The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics, a nonprofit organization based in Boulder, Colorado, has named the gorge as its first "Hot Spot."
The selection means that trainers from the center will attend some events in the gorge to talk to people about "Leave No Trace" camping and recreation, and will promote the concept though social media and contacts with universities, clubs and others who use the area.
Located in central Kentucky, the Red River Gorge offers hiking, camping, rock-climbing, canoeing and other activities that draw people from around the world. The gorge is best known for its sandstone cliffs and the more than 100 natural arches within its borders, which is the greatest concentration of arches east of the Rocky Mountains.The Leave No Trace Center noted that all that recreation has resulted in "litter, trail erosion, damage to vegetation, and vandalism of property, natural features, and cultural/heritage sites."
Having spent a lot of time in Red River Gorge during my late teen years, I can personally attest to the abuse heaped upon this beautiful and unique area.
Jeff
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