Got PTO to Use? Find Your Dates on our Adventure Calendar

Which Trip Fits You Best? Take the 2-Minute Adventure Match Quiz

2027 Adventures Are Booking! See What’s Coming Up 

Need Something Fun on Your Calendar? Browse All Adventures

Red River Gorge Backpacking Workshop

AT A GLANCE

Kentucky
10 Explorer Chicks
Backpacking
Backpacking, US-Based, Weekend, Workshop
2 Days
3 - Active
Physical demand level for this trip

Let's Do This

Starting From

$499

Book Now

You’re in Good Hands.

 

Thoughtful planning, professional leadership, and details handled with care — so you can book with confidence.

 

Non-Refundable Deposit: $100 due at booking to secure your spot

Balance due closer to departure. Payment plans available.

Questions about Red River Gorge?

Book a call with our Destination + Guest Experience Manager, Amy, or fill out the form below.

In Her Words

Danielle D.
1 week ago
I just finished the Explorer Chick trip to Scotland in July and it was fantastic. We did have true Scottish weather but that was part of the charm. Christina was our Explorer Chick guide and she was always prepared, full of information and making sure everyone was doing okay. The group of women I was with were encouraging, supportive and genuinely amazing people. The hikes we did were challenging at times but so worth it. The midges were the only thing about the trip I would change. Honestly, though, Explorer Chick made a bucket list trip for me an absolute experience I’ll never forget.
Photo from customer reviewPhoto from customer reviewPhoto from customer reviewPhoto from customer reviewPhoto from customer review
Jeanne B.
2 weeks ago
Had an amazing and challenging trip hiking in Scotland with Explorer Chicks. Great trip. Guides were outstanding and very helpful.
Jaimie H.
2 weeks ago
If you are considering taking a trip with Explorer Chick, DO IT! I just returned from 8 days in Scotland and it was the most amazing trip. My trip was full of amazing women, hikes with local guides who taught us about native plants and animals, great food and lots of laughs. Christina Bruno was our guide and she was amazing. She made sure everyone felt welcome and comfortable and she was so fun! I look forward to booking another trip with Christina in the future!
Photo from customer reviewPhoto from customer reviewPhoto from customer reviewPhoto from customer reviewPhoto from customer review
Crystal S.
3 weeks ago
Just returned from hiking in Slovenia with an amazing group of Explorer Chicks. This was my second trip with this company and certainly not my last. Our guide, Mary deftly looked after everything from geology lessons and gear advice to snack distribution and sometimes even sherpa duties. Our group had lots of laughs as we got to know each other, and i could not have asked for a better group of ladies to do it all with. It was challenging in all the ways i wanted it to be. Slovenia is a wonderful country with SO many things to explore (and remains slightly under the radar of most tourists, which makes it even better). Wishing i could go back and do it all again! No regrets!
Photo from customer review
J H.
3 weeks ago
When my best friend had asked me to do this trip with her. I was very hesitant. But decided I would jump in. And now that the trip is done, I have to say that it was worth every penny and all across the board it was a fantastic experience!! Our guides, Amy and Lauren were amazing and incredibly knowledgeable! The timing of our trip brought in some bad weather, but they had already figured out new route for us before we as guests even knew what was going on weather wise.. they figured out another hike that was Challenging and also gave us beautiful views! They didn’t want us to miss the views of the Smoky Mountains And then there were the delicious lunches and dinners they made for us. It was definitely exceptional. The time with a bunch of 14 women that I did not know except for my one friend, was at first very incredibly intimidating, but ultimately it was so Fun, energetic and incredibly welcoming. (this is coming from this pretty introverted person) . I loved all of it! Can’t wait to return and do another trip with Explorer chick
Photo from customer reviewPhoto from customer review
Marissa K.
3 weeks ago
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I honestly don’t even know if I have the right words to fully explain what my trip to Italy with Explorer Chick meant to me. This was so much more than a trip or a vacation. It was an experience that truly changed me and left an impact on my heart that I know I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have traveled to Italy and experience so many things I never thought I would. From wandering through the beautiful streets and canals of Venice, trying unforgettable food (seriously… #CleanPlateClub 😂🍝), immersing myself in a completely different culture, and seeing places that I had only ever dreamed about, there were so many moments where I had to stop and think, “Is this really my life?” I will forever cherish those moments. The hikes and activities challenged me in ways I didn’t expect, but that’s what made them so rewarding. There were definitely moments when I had to push myself, but I never felt like I was doing it alone. Being surrounded by a group of incredible women who supported one another, encouraged each other, and pushed each other to become stronger and better was something truly special. We celebrated each other’s victories, helped each other through the hard moments, and reminded one another that we were capable of more than we thought. There is something incredibly powerful about being surrounded by women who genuinely want to see you succeed. One of the most special parts of this experience was having Katie as my guide. She was absolutely incredible and made the entire trip feel even more special. What made our connection even more meaningful was discovering that we are both from West Virginia area and share that Appalachian background. There is something so special about meeting someone who understands a part of where you come from, especially when you’re halfway around the world. Finding that little piece of home in Italy was something I never expected, and I will always be grateful for the bond we formed. This trip changed my perspective on life in ways I didn’t expect. It reminded me that there is a whole world out there waiting to be explored and that I shouldn’t be afraid to step outside of what is comfortable and familiar. I came home realizing that life is too short to keep waiting for “someday.” There is so much beauty, culture, adventure, and connection waiting for us if we are willing to take the chance and go find it. I left Italy with more than just pictures and souvenirs. I came home with a heart full of memories, a deeper appreciation for the world, a new sense of courage and curiosity, and friendships and connections that I will always treasure. This experience made me want to see more, learn more, challenge myself more, and experience as much of this beautiful world as I possibly can. I will forever be thankful to Explorer Chick for giving me an experience that I will never forget, and especially to Katie for being such an amazing guide and for making this adventure even more meaningful. I truly believe some experiences come into our lives at exactly the right time, and this trip was one of those experiences for me. Italy will always have a special place in my heart. 🇮🇹❤️ And I have a feeling this is only the beginning of my journey to see more of this incredible world. 🌎✈️ #CleanPlateClub 🍝😂
Photo from customer reviewPhoto from customer reviewPhoto from customer reviewPhoto from customer reviewPhoto from customer reviewPhoto from customer reviewPhoto from customer review
Stephanie T.
4 weeks ago
If you enjoy hiking, the Slovenia Hiking Trip is for you!! I just returned from this trip with Mary as our guide. The trip is a combination of challenging hiking (with a few bonus hikes that you can participate in or opt out), relaxing sunrise paddling boarding, and fun rafting and biking. Throw in some delicious meals and a few geology and history lessons, an awesome Slovenian guide (Aljaz) and it culminates in a spectacular 8 days. Slovenia is absolutely gorgeous with the friendliest people. This was my second EC trip and I had Mary as my EC guide both times. She rocks (inside joke, as she is a geologist)!! I’m a mountain girl at heart but I would go on any trip EC offers, if I knew Mary was guiding. She was always upbeat and encouraging, her communication with the entire group was excellent, and I always felt safe. Great experience!!
Leanne R.
1 month ago
Things I learned (or remembered) on my Explorer Chick Shenandoah adventure: 💚 I can do hard things, especially in a supportive and encouraging environment. 🌿 Nature is healing, and physical activity can help me process deep and complex emotions. 🎒 I tend to carry more than I need to. ✨ Sometimes when things don’t go as planned, they turn out even better than I could have imagined. 🍷 I want to still be dancing to live music at wineries in my 70s and beyond. 💪 I should trust my body more. I am much stronger than I think I am. I am so grateful to our amazing guides, Christina and Kaylin, for all of their guidance, support, and encouragement - plus all of the fun surprises and treats throughout the trip!
Photo from customer reviewPhoto from customer reviewPhoto from customer review
Jody L.
1 month ago
Quite possibly the best 8 days of my life! Our guides, Savannah and Nicole took care of everything--transportation, meals, lodging, itinerary, permits, celebrations. Utah was beautiful; my explorer chick companions were capable and enthusiastic, and the memories I will carry with me forever. Book a trip, and get ready to hike with your (new) forever friends.
Eileen M.
1 month ago
All I can say is that if you are thinking about taking a trip with Explorer Chick, JUST DO IT!!!! I just went on my first adventure, to Croatia, and the trip far exceeded my expectations! Food, lodging, experiences, camaraderie...all top notch! You will not be disappointed! I have already signed up for 2 more trips, that's how much I loved it!

Book with Confidence

Your wanderlust doesn’t have to wait. Our payment plans make booking your dream trip easier than ever. The best part? Zero additional fees.

Payment Plans
We want nothing more than for you join us. However, we understand emergencies do occur that may cause you to cancel your reservation.
Cancellation Policy
To protect your travel investment and your hide, we recommend purchasing travel insurance. Receive a no-hassle, online quote with our trusted insurance partner.
Trip Insurance

Endless Wanderlust

Yosemite Half Dome Backpacking
Yosemite Half Dome Backpacking

4 DAYS, CALIFORNIA

Backpacking, Bucket List, Hiking, National Park, US-Based, Weekend
Backpacking
Great Smoky Mountains Hiking & Rafting Weekend
Great Smoky Mountains Hiking & Rafting Weekend

4 DAYS, TENNESSEE

Hiking, National Park, Smoky Mountains, Weekend, White Water Rafting
Locally Unique
Las Vegas Climbing and Overnight Kayak Weekend Adventure
Las Vegas Climbing and Overnight Kayak Weekend Adventure

4 DAYS, NEVADA

Camping, Climbing, Multisport, Paddling, Water Sports
Hotel, Camping
Moab and Arches National Parks Hiking Weekend
Moab and Arches National Parks Hiking Weekend

4 DAYS, UTAH

Hiking, National Park, US-Based, Weekend
Shared House
Private: REDIRECTED: Patagonia W Trek Hut to Hut
Private: REDIRECTED: Patagonia W Trek Hut to Hut

7 DAYS, CHILE

Backpacking, Bucket List, Hiking, Multiday Treks, Trekking
Hotel, Mountain Huts
Utah Ultimate National Parks Hiking Road Trip
Utah Ultimate National Parks Hiking Road Trip

8 DAYS, UTAH

Hiking, National Park, US-Based
Shared House, Glamping
Yellowstone Hiking and Wildlife with Grand Teton
Yellowstone Hiking and Wildlife with Grand Teton

7 DAYS, WYOMING

Bucket List, Cycling, Hiking, Hot Springs, Multisport, National Park, US-Based, Wildlife
Hotel