Your guide to 17 must-see Kentucky waterfalls, plus 2 more that are close to Louisville

Kirby Adams, Louisville Courier Journal

July 3, 2023 at 5:00 AM·4 min read

In 1994 the band TLC warned listeners "Don't Go Chasing Waterfalls," but today we offer an alternate suggestion, and to be honest, it's a lot more fun.

Let's do it! Let's chase waterfalls.

Where to start? We're glad you asked because The Kentucky Wildlands, a tourism region that spans 14,000 square miles and 41 counties along the state’s eastern/southeastern border, has curated a guide to 17 of Kentucky's most stunning waterfalls.

The Kentucky Wildlands Waterfall Trail includes 17 of the most impressive waterfalls in the state.

Not only is this a list of breathtaking natural wonders, but for those who are new to the outdoorsy lifestyle, many of the waterfalls are easily accessible.

The trail provides logistical information like length, difficulty and how to access each trail. It also highlights waterfalls with special features, including the tallest waterfall, an ADA-accessible waterfall and family-friendly falls and trails.

“We are incredibly excited to debut this trail so that those unfamiliar with the area can better understand and navigate the diverse beauty of the Wildlands,” said Tammie Nazario, director of The Kentucky Wildlands. “We want to encourage people to discover the natural wonders here, which include an abundance of beautiful waterfalls, and we hope this easy-to-follow guide inspires them to plan a trip to experience some of the many we have to offer.”

No two falls are alike on The Waterfall Trail

Pine Island Falls is one of the 17 waterfalls listed on The Kentucky Wildlands Waterfall Trail

Featured waterfalls on The Kentucky Wildlands Waterfall Trail include Cumberland Falls, also known as the “Niagara of the South,” the 113-foot Yahoo Falls and Creation Falls, which has a plunge pool great for wading.

The trail guide incorporates everything from wheelchair- and stroller-accessible hikes — like the one to Flat Lick Falls — to more challenging routes such as the rocky climb to Eagle Falls.

And if you decide to travel to Cumberland Falls, remember it is also famous for its "moonbow" — a natural phenomenon where a rainbow is produced by moonlight rather than direct sunlight. The moonbow is not an every-night occurrence so the state park has posted information on Facebook with details for your best days (nights) and times to view the lunar rainbow.

How do I access waterfall information?

76 Falls is one of the 17 waterfalls listed on The Kentucky Wildlands Waterfall Trail

The waterfall trail can be found online at explorekywildands.com. The trail is displayed on an illustrated map that gives visitors a glimpse of what each of the 17 falls looks like and their location within The Kentucky Wildlands. You can download and print out the map for reference as well as access photos of the falls, important details and insider tips on the website.

Check out these waterfalls close to Louisville

Tioga Falls near Fort Knox in Radcliff, Kentucky is a great day trip if you live in Louisville.

If you have limited patience for time in a car, those who live in the Louisville area don't have to drive almost three hours to Cumberland Falls to enjoy beautiful waterfalls. Recently I took my family on an afternoon waterfall adventure only 30 minutes from downtown Louisville.

We started by hiking approximately two miles to the spectacular Tioga Falls near Fort Knox in Radcliff, Kentucky. Our second stop of the day was the not-to-be-missed Fairmont Falls, which is south of the Gene Snyder Freeway. Access to Fairmont Falls is limited to three vehicles per day, and you'll need to contact the Jefferson Memorial Forest Welcome Center to obtain an access code to enter.

We've also visited waterfalls during bicycle outings. It's an easy ride over the Big Four Pedestrian Bridge to Southern Indiana's Falls of the Ohio.

After a good rainfall, another bicycle ride with a fantastic view is Limestone Gorge Waterfall located in Broad Run Park, which is part of The Parklands, east of downtown Louisville.

With so many natural wonders so close to town we've gotten lots of suggestions from "waterfall aficionados" including the waterfalls at Harrods Creek Park, 6530 Montero Drive in Prospect. For a day when we have more time to explore, we've heard Clifty Falls in Madison, Indiana, is a nice area to visit.

Things to know before you go chasing waterfalls

Eagle Falls is one of the 17 waterfalls listed on The Kentucky Wildlands Waterfall Trail

Before heading out to explore any waterfall, it’s a good idea to check on current trail conditions, waterfall volume and any restrictions concerning a particular waterfall’s access trail.

For instance, some trails are not pet friendly mainly for their own protection, as well as that of the local plant and animal life. Some waterfalls are also best visited during the rainier months of the year, while others are exceptional year-round, with wintertime offering its own magical scenic backdrop.

Also, don't forget to carry water and a charged cellphone, not just for photos but in case of an emergency.

What to know about The Kentucky Wildlands

Princess Falls in McCreary County is one of the 17 waterfalls listed on The Kentucky Wildlands Waterfall Trail

The Kentucky Wildlands, launched in 2020 to develop a sustainable tourism-based economy and create connectivity across the region, designed its new waterfall trail to help people access the natural wonders of the area.

With more than 14,000 square miles and 800-plus waterfalls in this part of Kentucky, the trail makes it easy for people to explore the ancient forests, mountains and unspoiled terrain of the region while learning more about its history and legends.

For more information visit explorekywildlands.com.

Reach features reporter Kirby Adams at kadams@courier-journal.com.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky Wildlands offers guide to 17 stunning waterfalls

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