Author: Kassie Oglesbee
Red River Gorge Vacation; A vacation in the Gorge is unlike any other. While some vacations require sandals for the beach, things are a little more adventurous in the Gorge! So here it is: your comprehensive list of everything you need to make your Gorge vacation safe, comfortable, and fun!
Sunscreen
This should be a staple for your vacation in the Gorge any time of the year, but especially during the summer! If you are headed this way, you’ll most likely be spending quite a bit of your time outdoors. Gotta keep that skin protected! Consider bringing along a hat/clothing that keeps you breezy yet covered as well.
Hiking Boots/sturdy footwear
You definitely don’t want to be hiking the Gorge in flip flops. Probably would not be too comfortable. Comfort aside, the Gorge is home to many snakes, and you will want to protect yourself as best as you can! One wrong step could lead to a defensive strike from a snake, which could easily be harmless if those feet and ankles are covered!
Backpack
You definitely want to have something with you to store all of your necessities. For me when I hike, I get ravenous, and need an endless supply of granola bars. Your snack of choice may be different, but you will probably still want a backpack full of them, as well as water, and everything else you might need! You certainly don’t want to be out mid-trail without everything you need.
First Aid Kit
Accidents happen – sometimes you need a Band-Aid. While most things probably will not require immediate medical attention (we hope!) it’s always good to have a kit with you, to treat any scrapes or bruises you might run into in your adventure.
A Bathing Suit
Most of our cabins have hot tubs that run 365 days a year. In order to enjoy that highly requested amenity, you’ll definitely want to bring along your favorite swimwear. As well as for any swimming you might want to do anywhere else! Just because you aren’t at the beach doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a good soak.
Supplies for S’mores
Seriously, what is a woodland adventure without s’mores? Plus, you’ll definitely want a sweet treat after hiking all day. Bring on the chocolate!
Flashlight
Always just a particularly good thing to have with you – especially if you are planning to keep hiking until the sun is trying to go to sleep. Or for those early morning hikes to catch the sunrise (which we would highly recommend)!
Matches
Pretty much a staple in any adventurer’s pack. You will definitely want those for that campfire. Bonus points if you waterproof ones!
Repellent
Insects seem to have vendetta against me personally, because I’m always the first to get bit, and about a million times. Especially in those summer months, you will want to have repellent with you, and lots of it. Ticks are thick here in Kentucky, and the last thing you want is to find one of those on you days after your adventure ends. Better to be safe than sorry!
Lastly, you will want to have your favorite travel companion with you!
Vacations are always so much more fun when you have your best pals with you, whether that’s your partner, best friend, family member, or furry friend. Make sure you bring them along with you and create some amazing memories in this beautiful place!
Summers in the Gorge are a beautiful thing. Make sure you bring everything you need to make your summer vacation smooth and safe! What are some of your favorite gear that you bring along with you on your adventures? Let us know the comments below!
