, ziplining, and many more things to do! The Red River Gorge is the premier hiking, backpacking and rock climbing destination in the Upper Ohio Valley. Looking for the Best Guided Climbing Tour in Colorado? Climb the granite rock walls of the Royal Gorge on our new Via Ferrata Attraction! Book your Tour online today! Aug 21, 2019 · Via ferratas offer more convenient form of climbing for the entire family without sacrificing adventure. ” These trails of steel rungs were used by soldiers during World War 1 to move soldiers through extreme mountainous terrain safely. Red River Gorge | Slade | Natural Bridge Explore the Red River Gorge and all that this beautiful region has to offer. Jan 31, 2023 · Within New River Gorge National Park and Preserve are over 1,400 established rock climbs. May 29, 2025 · If rock climbing in Red River Gorge sounds fun, but you don’t own any rock climbing gear, you’ll want to visit Southeast Mountain Guides. Rock Climbing As children are quick learners, you can take them to experience guided rock climbing with proper safety guidelines and holds embedded in the rock. May 22, 2021 · Quick Links: Via Ferrata USA Via Ferrata Canada What is a Via Ferrata? Via Ferrata is Italian for “iron way” or “iron path. And let me tell you that the food alone is worth the trip. Whether you are car camping or backpacking and hauling your belongings there are many great options to meet everyone's wishes. Take a cave boat tour or paddle through the darkness of the Gorge Grotto, zipline across the forested ridges of the Red River Gorge, or take on the heights of America's first via ferrata climbing course. Climbers are equipped with cables to clip into and have iron hand and foot rungs to hold and step onto as they travel horizontally across the Oct 6, 2025 · Southeast Mountain Guides is your headquarters for guided rock climbing, Via Ferrata climbing, and rappelling in the Red River Gorge. It crosses the Arkansas River and climbs into the park’s granite wall formations. Jun 19, 2025 · Get ready for your guided rock climbing trip with Southeast Mountain Guides. Dec 12, 2024 · Try the Red River Gorge Via Ferrata —a fixed-cable climbing route featuring iron rungs and safety lines that guide you along towering sandstone walls. Italian soldiers first utilized via ferratas to traverse the Dolomite Alps during World War I, giving rise to the phrase. You’ll hold iron foot and hand rungs, climb ladders and cross bridges with 4 levels of difficulty. Here are six to try now. 4 days ago · Discover the best rainy-day and rest-day activities in Red River Gorge—from cozy indoor spots to climbing the Via Ferrata, even in the rain. The Via Ferrata is a pretty new sport to the United States, but there are courses for explorers of all levels all over the US. Providing a safer alternative to rock climbing Oct 18, 2023 · NROCKS' route at Nelson Rocks, in Pendleton County, West Virginia is the longest via ferrata east of the Mississippi River and includes about a mile of climbing and several miles of hiking. In this blog, I’ll explain the basics of Via Ferrata, I’ll show you what the Via Ferrata gear looks like, where you can rent it or buy it, and the top 3 best Via Ferrata routes for beginners in Bavaria. Home base in the Red River Gorge, KY with trips offered throughout the Southeast USA. During this visit, I went on two leisurely overnight backpacks, explored via ferrata rock climbing, and hiked a few classic Red River Gorge day hikes. Explore miles of rugged hiking trails, scale world-renowned climbing routes, or soar through the treetops on a thrilling zipline tour. Unlike traditional climbing, it requires no prior experience, making it ideal for beginners. Mar 19, 2015 · Here are five things to do and see while you're there: Climb a via ferrata Italian for "iron road", a via ferrata is a series of metal rungs bolted into a sheer rock wall. Mar 3, 2020 · Red River Gorge is known round the world as a top rock climbing destination. No need to be a seasoned climber; this adventure lets you soak in epic views and experience the heights of the Gorge in a fun, approachable way. Dec 4, 2024 · Spend a long weekend in Kentucky's Red River Gorge Geological Area at the Cooper Pines cabin by the Hideaways. If one is looking for fun in high adventure activities, Torrent Falls with its ability to cater individuals, families, and large groups, is the place to come. Feb 28, 2024 · The first to sidestep the red tape were Mark and Kathy Meyer, owners of Kentucky’s Torrent Falls Climbing Adventure (now Southeast Mountain Guides), who built their via ferrata in a privately Jul 27, 2024 · Book Hotels in Red River Gorge Things To Do In Red River Gorge 1. Mar 8, 2025 · Southeast Mountain Guides is your headquarters for guided rock climbing, Via Ferrata climbing, and rappelling in the Red River Gorge. Aug 21, 2025 · Day 1: Clip In Together on the Via Ferrata Begin your adventure with a bonding experience like no other: the Red River Gorge Via Ferrata. You don’t need formal training to improve your basic rock-climbing skills via Ferrata which comes with ascending order of difficulty. Nov 29, 2023 · Red River Gorge in Kentucky is a paradise for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers. Whether you’re a newcomer eager to reach new heights or an experienced climber looking for a dynamic way to cross-train, our Via Ferrata provides stunning views and an exhilarating challenge. I’m sharing more about the unique experiences and outdoor adventures to add to your list Nov 27, 2024 · What is via ferrata - the latest trend in outdoor adventure? Learn what it is and what it's like. Torrent Falls Climbing Adventure was the first via ferrata opened in North America back in 2001. Jul 16, 2022 · Via ferrata climb A way ferrata, which translates to “iron road” in Italian, is a set of metal rungs screwed into a steep rock cliff. I encourage you to try it. For those who seek the thrill of rock climbing or mountaineering, but don’t have the skills or equipment to do so, a via ferrata route is the perfect option. With detailed maps, route descriptions, and inspiring photos, it’s a trusted companion for climbers of all levels. Learn what to expect, what to bring, and how to make the most of your day. A mix of hiking, rock climbing, and scrambling. Mar 12, 2025 · Southeast Mountain Guides is your headquarters for guided rock climbing, Via Ferrata climbing, and rappelling in the Red River Gorge. Feb 16, 2025 · Southeast Mountain Guides offers guided rock climbing, Via Ferrata, and rappelling services in Red River Gorge. Nov 28, 2012 · Torrent Falls Climbing Adventure, located in the Red River Gorge, Kentucky, consists of a Via Ferrata, guided rock climbing, and guided rappelling. Located on KY-11, they cater to larger groups, providing year-round adventures. Experience heights up to 120 feet while secured via cable on our Red River Gorge Via Ferrata. , great for cross-country road trips. Southeast Mountain Guides, a company based in the Red River Gorge, wants to change that. Jul 27, 2024 · Adventure Trip Via Ferrata at Red River Gorge Cost: $77 | Registration open until trip fills Mar 14, 2020 · Via Ferrata at Red River Gorge with Southeast Mountain Guides 1617 North, KY-11, Campton, KY Guests aged 10 years old and up can challenge themselves and try Via Ferrata on a climbing path that spans ¾ of a mile of the rugged sandstone cliff line. Sharing my trip with Southeast Mountain Guides in Red River Gorge Recreational Area in Kentucky. Adventure If you're looking for a wide array of awesome local attractions,Wolfe County has it all. Spanning a sandstone cliff line and surrounded by natural, forest-lined arches, this Via Ferrata allows climbers to explore the rugged beauty of the region in a thrilling and accessible way. Nov 12, 2014 · Southeast Mountain Guides: Via ferrata in Red River Gorge - See 155 traveler reviews, 167 candid photos, and great deals for Campton, KY, at Tripadvisor. May 15, 2025 · Discover fun, family-friendly things to do in Red River Gorge—from easy hikes and scenic drives to cave kayaking, mini golf, and the thrilling Via Ferrata. Aug 4, 2015 · Torrent Falls Climbing Adventure. Jul 13, 2006 · While based primarily in the Red River Gorge, Southeast also offers guided climbing trips in Tennessee, Illinois, and Virginia. With 70+ miles of scenic hiking trails, picturesque waterfalls, extensive sandstone cliffs, and abundant backcountry camping spots, Red River Gorge stands as a haven for hiking enthusiasts. As the Red River Gorge Climbing Coalition says, the best guide book is the most up to date and accurate one. Apr 12, 2021 · Red River Gorge Via Ferrata at South East Mountain Guides offers an exhilarating adventure in Kentucky. Browse the online guidebook for free, register your Cost ranges from $55 to $205 depending on climb type, group size, and duration. They also boast the first Via Ferrata course in the United States at their facility; spanning nearly 3/4 of a mile and featuring both beginner-friendly and challenging sections of overhanging rock. Here’s a list of our favorites! Author: Erik Kloeker Turtle Back Arch via Rock Bridge Loop (4. The cliffs at New River Gorge are made up of a very hard sandstone, and range from 30 to 120 feet in height. They also offer guided rappelling adventures. Red River Gorge is home to some of the best rock climbing in the United States. 9 miles – unmarked) Comments Jan 30, 2025 · Embark on an exhilarating climbing adventure on the Via Ferrata in Red River Gorge, KY. Nov 15, 2024 · A Via Ferrata, or "iron path," is a protected climbing route equipped with steel cables and iron rungs for your hands and feet. One of the exciting things to do Nearby hotels: Check listings Sights: Idaho Springs Via Ferrata offers a thrilling combination of rock climbing, rappelling, and ziplining, with views of Clear Creek and the Continental Divide. Enjoy Southeast Mountain Guides' via ferrata, rock climbing and rappelling adventures along with The Gorge Underground, Red River Gorge Zipline, Natural Bridges State Park and nearby Cumberland Falls State Park, the only place where you can find a moonbow in the Western Hemisphere. Sep 9, 2022 · Why visit the Red River Gorge? 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. ” With a via ferrata climbing route, climbers/hikers use a harness and two lanyards with carabiners attached to the ends to clip Jul 15, 2020 · Southeast Mountain Guides gets you vertical. 257 likes. In this video I take you on to Central Kentucky to rock climb Via Ferrata sty Jul 31, 2024 · Red River Gorge’s Via Ferrata is a spectacular way to explore the rugged terrain while ensuring a safe and exhilarating experience. May 21, 2020 · For many, the sport of rock climbing can be very intimidating. This was an amazing trip. Sep 1, 2010 · Via ferrata (Italian for “iron way”) is a mountain-climbing method that lets less experienced climbers enjoy views and adrenaline rushes usually reserved for the pros. The rock is very featured, and an abundance of crack and face routes are available. Nov 26, 2024 · Southeast Mountain Guides is your headquarters for guided rock climbing, Via Ferrata climbing, and rappelling in the Red River Gorge. Translated as “iron way,” the Via Ferrata is a 3,000-foot course along a horseshoe-shaped canyon in the gorge. This unique climbing route uses fixed cables and iron rungs to help you scale stunning sandstone cliffs side-by-side. Trail Maps Download an Area Map Red River Gorge Geological Area and Natural Bridge State Park The Red River Gorge is a unique, scenic natural area that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Oct 15, 2024 · Explore the best Red River Gorge things to do—hiking, rock climbing, scenic views, and more adventures for families and outdoor enthusiasts! Feb 9, 2017 · Torrent Falls Climbing Adventures of Campton has brought the nation’s first Via Ferrata to Red River Gorge. With passion, he climbed more than 200 via ferrata all over Europe. A must do in Kentucky! For family travel, too. Since, climbers from all over the world have enjoyed the route […] Discover the hidden gems, fun experiences and unique things to do at Red River Gorge for your next epic outdoor adventure in Eastern Kentucky. Find a climbing experience like no other on the Red River Gorge’s only Via Ferrata! This climbing path spans ¾ of a mile of rugged sandstone cliff line, equipped with cables to clip into, and iron hand- and foot-rungs just where you need them to hold onto and step on. Kentucky’s Red River Gorge boasts incredible hiking trails, rock climbing lines, kayaking trips and more! Check out the best things to do at Red River Gorge. You need no experience for this bucket list item if you're up for the thrill! Jun 15, 2025 · Opportunities to experience via ferrata aren't limited to mountain towns—in fact, the first commercially operated via ferrata route in the country is located in eastern Kentucky's Red River Gorge, a legendary rock climbing destination just an hour from Lexington. This Via Ferrata in Kentucky was the 1st in the US, still one of few, here. Southeast Mountain Guides offers several guided rock climbing adventures, including climbing, rappelling, and Via Ferrata. The Royal Gorge Via Ferrata is one of the attractions at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. May 19, 2023 · Via ferrata is a climbing-hiking hybrid that uses a network of steel rungs, ladders, and cables to allow anyone who’s in decent shape to climb a mountain, on occasion on rock faces approaching vertical. & Welcome to your headquarters for Via Ferrata climbing, guided rock climbing, and guided rappelling services throughout the Southeast United States; home based in the Red River Gorge, Kentucky! Mar 1, 2025 · Beginner - Expert. S. Spectacular rock features, including sandstone arches and towering cliffs, are just part of the attraction. There was lots of The Torrent Falls Via Ferrata story started with the Vision of a young Swiss rock climber and expert in the Via Ferrata world, Laurent Horvath. Visitors can explore the natural wonders of the Red River Gorge Geological Area by travelling along the Red River Gorge Scenic Byway. Red River Gorge is known as a top rock climbing destination in the world. It’s self-paced, with six sections ranging from beginner to expert difficulty, and six exit points so you can climb as much (or as little) as you want. Jul 31, 2025 · Southeast Mountain Guides is your headquarters for guided rock climbing, Via Ferrata climbing, and rappelling in the Red River Gorge. It is one of the most popular rock climbing destinations and attracts climbers from all over the world. "The New" has become one of the most popular climbing areas in the country. For safety, climbers wear a harness that clips into a steel cable that runs along the cliff. Aug 22, 2022 · Long popular in Europe, the beginner-friendly climbing routes are being installed on peaks and in gorges across the United States. Every weekend, crowds from Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, West Virginia and Kentucky, and every other state and many foreign countries descend on the Gorge. Found in Eastern Kentucky deep within Daniel Boone National Forest, the area is made up of towering sandstone cliffs, lush green forests, and a network of meandering rivers and streams. This site provides information on climbing in the Red River Gorge, and an online guidebook with community grade consensus, discussions on quality, and general (sometimes feisty) community conversation. Apr 15, 2022 · The Red River Gorge is a canyon system located southwest of Lexington in eastern Kentucky. 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