Red River Gorge, in 3 Days

How we packed cave kayaking, a waterfall, hiking and more into our Stanton, KY roadtrip

If you're looking for the perfect mix of scenic views, outdoor adventures, and small-town charm, look no further than Red River Gorge in Kentucky. Nestled just a short drive from Stanton, this natural wonderland offers everything from underground kayaking to epic hikes. Here's how we made the most of a 3-day trip based in Stanton, blending iconic destinations with hidden gems.

Day 1: Arrival, Sunset Views & Stargazing:

Arrival in Stanton (~4 PM) After checking into our cozy rental in Stanton, we took a moment to relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings. It's a great spot to base your trip—close to everything but far enough from the crowds.

Sunset Point Overlook (7–8 PM) Our first adventure was a short hike to Sunset Point Overlook. This was the perfect way to kick off the trip—panoramic views, a glowing horizon, and a peaceful hush settling over the Gorge. We made sure to bring flashlights for the hike back since twilight quickly gave way to darkness.

Evening Vibes: Hot Tub, Pond Wandering & Stargazing Back at the cabin, we embraced the evening with a soak in the hot tub, a stroll around the pond, and some seriously starry skies. Pro tip: bring insect repellent—May nights are beautiful but buggy.

Dinner Picks We wrapped up the night with dinner at Miguel’s Pizza (a Red River staple), but other solid options include Red River Rockhouse and Sky Bridge Station. Definitely check their hours ahead of time, especially if you’re eating late after sunset.

Day 2: Underground Kayaking, Sky Lifts & Local Finds: Red River Gorge Underground Kayaking We started our day with one of the most unique experiences around—kayaking through a flooded underground cave. It was a surreal mix of adventure and serenity, and totally worth booking ahead.

Natural Bridge State Park & Sky Lift Next up: a trip to Natural Bridge State Park. We opted for the sky lift, which saved our legs and gave us incredible views from above. Once at the top, we explored the trails and marveled at the sandstone arch.

Afternoon Antiquing & Local Shops In the afternoon, we took it slow, exploring antique shops and a few local boutiques in nearby towns. It was a fun way to find a unique souvenir and experience the local charm.

Travel Tip: With a packed day like this, bring snacks and lots of water. Starting early helps you beat the heat and the crowds.

Day 3: Iconic Trails, Waterfalls & Fossils: Rock Bridge Loop & Creation Falls We dedicated our final day to some classic hiking. The Rock Bridge Loop Trail took us through lush forest to the stunning Creation Falls, one of the most photogenic waterfalls in the Gorge. The trail can be muddy in May, so good hiking shoes are a must. Optional Add-ons: Ziplining or Fossil Hunting If you’re looking for more adventure, ziplining in the area is a great way to get above the trees and see the landscape from a new angle. For a more laid-back afternoon, fossil hunting near your lodging (if allowed) is a quiet, meditative way to wrap up the trip. Serious fossil hunters might consider a drive to the Maysville Roadcut (~1.5–2 hours), where ancient marine fossils are abundant—but it’s a half- or full-day excursion.

Final Thoughts

Three days in and around Red River Gorge fly by, especially when you're staying in a peaceful spot like Stanton. This itinerary gave us the perfect balance of nature, thrill, and small-town charm. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, paddling underground, or soaking in a hot tub under the stars—this is one Kentucky adventure you won’t forget.

Quick Packing Tips:

·       Bug spray & sunscreen

·       Flashlights/headlamps

·       Reusable water bottles & trail snacks

·       Good hiking shoes (trails can be muddy)

·       Layers—weather in early May can be unpredictable

If you’re planning a trip to Red River Gorge, consider Stanton your gateway to both the wild and the wonderful. You’ll come for the cliffs and caves—but you’ll stay for the serenity.