Waterfalls of The Kentucky Wildlands

Breathtaking views, historic legends, scenic trails and Kentucky’s greatest natural cascades surround the many spectacular waterfalls of The Kentucky Wildlands.

Witness the awe-inspiring 69-foot-high Cumberland Falls, often referred to as the Niagara of the South, spanning the entire 125-foot width of the Cumberland River in the Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, deep in the heart of the majestic Daniel Boone National Forest. From several sweeping vantage points, see Kentucky’s biggest waterfall, a towering natural wonder, as it plunges down seven stories, crashing into the boulder-strewn gorge below. Cumberland Falls is home to the Western Hemisphere’s only known regularly occurring moonbow, a natural phenomenon that occurs when the light from a full moon produces a rainbow on a clear night.

Also located in Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is impressive Eagle Falls, nestled in a rocky cove down an easy 1.5-mile trail. The Daniel Boone National Forest is home to numerous waterfalls, including Yahoo Falls, the tallest in the state at 113 feet, and Princess Falls on Lick Creek. Other waterfalls well-known to local hikers and photographers are Greasy Creek Falls, Mill Springs Falls and Meadow Creek Falls.

Discover the legend of the first “swimmer” at the secluded 60-foot-high Broke Leg Falls by checking out local folklore about the ox who took the first dive. Trek the surrounding pristine upper and lower falls parkland area, home to more than 279 plant species and up to 38 known indigenous species of birds. Another great place for trail hiking and exploring the flora and fauna is Bad Branch Falls outside of Whitesburg. Venture into the rugged Red River Gorge Geological Area and explore Creation Falls with its family-friendly plunge pool (great for wading). Then backpack further to Pooch Turtle Falls and look for the nearby hidden natural Turtle Back Arch.

Some falls are known mainly to locals, such as Town Creek Falls near Monticello, while others you won’t find on a map. But no matter how famous or obscure, part of the fun and excitement lies in discovering these amazing one-of-a-kind falls and cascades scattered throughout The Kentucky Wildlands.

 

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