Janey Mitges climbng at Torrent Falls in the late ...
Description
Apart from some limited exceptions, Torrent Falls is closed to the general public. This great crag is a stark example of how thoughtless climbers can endanger access.
For years, climbing was allowed at this privately-owned crag in the Natural Bridge region. Hard sport routes like Bare Metal Teen and Steelworker attracted climbers wanting to sample some of the best of the Red.
Unfortunately, Torrent also attracted too many people with no consideration of the property owner's wishes. After one too many instances of dealing with climbers' dogs (which were not allowed) and people peeing outdoors in full view of his guests, the owner had had enough and shut down the crag to climbing.
Currently, it is possible to climb at Torrent only if you're a paying guest at the Torrent Falls Bed and Breakfast. Reportedly, people attending monthly meetings of the Red River Gorge Climbers' Coalition (held at the B&B) can also climb there at that time. All other climbing is off limits.
Getting There
The Torrent Falls B&B is about five miles south of Miguel's on KY 11.
The Classics
Mountain Project's determination of some of the classic, most popular, highest rated routes for Torrent Falls:
A good route on the easier side of the ratings at this cliff. It ascends a slightly steep wall with smaller than average holds for The Red: more edges and flakes than pockets. ...[more]Browse More Classics in KY
As of 11/24/06, Torrent is sadly closed to the general public. The landowner and his family decided they were tired of climbers failing to follow his rules, and made the decision to close access to the crag.