Cumberland Falls

Cumberland Falls was the first waterfall I visited in Kentucky and what a find! There are several overlooks to view this impressive 125 feet wide, 68 feet high waterfall. Cumberland Falls is also known as the Little Niagara, Niagara of the South or Great Falls and is located inside the Daniel Boone National Forest.

Cumberland Falls is also known for its incredible moonbow. During a full moon on clear nights, you can see a rare lunar rainbow, or moonbow formed by the mist from the waterfall. Dates and times for the moonbow are listed on the Cumberland Falls website. Click here to see the dates.

There are several overlooks that you can access to view Cumberland Falls. The first one you will come to will be after you park in the parking lot and walk past the gift shop, snack stand and restrooms. This overlook will be on your left hand side and is directly above Cumberland Falls. This overlook was under renovation when I last visited in July 2017. Keep walking and you will come to a place where two trails split off. Both of these main trails are paved.

Off to your right is the handicapped accessible trail which will take you to an overlook of Cumberland Falls. To your left you will descend down steps (about 30) to the second trail which leads to multiple overlooks. The first overlook you arrive at will require you to go down more steps (about 30-40 depending on if you stop at the first overlook or go down to the second). There are rails for you to hold onto as you go down these steps. This is the closest overlook to the waterfall and the view is amazing. You are so close you will get some of the mist on you. Once you view the waterfall return to the main trail.

The next overlook on the trail to the left is just a short way down and the one after it is just about the same. These views allow you to see more of the surrounding area around the waterfall. These are still really great views so if you don’t want to do anymore stairs then use these two overlooks. From the last of these overlooks you can access the handicapped trail to return to the beginning of the trail if you don’t want to climb anymore steps. Please just make sure to give the right of way to wheelchairs, scooters and strollers. The trail is plenty wide for passing.

Cumberland Falls is part of a resort area, however you do not have to stay at the resort to view the beauty of Cumberland Falls. There is a lodge, woodland rooms, cottages and camping available if you choose to stay there and explore all their other trails and Eagle Falls.