Kayaking is such a fun activity. But cave kayaking is really cool. Literally!
During our time in the Red River Gorge, we made sure to check out this unique experience at the Gorge Underground. It was really interesting to learn about the abandoned mine and explore the five miles of tunnels.
The nice thing about the Gorge Underground is that they offer a few different ways to explore the abandoned mine. The most popular is the classic cave kayaking, where you can boat around with several other kayakers. They also have kayaks that are clear and light up with different colors so you can clearly see in the water. And for those who’d rather sit back and relax, you can take a guided boat tour.
If this sounds like an activity you want to do during your visit to the Red River Gorge, the guide below shares everything you need to know. We think this unique activity is worth doing. So, let’s jump in! (But not really, because that water is cold!)
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Underground Kayaking in Kentucky
The best place to go cave kayaking in Kentucky is the Gorge Underground in Red River Gorge. This abandoned mine is filled with 5 miles of tunnels filled with water, making it the perfect place to go kayaking, SUPing, or even taking a boat tour.
As one of the best things to do in Red River Gorge, you’ll want to plan a few hours out of your day to explore the mine with a guide, whether on a kayak or a group boat tour. It’s a fun, family-friendly activity and is a unique experience you can’t get anywhere else.
Location of the Gorge Underground Boat and Kayak Tours
Gorge Underground is in the Red River Gorge area of Kentucky. It’s not far from Natural Bridge State Resort Park and the many fun things to do there.
Some of the cave kayaking tours are run by SUP Kentucky. They are also at the same mine, but you’ll drive to another area in the parking lot. Follow the signs.
History of the Mine Cave in Red River Gorge
The Gorge Underground was originally a limestone mine that was first dug out in the 1890s. It was abandoned in the mid-1980s when a miner hit an underground aquifer. You can still see where the water flows into the mine today.
The abandoned mine sat for about 30 years until it opened as a tourist location. Lights were placed throughout the cave so guides could navigate the tunnels. Otherwise, it would be pitch black inside!
The water in Gorge Underground is about 25-30 feet deep at its deepest points. It can be shallow in areas, so you’ll want to follow your guide and avoid those spots.
Who Can Go Cave Kayaking in Red River Gorge?
As with many boat and kayak tours, there are both age and weight restrictions for safety.
Age minimums:
- Children must be a minimum of 5 years old to participate in cave kayaking.
- Children 5-8 years old cannot paddle their own boat and must sit with an adult in a tandem boat.
- Children over 9 can paddle their own kayaks
- Children must be a minimum of 3 years old to go on the Classic Boat Tour
Weight Limits:
- Classic kayaks require a max weight of 300 lbs in a single kayak and 475 lbs in a double/tandem kayak
- Crystal kayaks require a max of 275 lbs in a single kayak and 400 lbs in a tandem/double kayak
Kayak Cave Tour & Boat Tour Options
At the Gorge Underground in Kentucky, you have a few options for your kayak tour.
Classic Kayak Tour
The most affordable and shortest kayak tour at Gorge Underground is the Classic Kayak Tour. This one-hour guided tour will take you through the abandoned mine as your guide points out features like fossils, the aquifer, and abandoned equipment. There is a max of 12 people per group.
Crystal Kayak or SUP Tour
The Crystal Kayak and SUP tours are very popular due to the colorful lights and clear bottoms. The tour is guided and lasts 1.5 hours. The kayaks and SUPs are lit by LEDs, giving you the opportunity to see into the waters beneath you. There is a max of 8 people per group.
Classic Boat Tour
This is the best option for those who want to see the mine but don’t want to kayak. It’s also perfect if you are visiting with a young child, as children 3 and up are allowed on the boat tour.
The Classic Boat Tour is a guided, hour-long tour that explains the history of the mine and shows off some of the unique things to see inside.
Best Clothing and Gear For a Cave Kayak and Boat Tour
Clothing You Should Wear While Kayaking in a Cave
The cave is 52° year-round, and with no sun, can feel very cold. The water temp is around 40°, so you’ll want to dress warmly and in clothing that you won’t mind getting wet (due to the occasional cave kiss).
We recommend the following for your cave kayaking tour:
- Long, warm pants
- Long-sleeved shirt and a zip-up hoody or jacket
- Extra socks (No shoes are allowed on crystal kayaks) or these neoprene socks are a good option.
- Shoes for the classic kayak tour
- Gloves (winter kayaking gloves are a good option)
For your cave kayaking tour, you will be provided with the following for safety:
- Helmet
- Headlamp
- Personal Flotation Device
- Children under 12 will receive a life vest
Clothing You Should Wear For the Underground Boat Tour
Because the cave is 52° year-round, no matter what the weather is outside, you’ll want to dress warmly inside. Long pants, socks, shoes (your toes will get cold in sandals), and a sweatshirt are all recommended.
For your boat tour, you will be provided with the following for safety:
- Helmet
- Personal Flotation Device / Cushion
- Children under 12 will receive a life vest
What To Expect When Cave Kayaking in Red River Gorge
Mine Conditions
Inside the cave, the tunnels are 60 feet in width and about 30 feet in height. The waters are always calm since there is no wind or waves inside. It is also 52° year-round, and the water temperature is around 40°.
Arrival
They recommend arriving 15- 30 minutes before your scheduled tour time. This will allow the guides to provide you with the equipment you’ll need and go over any safety information.
If you are taking the Classic Kayak Tour, you’ll enter through the Gorge Underground Gift Shop.
The Crystal Kayak Tours start at a different location, towards the back of the parking lot. You will have to walk a short distance with your guide to the water.
On the Kayak Cave Tour
Your guide will take you through the abandoned mine and point out interesting features like abandoned equipment and fossils. You should also see the many trout swimming through the waters and an occasional bat.
What To Expect On a Boat Tour at Gorge Underground
If you opt for a boat tour through the cave versus a kayak tour, your experience will be similar to the Class Kayak Tour.
Arrival
As with the kayak tours, you want to arrive about 15-30 minutes before the start of your tour. After checking in, take the time to look around the gift shop and pick up a souvenir.
We waited out back on the small covered porch. There, you can feel the cool air from the mine. Many guests waiting with us bought sweatshirts to make sure they were warm while on the tour.
On the Boat Tour
Your guide will take you through a large area of the mine while explaining its history and answering any questions you might have. You’ll see the water streaming in from the aquifer that flooded the mine, as well as rainbow trout and old mine artifacts.
Other Things to Do in Red River Gorge
There are so many fun things to do in Red River Gorge, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities. We loved all of the hiking available nearby. And there is also kayaking and boating on the river and lakes close by.
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