Are you looking for an out-of-the-box adventure that’s sure to illuminate your Facebook feed?
Look no further than the unique underground kayaking and paddle boarding tours at Red River Gorge Underground, located near Slade, Kentucky.
Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a curious newbie, these tours offer an exhilarating way to explore a flooded limestone mine, turning a simple outing into a spectacular subterranean adventure.
About the Tours
Nestled just off State Highway 11, a short drive south from Natural Bridge State Park, the entrance to the underground wonder awaits.
With cozy cabins and campgrounds nearby—not to mention the legendary pizza at Miguel’s—this area serves as the perfect basecamp for your underground expedition.
Some scenic hiking trails, like Hanson’s Point and Gray’s Arch, are also just a stone’s throw away, making it a prime spot for nature lovers.
Booking Your Adventure
Operated by Gorge Underground, these tours come in various flavors.
From classic boat rides to crystal clear kayaks outfitted with neon lights, there’s an option to match your adventure level.
Partner company SUP Kentucky also offers stand-up paddle boarding experiences.
It’s crucial to book online in advance, as these tours are a hot commodity, especially during weekends.
With small group sizes, you’re guaranteed a personalized and immersive experience.
What to Expect
Upon arrival, you’ll be equipped with a personal flotation device and a helmet with a headlamp.
After a brief history lesson of the century-old mine, you’ll delve into its depths.
Choose from a range of tours: glide through the cavernous space in a crystal clear kayak, navigate in a custom-built cave boat, or stand atop a glowing paddleboard.
Whichever you choose, expect to see playful salamanders, cave crickets, and even the occasional bat.
The Main Event
As you paddle through the eerie, yet mesmerizing underground passages, your guide will not only help navigate but also entertain with delightful dad-jokes and fascinating tidbits about the mine’s history and geology.
The vibrant LED lights on your kayak or paddleboard add a magical touch, revealing the underwater life, including rainbow trout, in a spectrum of colors.
Guides/Photographers trailing the group ensure that your unique journey is captured from start to finish, with photo albums available for purchase afterward.
Preparation is Key
The underground climate can be chilly, so dressing in layers is wise.
For the Crystal Kayak tours, remember, no shoes allowed in the boats, so bring warm socks—NRS Hydroskin socks are a popular choice.
Gloves, like the NRS Women’s HydroSkin gloves, are also a good idea.
Don’t worry if you forget yours; rentals are available on-site.
You can read more specifics and see pricing at the Gorge Underground website.
Final Thoughts
An underground tour at Red River Gorge isn’t just about escaping the ordinary; it’s about stepping into a world that few have witnessed.
This one-and-a-half-hour journey offers a blend of history, nature, and a bit of glow-in-the-dark magic that makes it a must-do activity.
Whether you’re in it for the thrill, the cool underwater views, or simply to enjoy some dad-jokes in a cave, this experience is sure to leave you with stories to tell and photos to share.
So why wait? Dive into the depths of Kentucky’s hidden underwater trails and light up your adventure spirit!