Explore the various climbing areas within the Red River Gorge. Although climbing in the RRG is expansive, it can be broken down into distinct areas. Below you’ll find information about the Daniel Boone National Forest, Pendergrass-Murray & Bald Rock Recreational Preserves, Miller Fork Recreational Preserve, Cave Fork Recreational Preserve, Muir Valley, Graining Fork Nature Preserve, Torrent Falls, Ash Branch Climbing, and Cathedral Domain. Discover the breadth of the Red’s offerings as you get ready to embark on climbs that range from beginner-friendly to elite-level, with something for every climber.
You can also browse the full catalog of RRG climbing areas and routes on Mountain Project or the Red River Climbing app.
Climbing Areas
- Daniel Boone National Forest (DBNF) — the historic “North Gorge,” home to classic sport and trad climbing.
- Pendergrass-Murray & Bald Rock Recreational Preserves (PMRP/BRRP) — steep cave climbing and the legendary Motherlode.
- Miller Fork Recreational Preserve (MFRP) — well-bolted sport climbing across varied angles.
- Cave Fork Recreational Preserve (CFRP) — the RRGCC’s newest and largest property, home to The Venue.
- Muir Valley — a meticulously maintained nature preserve with routes for every level.
- Graining Fork Nature Preserve (Roadside) — an old-school classic with sport and trad testpieces.
- Torrent Falls — a private crag with some of the Red’s most iconic sport lines.
- Ash Branch Climbing — one of the Red’s newest climbing areas, opened in 2024.
- Cathedral Domain — a quieter alternative within an 800-acre retreat center.
Not sure where to start? Check out our Recommended Routes page for highly-rated climbs by grade and discipline.