Now is the perfect time to get out into nature and explore your home state. Do you know what is best about Springtime? Waterfalls! Because of the heavy rain and snow during the Winter months, waterfalls are at their prime as the snow melts away and rivers grow. Take advantage the seasonal change by going out to explore some of the best waterfalls Kentucky has to offer.
1.Cumberland Falls
First on the list is Cumberland Falls. Located in the South-Eastern corner of the state just 30 miles outside of London, Cumberland Falls is quite a sight to see if you find yourself in the area. Standing 60 feet high and an impressive 125 feet wide, the falls will leave you in awe from its sheer size and the roar it produces.
Aside from the dramatic photo-op offered by this waterfall, there is more to do than just stare if you have an itch for adventure. White water rafting and canoeing/kayaking are popular in this area if you have the inclination to get closer to this natural beauty. Additionally, campsites are available in Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, and if you’d prefer a few more creature comforts make sure to check out DuPont Lodge or one of the cozy cottages for staying overnight in the park.
2.Eagle Falls
Second up we have Eagle Falls. If you’re interested in seeing Cumberland Falls, this is a stop you must take along the way. Located in Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, this waterfall is accessed through the Eagle Falls Trail (Trail 9). The out-and-back hike is only around 1.5 miles but some sections are very steep and rocky, so come prepared with proper hiking shoes and bring water. The base of the 50-foot waterfall not only offers a view of Eagle Falls and its serene pools but also thundering Cumberland Falls.
The trail (and the park as a whole) does get busy during the summer months, so plan your visit accordingly if you want to avoid big crowds. Because this waterfall is located in the same park as Cumberland Falls, all of the information I listed above for activities and overnight stays apply to this one too. While more difficult to reach than Cumberland Falls, I know you won’t regret putting in the extra effort to see Eagle Falls up close!
3. Dog Slaughter Falls
The final waterfall you must visit in Kentucky is Dog Slaughter Falls. Despite the less than appealing name, Dog Slaughter Falls is both tranquil and gorgeous. Accessing these falls takes a little more work than Cumberland Falls, and along with the fact that it is less well known makes for the perfect secluded day trip.
Located in Daniel Boone National Forest and just 10 miles from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, this hidden gem of natural beauty offers an escape from the crowds attracted to Cumberland Falls. The trailhead can be found off of Forest Service Road 195, Dog Slaughter Falls Trail #414. I encourage bringing a backpack with food and water, because while it is only a mile to reach the falls a picnic by its base is quite the relaxing experience. You’ll most certainly want pictures documenting your adventure, and if you have a camera up for the task, long exposures of Dog Slaughter Falls have an enchanting air to them.
Looking for more waterfalls to discover in the state of Kentucky? If so, I encourage you to check out kywaterfalls.com. They have mapped out over 700 waterfalls across Kentucky! On their site you will find all kinds of useful information, such as an interactive map where you can click on individual waterfalls and see a page with pictures, GPS coordinates, height of the falls, and a bunch of other details like whether the land is public or private.
They have also compiled lists of the top 10 tallest and widest waterfalls in Kentucky as well as the top 10 counties with the most waterfalls. They are a wonderful resource if waterfalls are your thing, so I highly recommend you give their page a visit!
With waterfalls reaching their peak flow during the Spring months, it is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of your next weekend off and explore the natural beauty Kentucky has to offer. Now go out and explore, but make sure to pack out trash and leave no trace so that these falls can be enjoyed for generations to come!
