Red River Gorge Columbus Day Weekend- Absurd?

Hey guys, New England climber looking to take a trip to the Red in October. I'll be in the midst of a 'power endurance' phase of my training and the Red's a great place for this style. The only week that works for me is the 11-17th, the first part of which is Columbus Day weekend. How absurdly crowded is it during this time? I will probably do it anyway but may need to brace myself for the scene and just wanted to know how bad it gets down there (never been before).

Cheers,

Paul

October 10-12 is 'Rocktoberfest" at the RRG, an annual fund raising event held by the Red River Gorge Climbing Coalition.. All kind of events, sponsors, etc. Lots of fun and for a good cause, but if you're there to seriously climb.. good luck. This is THE busiest weekend of the year, and many people seem to be there to party as much as to climb. Definitely avoid Muir Valley and other more popular climbing areas..

Once the weekend is over, most people will go home, and then you'll be able to get your climb on. The Red is a really incredible place, have an awesome time!

CLIMB EARLY! With so many people there to party and/or are not serious climbers most crags are pretty vacant early in then day. If you can be at the crag around 7 you will have it to yourself for several hours, but it is still best to avoid Muir Valley that weekend.

Additionally the crag usually clears out by around 4PM. So you could climb late.

The Red is mostly weekend warriors so it will be empty during the week.

Thanks for the info! Glad to know that's when Rocktoberfest is. I actually determined that I have another week opening a month later (Veteran's Day) and will try to convince my friends that this is far better. While no longer in the PE phase of training, I'll be in good form and in my 'Sending' window. Should be a blast, either way. I'm really looking forward to the trip and am happy to have that beta in case I do end up going in October.

Cheers,

Paul