Kentucky is home to some of the best waterfalls in the country. These majestic cascades offer incredible views, historic legends, scenic trails and much more!
The 69-foot-high Cumberland Falls – dubbed the ‘Niagara of the South’ – is one of the most popular and impressive. It offers sweeping views from several vantage points and also produces a moonbow on full-moon nights.
Cumberland Falls is a beautiful waterfall located near Corbin in McCreary County, Kentucky. Also referred to as the Niagara of the South, the falls are a popular destination for tourists.
The 125-foot curtain of water that cascades over the sandstone edge is one of the most impressive in Kentucky. It is a sight to behold, day or night, and its powerful roar can be felt from a far.
On a full moon, the mist from the falls creates a rare phenomenon called a moonbow. This phenomenon is not often seen elsewhere in the world, and Cumberland Falls is one of only two places where it regularly occurs.
The 17 miles of hiking trails at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park meander through woodlands, over streams and rock formations, along the river, and up to cliff tops. Some of these trails connect with backpacking trails in the nearby Daniel Boone National Forest.
In the Red River Gorge, Copperas Falls lies at the head of Copperas Creek near the Osborne Bend Loop Trail. This 40-foot waterfall cascades into a turquoise blue natural pool.
This waterfall is also known for its ability to produce a “moonbow.” This phenomenon occurs when light is refracted by water droplets, making it a unique sight. It can be seen for about two days on either side of a full moon.
The best time to visit this waterfall is after a heavy rain, as the falls will be flowing at their most impressive. You’ll also have the added bonus of being able to take a dip in the cool pool below!
The hike to this beautiful waterfall is a bit of a challenge and can be quite damp. However, it’s well worth the effort and a great way to experience some of the beauty that the Red River Gorge has to offer!
Kentucky is known for its beautiful blue grass, rolling hills, and horse country. But if you’re looking for something a little different, the state is also home to a whole host of breathtaking waterfalls that will make your trip more than just a simple vacation.
Anglin Falls is a picturesque 75-foot cascade that rushes down a boulder field into a pool of water. This is a pretty sight in any weather, but it’s especially spectacular after a heavy rainfall.
This waterfall is located in the John B. Stephenson Memorial Forest State Nature Preserve in Rockcastle County near Berea. It’s a great spot for hiking, birding, and exploring the natural environment.
The waterfall is open year-round but it tends to dry up in the summer, so it’s best to visit during the wet season (winter through spring). If you’re planning a hike to Anglin Falls, be sure to check the weather forecast before you head out.
If you’re in the mood for a hike to see a waterfall, consider this one located in McCreary County. It also happens to be a fairly easy one.
The trail takes you along a stream that feeds into the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River, as well as through a few thickets of rhododendron, which makes for some very nice views along the way. The trail ends at the aforementioned falls, which are trickling a bit after a dry stretch of time, but still look gorgeous with recent rains.
Aside from the obvious waterfalls, a winter storm may be the most spectacular thing to happen in Kentucky. It may turn the water bodies into ice wonderland, which is just as well for tourists looking to get in on the action.
