The dry microclimate of the rock shelters that were a primary abode of early Americans have preserved, to this day, woven fiber slippers, fiber bags filled with nuts, and wooden tools, as well as the remains of cultivated and uncultivated plants. Most ridges harbor cliff lines with rock shelters at their base. The uniqueness of the Red River Gorge Geological Area and its river corridor is not only a draw for present day adventurers, but as far back as 10,000 years, it drew Native Americans to its natural beauty and abundant resources. The forest website and area bulletin boards provide additional information regarding food storage requirements and other rules. The Red River corridor is black bear habitat. Permits can be purchased at local vendors or Gladie Learning Center. However, Class I-III rapids may be experienced after late fall and spring floods or heavy rains.Ī camping permit is required for dispersed camping in the Red River Gorge Geological Area. The river is too low for canoeing or kayaking most of the year. Forest Service maintains one access point at Copperas Creek Canoe Launch on Highway 715. Hiking, primitive camping, rock climbing, fishing, hunting, canoeing, kayaking, and rafting are allowed where they do not adversely impact the wilderness resource. ![]() Facilities, such as trailheads and bulletin boards, are usually located outside the wilderness. People are challenged to rely on their own physical abilities and follow primitive “leave no trace” recreational pursuits. Access to the river corridor is limited to a few primitive hiking trails in order to protect natural resources rather than provide for for human comfort or convenience. ![]() In other more remote areas, primitive recreation experiences are available. This area is managed as wilderness to provide a semi-primitive, non-motorized experience near trails, access points, and other areas of concentrated use. The scenic beauty and geological formations throughout the river corridor attract thousands of visitors each year. More than 70 species of fish and 16 mussels thrive in the free-flowing waters of the Red River. The surrounding cliff lines are home to the white-haired goldenrod, a plant only found in the Red River Gorge, as well as numerous other species of wildlife. The river offers scenic views, as well as protection for numerous prehistoric and historic sites featuring unique ethnobotanic remains and other features that led to the designation of this area as a Natural Historic Landmark. Sandstone cliffs, rock shelters, natural stone arches, and boulders provide excellent views of unique geological features nestled among the mountain laurel, rhododendron, and hemlocks. ![]() The Red River flows through the Red River Gorge geological area and bisects the Clifty Wilderness.
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