The Red River Gorge in winter
Winter is the quiet season in the Red River Gorge. The trails are emptier, the crags are mostly yours on a sunny day, and cabins are easier to book. It takes a little more planning, since some roads close and some businesses keep shorter hours.
How cold does it get?
These are NOAA's 1991 to 2020 climate normals for the Stanton weather station, the closest long-running station to the Gorge.
November: highs around 57°F, lows around 34°F
December: highs around 46°F, lows around 28°F
January: highs around 42°F, lows around 23°F, about 4 inches of snow for the month
February: highs around 47°F, lows around 26°F, about 3 inches of snow
March: highs around 56°F, lows around 33°F
Roads that close in winter
The Forest Service gates some gravel roads in the Red River Gorge Geological Area for winter to protect them. In past seasons that has included Chimney Top Road, Rock Bridge Road and parts of Indian Creek Road, typically from December into at least January. When those gates close, trailheads such as Chimney Top, Princess Arch and Rock Bridge mean a longer walk in. Powell County Tourism has covered past closures. For this season's dates, check the Daniel Boone National Forest alerts or call the Cumberland Ranger District at 606-784-6428.
What closes for the season
Natural Bridge Sky Lift: closes sometime in November, depending on weather, and stays closed December through February. It reopens on weekends in March. See the Sky Lift hours. You can still hike to Natural Bridge on the park's trails.
Red River Gorge Zipline: closed for winter. Check their site for the reopening date.
Restaurants: many keep shorter winter hours. Red River Rockhouse posts its winter hours on November 1 at redriverrockhouse.com. Call ahead before you drive out for dinner.
Hiking in winter
With the leaves down you can see much more of the cliff lines and arches from the trail. Watch for ice. Wolfe County Search and Rescue warns that freeze and thaw cycles make falling ice from cliffs more likely, so don't stand or linger under ice-covered rock, and consider a helmet near cliff bases. Hike with a partner, carry a light, and plan to finish early. December sunsets come before 5:30 PM.
Climbing in winter
Spring and fall are the prime climbing seasons, and winter is slow. Locals still climb on sunny, warmer days, usually on walls that catch the sun. Watch the forecast for a dry stretch and be flexible. The climbing guide covers waivers, parking and the main areas.
Winter events
The Red Monster trail race: November 14, 2026, starting at Natural Bridge State Resort Park, with a 50-mile option. Race page.
Geminid meteor shower: peak night December 13 to 14, 2026, with a thin moon. Viewing guide.
Winter solstice: December 21, 2026, the longest night of the year. What to look for.
First Day Hikes: Kentucky State Parks usually host guided hikes on January 1. Check with Natural Bridge State Resort Park for this year's plans.
Jupiter and Mars at opposition: February 11 and February 19, 2027. Planet guide.
Howlin' Wolfe 50K: March 27, 2027, with 25K and 50K races from Natural Bridge State Resort Park. Race page.
See every upcoming date on our events page.
Sources
Stay nearby
Stone and Sky: Gorge-View Cabin with Hot Tub, Sunset Windows and 3-Minute Climbing Access
From $250 per night