KY>Red River Gorge> Jan/Feb

**dougalcorn** · 02-09-2014, 14:20

Here's my bed from Friday night:

It was after 9 when we hung the hammocks. Didn't even see the giant rock wall just off to the right.

Everything was frozen. I didn't see any mature trees down, or even any branches. I did see lots and lots of these softer pine trees "bowing down" (as Justin called it).

**ace8077** · 02-09-2014, 14:43

But you know what? I was at work while you were hanging so in my book you had the better Friday night...lol

Still looked like a good time, minus all the wipe outs.

**dougalcorn** · 02-09-2014, 14:56

Originally Posted by ace8077

But you know what? I was at work while you were hanging so in my book you had the better Friday night...lol

Still looked like a good time, minus all the wipe outs.

A little bit of Vitamin I and it's all good. I wish my original plan had worked out better, but I still had a good time. I still got another night of actual field testing my gear. Most importantly, my son and I spent the day together amazed at God's creation enjoying a unique winter wonderland!

**ace8077** · 02-09-2014, 17:13

Absolutely. My son turns 13 in March and is an active scout. I hope him and I get some trail time this year. Some true bonding time. Gonna try and kick it old school and do the primitive fire starting. Just purchased a MSR water filter so, we pretty much are set for a few overnighters here soon.

**Doctari** · 02-09-2014, 18:20

Originally Posted by ace8077

But you know what? I was at work while you were hanging so in my book you had the better Friday night...lol

Still looked like a good time, minus all the wipe outs.

Plus 1 on that, My Friday way SUCKED. I would have traded or gone with you in a heartbeat!!!

Once the bruises from the falls heal, you will laugh at them.

Tell Justin I said "HEY!"

**Broken Halo** · 02-10-2014, 08:23

Originally Posted by dougalcorn

Here's my bed from Friday night:

It was after 9 when we hung the hammocks. Didn't even see the giant rock wall just off to the right.

Everything was frozen. I didn't see any mature trees down, or even any branches. I did see lots and lots of these softer pine trees "bowing down" (as Justin called it).

Sounds like you got to spend some time w/your son and made it home safe. The Gorge could be a rough place w/ice!

I hope to make it out a few times over the next couple months.

**gnarus8429** · 02-10-2014, 09:27

I'm in once it warms up. Swift camp creek in the cliffty wilderness is my favorite place to camp. Its much easier to hang on the slopes of that valley too so it keeps you away from the tent campers.

**dougalcorn** · 02-10-2014, 16:05

Originally Posted by gnarus8429

I'm in once it warms up. Swift camp creek in the cliffty wilderness is my favorite place to camp. Its much easier to hang on the slopes of that valley too so it keeps you away from the tent campers.

I really enjoyed Swift Camp Creek last time I was there. I'd probably like to see a new thread if we're going to try and schedule another trip down to RRG.

**Boston** · 02-10-2014, 20:15

I'd be game for a meet up in the gorge. I've only done 3 backpacking trips in, and plan to do a lot more this year.

My first solo was out to the Ledford Arch area. Sadly didn't get to see them as I ran low on water after kicking my pot over the night before...twice. Trail is pretty tough getting out there, wouldn't recommend for winter.

Second was to the Indian Staircase....would not recommend for winter.

Third was to Eagle's Nest Buttress. I really want to go back and camp at the top. Plenty of places to hang. Could plan a longer hike around this destination, or just do a quick in and out. Either hike the Douglas Trail and climb, or take the back way in from Osbourne Bend, depending on conditions.