The Red River Gorge is a canyon system located along the Red River in east-central Kentucky, United States. It is geologically part of the Pottsville Escarpment and is situated within the Daniel Boone National Forest. The area encompasses approximately 29,000 acres and has been designated as the Red River Gorge Geological Area. 

It is recognized as a National Natural Landmark and a National Archaeological District, and it is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Within this geological area lies the Clifty Wilderness Area, which covers 13,379 acres. The gorge is characterized by high sandstone cliffs, rock shelters, waterfalls, and natural bridges, featuring over 100 natural sandstone arches. 

This unique landscape has made the Red River Gorge a premier destination for rock climbing, supported by the Red River Gorge Climbers' Coalition, and is commonly referred to as "the Red" by climbers. 

Adjacent to the gorge is Kentucky's Natural Bridge State Park, which includes one of the largest natural bridges in the region. Additionally, a section of the Red River in the upper gorge has been designated as a Kentucky Wild River by the Kentucky General Assembly through the Office of Kentucky Nature Preserves' Wild Rivers Program. The diverse and rugged terrain of the Red River Gorge supports a wide variety of ecological zones.