Red River Gorge Backcountry
Red River Gorge Backcountry is a moderate 40 miles off-road trail near Slade, KY. It requires a properly built 4x4 with All-terrain tires and is best run April - November. Stock trucks and Jeeps are not recommended; plan on the required modifications before attempting it.
Trail Conditions
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Red River Gorge is Kentucky's geological crown jewel, a deeply eroded canyon system carved into the Cumberland Plateau revealing hundreds of sandstone arches, rock shelters, and cliff-lined gorges. Forest roads wind through Daniel Boone National Forest connecting overlooks and trailheads where short hikes lead to spectacular natural bridges and arch formations. The gorge is also home to one of the densest populations of cliff-dwelling species in the East.
Fun Facts
Red River Gorge contains over 100 natural sandstone arches, more than almost anywhere outside of Utah.
The gorge was nearly flooded by a dam project in the 1960s before a grassroots campaign saved it.
The area is one of the premier rock climbing destinations in the eastern United States.
🛞 Tires
⚙️ Drivetrain
🪢 Recovery
Closest campgrounds to Red River Gorge Backcountry:
- Foxfire Woods Campground · Red River Gorge · 2 mi
Where to Camp
GPS Coordinates
Import into Gaia GPS, OnX Offroad, or Garmin
Map of Slade, KY
5-Day Forecast
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
A mild lift, all-terrain tires, and correct gear ratio will get you through this trail confidently.
Tire Size Calculator
Convert tire sizes and compare diameter differences before you swap.
Size up correctly, 33s vs 35s matters on moderate terrain.
Gear Ratio Calculator
Find the right gear ratio after lifting or upsizing tires.
Re-gear after a tire upgrade to restore trail torque and MPG.
Wheel Fitment Calculator
Calculate backspacing and offset so wider wheels clear your suspension.
Extra wheel width = extra clearance on tight lines. Check offset before buying.
MPG Calculator
Estimate fuel economy after a tire upgrade, important for remote runs.
Bigger tires cut MPG. Plan your fuel stops for this trail.