The One Enchanting Place In Kentucky That Must Go On Your Bucket List Immediately
By Rachel Shulhafer|Published September 29, 2016
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Rachel Shulhafer
Author
I grew up in Louisville, Kentucky. I have lived elsewhere twice, but keep coming back. I'm a video editor and freelance writer who enjoys watching people wearing University of Louisville uniforms excel at sports, scaling the faces of large rocks, and hanging out with my border collie/laborador/cattle dog mutt thingy that I have.
Picking just one place in Kentucky that qualifies as “enchanting” is tough. There are dozens of spots in every corner of the state that are absolutely captivating. But if you haven’t seen Dog Slaughter Falls in Daniel Boone National Forest near Corbin, you’re seriously missing out. If you want to avoid the masses that will inevitably be gathered at Cumberland Falls, then check out this picturesque waterfall and swimming hole.
This 15-foot waterfall stays flowing even during dry spells when other waterfalls have disappeared. It will be more spectacular just after a rain storm, but you’re guaranteed to have a gorgeous view no matter when you go.
The trail to the Falls is a typical gorgeous Kentucky hike. You will wind through a tunnel of rhododendrons as you follow Dog Slaughter Creek to the waterfall. The last 0.2 miles of the hike after you encounter to waterfall will bring you to the trail’s end at Cumberland River, where Dog Slaughter Creek empties. Depending on your hiking experience, you can choose between two different trailheads that will both lead you to the waterfall, but differ in the length. The first trailhead is located off Forest Road 195 about 0.8 miles from its junction with KY-90. This trailhead is about two miles from Dog Slaughter Falls, so your whole journey there and back will be just over four miles. A second trailhead is about two miles further down Forest Road 195, and will cut your hike in half, making the full trip two miles. Either way, the trail remains at a level elevation for the most part, and the hike is moderately easy.
Once you make it to Dog Slaughter Falls, you’ll never want to leave. Surrounded by a canopy of trees, the area around the waterfall makes the perfect refuge to cool off on a hot day, but is incredibly scenic no matter what time of year you’re visiting. The base of the waterfall pools to make a perfect swimming hole.
Contrary to what its name suggests, dogs are welcome on this trail, and seem to like the swimming hole just as much as their people do.
If you’re looking for a peaceful and serene place to enjoy a waterfall and maybe take a swim, definitely put Dog Slaughter Falls on your bucket list. It’s a hidden gem that a lot of people pass over on a trip to the Cumberland Falls area. Share some other enchanting places in Kentucky below!
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