Discover The 10 Most Impressive Waterfalls in Kentucky

You may not know it, but the state of Kentucky is characterized by its breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural scenery features unique to Kentucky, ranging from valleys to ridges and forests. Kentucky is home to 48% forestlands, some with breathtaking waterfalls you have to see to believe! We’ve compiled a list of the ten best waterfalls in Kentucky to visit the next time you find yourself in this unique state. 

1. Eagle Falls

Eagle Falls is located in Cumberland Falls State Park. The campgrounds at this park feature several amenities, including hiking, mountain biking, and whitewater rafting. In less than two miles, you will hike through some of the most spectacular terrains in the country to get to Eagle Falls. As you approach the falls, you’ll see a dramatic 45-foot drop that cascades directly into the Cumberland River. 

2. Creation Falls

To reach Creation Falls from the Rock Bridge Trail Loop is a short, less than two-mile hike. There are a few lookout points along the trail that offer great views of greenery all around you. In addition to its scenic beauty, this waterfall has an exciting feature in that you can climb along its slopes, using them as water slides. This makes it a wonderful place to take children, as they will definitely have fun! 

3. Bad Branch Falls

Located in Bad Branch State Nature Preserve, Bad Branch Falls is a waterfall on the southern side of the Pine Mountains. The falls are 60 feet high and cascade over beautiful sandstone cliffs. It takes just over a mile to walk to the waterfall along an old timber road that dates back to the 1930s. 

4. Cumberland Falls

Cumberland Falls is one of the most visited waterfalls in Kentucky. It’s no wonder that this waterfall has become so popular, as it stands 69 feet high and spans 125 feet wide. It is most popular to visit during a full moon when a natural phenomenon known as a moonbow is supposed to occur. During the night, the light from the moon illuminates the mist from the waterfall. Now, that’s a stunning sight to behold!

5. Yahoo Falls

Located in Big South Fork National Recreation Area is the Yahoo Falls. These 113-foot falls cascade into a pool below, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Because Yahoo Falls has a seasonal flow, you may only see a trickle if you visit in the summer. The falls are pretty easily accessible, and you can even walk behind them. An unforgettable experience awaits you at these falls.

6. Broke Leg Falls

Broke Leg Falls is a waterfall in Kentucky with a lot of history. In the 1980s, it was privately owned and abandoned until Menifee County bought it and maintained it. Following the celebration of the park’s return, a tornado hit and destroyed much of the forest. Though the trail has been cleaned, there are still some parts blocked off, as well as some debris scattered throughout. You will appreciate the falls even more, knowing its history after trekking 60 feet up to see the 60 ft cascade.

7. Tioga Falls

This impressive 130-foot waterfall is a sight to behold. Even though Tioga Falls is the tallest waterfall in Kentucky, it is divided into many smaller cascades, leaving Yahoo Falls the tallest. Tioga Creek’s water creates a powerful cascade that flows down Tioga Falls. The hike to the falls is about two miles round trip.

8. Flat Lick Falls

The Flat Lick waterfall in Kentucky falls 30 feet into a deep pool of water as it cascades. There is a short and easy trail leading to the falls, about a half-mile long. Those visiting the pool are welcome to dip in the water, but be careful since the water is about 9 feet below the cascading falls.  

9. Princess Falls

You can reach Princess Falls by taking the Sheltowee Trace Trail for about two miles. Along the trail, you’ll see many unique rock formations and small waterfalls. Those interested in seeing Princess Falls can do so from above or even on the sand below the bottom pool of water.

10. Anglin Falls

The Anglin Falls, a 75-foot waterfall that rushes down boulders into a pool of water, is a picturesque sight. There is a trail less than a mile long that leads to the falls, and the surrounding vegetation is lush. Make sure you visit the falls after a heavy rain when the falls are at their best.  

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/alexeys