Cumberland Falls State Park Things to Do Tips by Stephen-KarenConn Top 5 Page for this destination

Cumberland Falls

The main attraction at Cumberland Falls State Park is, of course, Cumberland Falls. Sometimes called "the Niagara of the South," this is the largest waterfall in the United States south of Niagara and east of the Rocky Mountains. The waterfall forms a 125-foot wide curtain that plunges 60-feet into a boulder-strewn gorge below, creating a thunrderous roar and a high column of mist.

Our picture shows the falls at flood stage, although we believe it is actually much prettier when the water is clear and at more normal levels. Our recent trip to Cumberland Falls was after several days of heavy rains.

The falls is famous for its moonbow, which can been seen in the mist on a cloudless night during a full moon. This unique phenomenon can be seen nowhere else the Western Hemisphere.

Address: 7351 Hwy. 90, Corbin, KY 40701

Directions: Cumberland Falls is 20miles southwest of Corbin, Kentucky. Take US 25-W to KY 90. If traveling south on I-75 take exit 25. If traveling north on I-75 take exit 15.

Phone: 1-606-325-0063

Website: http://parks.ky.gov/cumbfal2.htm

Eagle Falls

This very beautiful 44-feet high waterfall is formed where Eagle Creek plunges into the Cumberland River Gorge, about a mile below Cumberland Falls. It is reached by hiking Trail # 9, the Eagle Falls Trail, a 1.5 mile loop. Much of this trail follows the cliff line overlooking the Cumberland River Gorge with sheer drop-offs and spectacular views. When we hiked the trail it was very icy in places and we had to pick our way with extreme caution. There are guard rails in the worst sections. At about the half mile point we were able to see one of the best views back to the Cumberland Falls.

After hiking about a mile the trail becomes a loop. To the right, the trail proceeds down many steps to the river and then proceeds downstream a short distance over several large boulders to the falls. During high water this lower section of the trail can be flooded. The upper trail follows Eagle creek upstream and then crosses a ridge to complete the loop. This is a very rugged section of trail. The hike is strenuous, but the lovely falls is ample reward for the effort. I would not recommend this hike for young children, or those not in reasonably good physical condition.

Address: 7351 Hwy. 90, Corbin, KY 40701

Directions: The trail head to Eagle Falls is just across the Cumberland River Bridge from the Cumberland Falls parking area, on the right.

Phone: 1-606-325-0063

Website: http://parks.ky.gov/cumbfal2.htm