Red River Gorge Backpacking Workshop

AT A GLANCE

Kentucky

10 Explorer Chicks

Backpacking

Backpacking, US-Based, Weekend, Workshop

2 Days

3 - Active

Overview

Get ready to go from “never slept outside” to “queen of the backcountry” in just TWO days. This women-only beginner backpacking workshop in Kentucky’s Red River Gorge is a hands-on, fully immersive experience in the great outdoors— gear included!

Trip Highlights

Hike through the natural sandstone bridges, arches, and forest trails of Red River Gorge
Learn essentials like how to pack, carry, and hike with a full backpacking pack
Master essential backcountry skills: filtering water, setting up camp, cooking outdoors, hanging a bear bag—even pooping in the woods
Gain confidence and ask all the questions in a zero-judgment zone led by expert female guides
Camp in the heart of Eastern Kentucky’s most beautiful wilderness

The Vibe:

Supportive, hands-on, and zero-pressure. You’ll learn all the real backpacking things with expert guidance and a group of women who’ve got your back.

That means when you inevitably mess up, no need to feel embarrassed. When you question if you’re doing something correctly, your guide can help you. Let’s learn together in the outdoors, so when it’s time for your big adventure you’ll already have legit, backcountry experience.

Photos

Itinerary

Expand All Days

Day 1 - Learn How to Pack, Cook, Set Up Camp, Filter Water and More

Rise early Explorer Chick! You are learning how to backpack this weekend. You’ll meet up with your Explorer Chick Guide at the trailhead first thing in the morning. She’ll be the one surrounded with enough gear and food to mobilize a small army. To kick off the workshop, she’ll walk everyone through a Duffle Shuffle where gear is passed out and you pack up together learning how to properly pack your pack.

Once everyone is loaded up and packs have been adjusted, you’ll hit the trails in the Red River Gorge. Throughout the day, your Explorer Chick guide will pause for instruction including how to filter water, safety, Leave No Trace, and basic safety. You’re encourage to ask all the questions especially the weird ones. And, yes, we will teach you the trick for squatting in the woods without peeing on your shoes.

By early evening you’ll roll into camp happy to heave off your backpack. Your guide will help everyone set up tent before prepping dinner. It’ll be hands on for dinner so you can try your hand at lighting the camp stove. After chowing down, your guide will also share how to properly dispose of food waste and how to clean dishes in the back country.

We’ll shimmy out to our favorite spot to catch the sunset or watch the stars. And fire bans permitting, we’ll kick around a campfire.

Distance: 5.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,200’

Accommodation: Backpacking Tent – Shared 2 per
Meals: L-D

Day 2 - Camp Coffee and a Day Hike

Rise and shine, Explorer Chick! You freaking did it – backcountry camped with nothing but the stuff on your back. But first the most important lesson in all of backpacking – your Explorer Chick Guide will get you good and caffeinated with some hot coffee. Then she’ll recruit some help to pull together a yummy breakfast. She’ll walk you through how to break camp and you’ll try your hand again at packing up all your gear.

We will hike back to the trailhead where you will return the gear to your guide. Then it’s a caravan to a new trailhead for a short bonus day hike. We’ll close out our backpacking workshop with an included hot lunch at one of our favorite local food joints.

Backpacking: 4.3 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,000′

Day Hike: 1 mile
Elevation Gain: 200′

Meals: B-L

Logistics

What to Pack

Check out our recommended hiking gear for all trips.
You’ll receive a complete packing list in your Travel Guide upon booking; note that trips may require additional specialized items.

Arrival

Airport City: Lexington, KY (LEX). Approximately 1 hour drive to the Red.
Pick Up Location: Trailhead Parking Lot
Meeting Time: 8am on Day 1

Departure

Airport City: Lexington, KY (LEX). Approximately 1 hour drive to the Red.
Depart Location: Self drive to day hike and lunch on Day 2
Return Time: Plan to depart by 3pm on Day 2

Optional Add-Ons: Limited Single Upgrade Tents are available at booking.

You will receive a Travel Guide with all the trailhead, packing, and additional information you’ll need to prepare for your epic trip.

We require a minimum of 5 Explorer Chicks for this trip. Please confirm your trip is guaranteed before booking airfare.

Activity Level

Rated 3 – ACTIVE

This trip is rated as Active because it is backpacking with approximately 25-30lbs on your back. Backpacking differs greatly from casual day hiking and trail running in local parks. What makes the Red River Gorge absolutely breathtaking also makes its trails steep and strenuous at times. It is a gorge after all! You will be hiking some steep sections with a backpack.

There are several creek crossings during your route. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are required for stability and to keep your feet dry.

We want all Explorer Chicks to enjoy their backpacking experience, which is why we find it crucial to set realistic expectations for this workshop.

Expect to carry approximately 25 pounds on your back. You will be responsible for carrying your own pack, assigned gear, and necessities.

When planning the route, we take into consideration the variety of skills and abilities of the women joining us on the adventure while stopping often for instruction and allowing ample time to reach camp. For these reasons, the mileage is short, but your day will be full.

Keep in mind we will hike together as a group. The pace of the trip will vary based on the group’s overall abilities. (ie. Some may find the trail/pace too slow while others find it challenging. Always support your Explorer Chick sisters!)

Daily Backpacking:

Day 1: 5.5 miles. 1,200′ gain
Day 2: 4.3 miles. 1’000 gain
Day 2 Day Hike: 1 mile. 200′ gain.

Please consider the physical demands carefully as it is for the safety and enjoyment of the group. All Explorer Chicks will be required to sign an Acknowledgement of Physical Demands as part of their waiver upon booking.

What's Included

Essential Gear

Shared 2 person tent
Backpack
Sleeping Bag
Sleeping Pad
Trekking poles
Shared water filter, cookware, stove
Digital Explorer Chick Backpacking Book
Limited Single Tent Upgrades (4 available)

Meals

All meals as indicated in itinerary: B-1, L-2, D-1
Gratuities for included meals

Practical

Commercial permits and 1-Day Pass fees for Daniel Boone National Forest
Professional leadership team with 1 Explorer Chick Guide
A detailed Travel Guide with everything you need to know for your trip
The freedom to enjoy your vacation and mindlessly wander!

Not Included

Airfare
Airport Transportation
Alcoholic beverages
Travel Insurance (Learn about our preferred insurance provider)
Meals exclusive of itineraries
Costs for additional activities
Gratuity for your Explorer Chick Guide (read our tipping guidelines here)

Explorer Chick reserves the option to modify trip itineraries at the discretion of your tour director as necessary due to weather, conditions, illness, injury, group dynamics, or other unforeseen incidents.

More from the Red

Did you know we have a beginner backpacking trip? 🤩

Well, these 8 women just hiked nearly 2,000 feet of elevation gain through the heart of Red River Gorge!

Spring thundershowers rolled through on the trail, and our women kept moving, getting stronger with every mile. Along the way, they spotted eastern eyed click beetles, a black widow, a gray rat snake, a copperhead, an American toad, and a yellow-billed cuckoo, because Red River Gorge doesn’t hold back, and neither do they.

Happy hour at camp looked like trailside charcuterie and mimosas (yes, really), followed by dinner and falling asleep to the sound of whippoorwills calling in the dark.

The next morning, they packed up, hiked out, and toasted with ice-cold local sodas, accomplished, exhilarated, and completely hooked on backpacking. Then, they proceeded to absolutely destroy burgers at a local farm-to-table restaurant on the way home. No notes.🍔

Somewhere between the storms, the sore legs, and the shared snacks, they discovered they’re capable of far more than they thought, and turned a group of strangers into lifelong trail friends.

Where was your first backpacking trip? We’d love to hear all about it below! ⤵️

#explorerchickred #redriver #backpackingforbeginners #backpacking #grouptravel

50 3

Open

Did you know we have a beginner backpacking trip? 🤩

Well, these 8 women just hiked nearly 2,000 feet of elevation gain through the heart of Red River Gorge!

Spring thundershowers rolled through on the trail, and our women kept moving, getting stronger with every mile. Along the way, they spotted eastern eyed click beetles, a black widow, a gray rat snake, a copperhead, an American toad, and a yellow-billed cuckoo, because Red River Gorge doesn’t hold back, and neither do they.

Happy hour at camp looked like trailside charcuterie and mimosas (yes, really), followed by dinner and falling asleep to the sound of whippoorwills calling in the dark.

The next morning, they packed up, hiked out, and toasted with ice-cold local sodas, accomplished, exhilarated, and completely hooked on backpacking. Then, they proceeded to absolutely destroy burgers at a local farm-to-table restaurant on the way home. No notes.🍔

Somewhere between the storms, the sore legs, and the shared snacks, they discovered they’re capable of far more than they thought, and turned a group of strangers into lifelong trail friends.

Where was your first backpacking trip? We’d love to hear all about it below! ⤵️

#explorerchickred #redriver #backpackingforbeginners #backpacking #grouptravel

50 3

Our latest beginner backpacking trip to Red River Gorge was an absolute blast! 💥

Six Explorer Chicks set out for an adventure, and it definitely delivered. We tackled a rough 6-mile trail, which felt like a marathon at times, especially with all our gear. The 8 creek crossings were a refreshing (and sometimes chilly!) challenge, adding a fun element of “will we stay dry?” to the journey.

We learned some essential outdoor skills, mastering the art of cooking delicious backcountry meals and, perhaps more importantly, treating our own water so we wouldn’t have to haul it all.

After a day of hiking and learning, falling asleep to the gentle pitter-patter of rain on our tents and the mesmerizing song of whippoorwills was pure magic. And the views? Oh, the views! We were treated to breathtaking 360-degree panoramas that made every uphill climb worth it.

To celebrate our triumph, we devoured some famous Miguel’s pizza and enjoyed a well-deserved beer. It was the perfect end to an unforgettable trip filled with laughter, challenges, and incredible memories 🍕

If you’re ready to join us and give backpacking a try, comment “RED” below and I’ll send you over our next dates!

#explorerchickred #redrivergorge #womensbackpackingtrips #womenwhoadventure #backpacking #hikingadventures #womenwhohike #grouptravel #beginnerbackpacker

78 7

Open

Our latest beginner backpacking trip to Red River Gorge was an absolute blast! 💥

Six Explorer Chicks set out for an adventure, and it definitely delivered. We tackled a rough 6-mile trail, which felt like a marathon at times, especially with all our gear. The 8 creek crossings were a refreshing (and sometimes chilly!) challenge, adding a fun element of “will we stay dry?” to the journey.

We learned some essential outdoor skills, mastering the art of cooking delicious backcountry meals and, perhaps more importantly, treating our own water so we wouldn’t have to haul it all.

After a day of hiking and learning, falling asleep to the gentle pitter-patter of rain on our tents and the mesmerizing song of whippoorwills was pure magic. And the views? Oh, the views! We were treated to breathtaking 360-degree panoramas that made every uphill climb worth it.

To celebrate our triumph, we devoured some famous Miguel’s pizza and enjoyed a well-deserved beer. It was the perfect end to an unforgettable trip filled with laughter, challenges, and incredible memories 🍕

If you’re ready to join us and give backpacking a try, comment “RED” below and I’ll send you over our next dates!

#explorerchickred #redrivergorge #womensbackpackingtrips #womenwhoadventure #backpacking #hikingadventures #womenwhohike #grouptravel #beginnerbackpacker

78 7

Six adventurous women hit the trail this weekend in Red River Gorge and conquered 10 miles of rugged Appalachian beauty with nothing but backpacks, grit, and a whole lot of snacks 🥾🌟

Under a canopy of stars and to the sweet nighttime serenade of whippoorwills, we camped like queens—complete with a makeshift spa night by the fire (face masks + headlamps = iconic).

We powered through steep climbs, shared trail mix and inside jokes, and held each other up when the trail got tough—literally and emotionally. There were moments of struggle, sure, but even more of uncontrollable laughter that left our abs sore (who needs core workouts anyway?).

We woke early to watch the sun rise over the rolling hills, feeling small and infinite all at once. And to wrap it all up? A victory feast of Miguel’s legendary pizza, cold local beer, and a toast to friendship, resilience, and really strong hiker booties.

We came, we hiked, we spa’d, we laughed—and we’ll 100% be doing it again. If you want to join us, comment “RED” and I’ll send you over the link 💕

#explorerchickred #redrivergorge #redriver #hikekentucky #womenwhohike #hikinggoup #travelgroupforwomen #womenstravel

73 6

Open

Six adventurous women hit the trail this weekend in Red River Gorge and conquered 10 miles of rugged Appalachian beauty with nothing but backpacks, grit, and a whole lot of snacks 🥾🌟

Under a canopy of stars and to the sweet nighttime serenade of whippoorwills, we camped like queens—complete with a makeshift spa night by the fire (face masks + headlamps = iconic).

We powered through steep climbs, shared trail mix and inside jokes, and held each other up when the trail got tough—literally and emotionally. There were moments of struggle, sure, but even more of uncontrollable laughter that left our abs sore (who needs core workouts anyway?).

We woke early to watch the sun rise over the rolling hills, feeling small and infinite all at once. And to wrap it all up? A victory feast of Miguel’s legendary pizza, cold local beer, and a toast to friendship, resilience, and really strong hiker booties.

We came, we hiked, we spa’d, we laughed—and we’ll 100% be doing it again. If you want to join us, comment “RED” and I’ll send you over the link 💕

#explorerchickred #redrivergorge #redriver #hikekentucky #womenwhohike #hikinggoup #travelgroupforwomen #womenstravel

73 6

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In Her Words

mokshitha C.

2 days ago

My Utah trip was an absolutely unforgettable experience! The breathtaking landscapes, stunning rock formations, and incredible hikes made this trip truly special. As someone experiencing a trip like this for the first time, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. A huge shoutout to our amazing guides, Kaylin and Laura, who made the entire journey so memorable! ❤️ They were incredibly supportive, knowledgeable, caring, and always ready to help. Their enthusiasm and passion made every hike more enjoyable, and their attention to everyone’s needs made us feel comfortable and well taken care of throughout the trip. Every hike offered something unique, and the views were beyond words. What made this trip even more special was the wonderful group of people, the laughter, the shared experiences, and the memories we created along the way. I came back with not just beautiful pictures but also unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a heart full of gratitude. Thank you, Kaylin and Laura, for going above and beyond and making this trip so incredible! You both played such a big part in making my first trip of this kind an experience I will always cherish. I would absolutely recommend this trip to anyone looking for adventure, breathtaking scenery, and an amazing overall experience!

nikki R.

4 days ago

MY FIRST TRIP EVER WITH EXPLORER CHICKS!!! I don’t know where to begin! The Utah 8 day 5 Park trip was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. From meeting with our guides Laura & Kaylin in the morning of Day 1 right up until they dropped me off at the airport on Day 8 these 2 incredible women took care of me ! From the food , driving, lodging, hikes and everything in between these women are the absolute best! I couldn’t have completed Arches without them getting me through the fins and supporting me every step of the way! They got me through Little Wildhorse Canyon with ease. These women deserve an award for their courage, dedication and determination to help us all push past any challenges that might have come up. I loved every minute of this trip! I will be going on another trip with Explorer Chick as soon as I can find some time off in my schedule! If you are looking for something where you are safe, taken care of and an adventure check out Explorer Chick ! Explorer Chick Adventure Co. I think we all had the time of our lives! At the end of the day, it’s not the mountains we climbed that matter most, but the people who helped us reach the top. Laura, Kaylin & all the women on the trip are those people for me. Much gratitude 🙏 Nikki Rineholt

K R.

5 days ago

I did the Red River Gorge backpacking trip and had the best time. Our guide, Kathryn, truly knew her stuff and was well prepared, so I felt totally safe. It poured rain the entire time and I still had a blast! Learned a ton too. I highly recommend this trip!

Dara D.

1 week ago

My 4-day Zion and Bryce Canyon trip with Explorer Chick was over-the-top amazing. Each day brought a new adventure, made even better by our fabulous guides, Mary and Brooke. They were awesome! Fun, encouraging, and super invested in making sure we all had a great experience. (I mean, who carries a watermelon and cutting board on a trail climbing 1,100 feet in two miles just to surprise us with a special lunch treat?!?) I signed up for the promise of fun, adventure, and a sense of empowerment, and this trip delivered on all three. An unexpected bonus was getting to know 11 other incredible women spanning nearly 40 years in age. We started out as strangers, but four days of laughter, encouragement, and cheering each other on turned into a joyous celebration of sisterhood. It was such a cool reminder that friendship and adventure have no age limit. This was my second trip with Explorer Chick and I'm already dreaming of where I want to go next. I’d absolutely recommend this company to anyone looking for a fun adventure with a great group of women. Both my experiences have been exceptional.

Amy F.

2 weeks ago

Two Explorer Chick trips completed! Two of the best trips of my life. South Africa and Hiking the Dolomites! Explorer Chicks takes care of all the details, and any adjustments needed along the way! Tour guides-Christina and Kristy bring the energy! If you want a trip of women who support women, with adventure and style-sign up with THIS GROUP! 10/10!!

Allison M.

3 weeks ago

Had a great trip to Moab (Arches and Cayonland NPS) with Explorer Chicks. Led by Kirstie and Jeannie, we had a great 4 days of hiking. A group of 7 women was perfect for this trip. Everything was taken care of while on the trip (food, snacks, room, driving). Jeannie was an excellent chef for the group. So many delicious meals after the long days. They knew the best places to go, the trail routes, and were able to accommodate all abilities in the group.

Elizabeth F.

4 weeks ago

I went to Moab in Sept 2026 and it was my first experience with Explorer Chicks and WOW I WAS BLOWN AWAY! My friend and I went to celebrate her birthday + the fact that she just beat cancer and her and I came home filled with the most joyful tears and how a group of total strangers could make us, and her feel SO special and loved. Kirstie went SO COMPLETELY above and beyond for absolutely every little detail. She made accommodations for EVERYONE and somehow still tailored the trip to us as individuals even though we were a group of almost 10. The food was incredible too, I was not expecting all the snacks and amazing home cooked meals. Ashley was also so incredibly sweet and helpful and encouraging. I was absolutely terrified to rappel but they both made me feel so safe and confident and I’m so proud of myself for doing it and it’s honestly one of the coolest things I’ve ever done. I just got home today but have already bragged about my experience on IG and to everyone I’ve talked to so far. I will absolutely be sending more women y'all's way. This company was incredible, but Kirstie and Ashley really made the trip a dream come true for us ❤️ brb going to go book my next trip with them!

Melissa B.

4 weeks ago

A week in Croatia was just enough to give us a taste of how awesome the country is! Had a blast with e-biking, truffle hunting, meandering through tiny medieval villages, drinking wine, laughing, bonding, hiking, swimming, boating, pasta making... seriously the list goes on and on. So many amazing experiences that aren't on the usual trip list! It was my first group tour and I was nervous, for sure. I loved that I could just relax and go with the day, knowing I didn't have to handle logistics or worry about the weather messing up our plans - which is usually my responsibility as the family trip planner. Majda was our lovely, local guide and she did a great job wrangling us all! 🙂 Laura ROCKED as our EC guide; 100% will take another trip with her!! She's a fabulous mix of fun, quirky, crazy, calming and empathetic, with this enormous heart that just wrapped us all up and made the trip exceptional. As with every trip I've ever taken, it's the people that make the difference. And this group had some of the bestest!! 🙂 Best 50th birthday celebration ever!!

Trinity O.

4 weeks ago

This was one of my favorite women’s trips to date. Erin and Hannah were thoughtful, prepared, and always a step ahead, which made everything feel easy. The accommodations were comfortable, the itinerary balanced real downtime with unforgettable views, and the pacing never felt rushed. I came home recharged and grateful. I'd absolutely travel with this team again

Tracy B.

4 weeks ago

I have been on several trips with EC, the most recent being to South Africa with Christina. The trip was amazing! Christina is an expert at making the trip feel seamless. She handled all the details and went above and beyond to ensure everyone had a great experience. Navigating physical limitations, injuries, dietary restrictions, uncooperative weather, and the occasional cranky lady, Christina took great care of us all!

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