Red River Gorge, off-road vehicle trail in Daniel Boone Forest to reopen earlier
The Red River Gorge and off-road vehicle trail system in the Daniel Boone National Forest will open earlier than expected.
The Red River Gorge and Redbird Crest Off-Highway Vehicle Trail System will open to visitors on Friday ahead of Memorial Day, instead of June 3, according to a U.S. Forest Service news release.
“In light of the governor’s decision to lift the travel ban on May 22, we felt we could move up the reopening of the Red River Gorge and Redbird Crest OHV Trail to the same date, while still emphasizing safety,” Daniel Boone National Forest Supervisor Dan Olsen said.
Most picnic areas and shooting ranges, as well as the White Sulphur Off Highway Vehicle Trail System, are tentatively scheduled to reopen June 3. Most developed campgrounds are set to reopen on June 11.
Forest officials cautioned that the dates could change, depending on circumstances. Visitors should visit the Daniel Boone National Forest’s website for more specific information.
According to a previous news release, “most boat launches, trails and the general forest area have remained open” for people who wish to hike, boat, bike and the like.
Officials are continuing to monitor the situation surrounding the novel coronavirus and are reopening using a “site-by-site approach, including assessment of facility cleanliness, maintenance status, and health and safety of recreation areas,” according to the release.
Daniel Boone National Forest Supervisor Dan Olsen said they are “approaching re-opening with safety in mind.”
“We encourage you to go outside and enjoy the fresh air, but take extra steps to do this safely,” Olsen said in the news release. “Be extra cautious and avoid high-risk activities that might require health care or rescue.”
Gov. Andy Beshear announced Friday that the Kentucky State Parks system will reopen most parks, including Natural Bridge and Cumberland Falls resort parks, June 1.
State parks campgrounds are also scheduled to reopen June 11, though the parks website says bathrooms and bathhouses at the campgrounds will be closed.
This story was originally published May 15, 2020 at 7:57 PM.
