For those who are not familiar with the sport of rock climbing, The Red River Gorge is one of the premier destinations for climbers from around North America and the larger globe. Located in Southeastern Kentucky, The Red has long been a proving ground for elite climbers that serves equally well as a learning crag for those entering the sport. Fox has been visiting rural Kentucky since 2006 and was more than ready to return in October of 2020 with Amaris, her two children, and a long time friend. Following a summer 2020 trip, the guys were ready to climb some classics and share the sport with a younger generation. A week of sport climbing, remote living, and expanding personal limits would be water for everyone's souls.
For the second trip to The Red in a row the crew booked an Airbnb near Vincent, KY at Chelsea's Cabin, which sits nestled in the Appalachian Plateaus region of the mountain range. A wrap around porch, plush green rolling hills, and pond with livestock welcome those who are willing to stay a little bit farther out there. Heading inside, the screen door swings outward, wood doors push inward, and the crew enters the comfortable space that would be home for the following nights. An open living room with two couches, kitchen with table for 6, and two bedrooms that don a queen or bunk bed complete the getaway. Upon arriving near midnight on Wednesday, after listening to the Vice Presidential Debate on the final stretch, the gang was ready for sleep with an early morning on the docket.
Morning arrived quickly with a thick fog rolling through as the sun begun to rise. Visibility was low as everyone enjoyed coffee, prepared for the day, and took in the surrounding nature as roosters ensured no one missed the morning. As mentioned, The Red is a premier destination for rock climbing with a primary factor being the truly massive amount of climbs present within close proximity. Any one of the dozens of individual crags (cliff bands) in the area would provide years of climbing on its own. Along with the climbing, there are many other ways to enjoy The Red River Gorge Geological Area such as fishing, horse back riding, and hiking at Natural Bridge State Park. As well, there are several options for camping and cabins near Slade, KY.
Over the course of the next couple days we would climb at The North Forty, including the stunning line of Amarillo Sunset pictured above, The Shire, The Zoo, and the famous Motherlode where some of the world's strongest climbers come to test their limits. The days were enjoyable as the youngsters learned new skills and everyone pushed their personal limits. After long days on the rope there are few things better than delicious grub and an Ale-8-One or locally crafted beer. For those new to climbing at The Red or for those just passing through there is a solid selectin of local eateries along Natural Bridge Road (Hwy 11) for excellent meals.
Miguel's Pizza - The original hangout for climbers with excellent pies, a large campground, gear shop, and great company.
La Cabana - Authentic Mexican food with strong drinks that are great after a day of strenuous activity.
Red River Rockhouse - A variety of locally sourced food options pair well with the tap beer, wine, and bourbon. Check website for seasonal hours.
Kentucky Mountain Moonshine - Near Ravenna and Irvine on Hwy 52, the Kentucky Mountain Moonshine distillery makes some of the smoothest Appalachian fuel Fox has ever had.
Daniel Boone Coffee Shop - There are few better ways to start the day than with a fresh cup of coffee and this roadside coffee shop certainly does not disappoint. With great Joe, a gift shop, outdoor patio, and happy hour beverages this is a great stop any time of day!
After a few great days of climbing and a last night at the cabin that included grilled steaks we were on our way back to Chicago. On the way out of the state we stopped in Lexington for lunch and a quick visit with our pilot friend from the helicopter ride in Atlantic City and his wife. After lunch we stopped by their place for a bit to catch up more while the kiddos enjoyed an incredible arcade machine Tony built from scratch with essentially every arcade through N64 game ever made.
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