The Adventurous Waterfall Trail In Kentucky With Views That Are Worth The Challenge
By Andrea Limke|Published August 16, 2019
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Andrea Limke
Author
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
When Kentuckians decide to hit the trails for a scenic hike in our state, they tend to head toward a state park or Red River Gorge, or another more well known destination. Of course these are all absolutely worth a visit, but there are many places throughout the state that are also worthy of a hiking adventure. Located on scenic Pine Mountain in Harlan County, the Bad Branch State Nature Preserve is home to a waterfall trail in Kentucky that’s filled with one natural wonder after another. Hike to the falls and then continue on to an incredible overlook with views that are definitely worth the challenge.
Eastern Kentucky near the Virginia border is a stunning, yet underrated area of our state.
The mountains of this region offer many scenic hiking trails, several of which can be found in Harlan County. In this area, you need to plan a visit to Bad Branch State Nature Preserve and the Bad Branch Trail.
This waterfall trail in Kentucky is located on KY-932 and has a small parking lot near the trailhead, shown above.
You can park here and make sure to check out the signage before getting started on the trail. You'll see that it's not too far to reach the waterfall, but the entire hike can be lengthy if you do the entire thing.
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The first mile of the trail is not very strenuous and is filled with natural beauty.
In fact this entire hike within the preserve offers unique plant life, rock formations, creeks, and beautiful surprises with every step. Keep in mind, since this is a lesser known trail, you will want to exercise caution throughout the adventure.
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Especially after a good rainfall, it's easy to spot Bad Branch Falls when you come to it on the trail.
At 60 feet tall, it is quite impressive, but the flow of the water does change with the weather. Hopefully you'll be treated to one of the most magnificent falls in the state during your visit.
But again, use caution if you choose to get a closer look. And as with any hiking trail in Kentucky, stick to the path and show our beautiful landscape the utmost respect (leave no trace of your visit!).
If you decide to continue on the trail, things become a bit more challenging and prepare for your heart to race.
It's an uphill climb through the forest to reach a peak of Pine Mountain. The spot is called High Rock and it offers sweeping views of the valleys and hills below.
Along with the waterfall and overlook, Bad Branch Trail is known for its rock formations.
You'll come across massive forms that appear to just hover on the side of the mountain. Also be on the lookout for hard-to-find plant life and wild life.
As a state nature preserve, follow the guidelines put in place to keep this trail a beautiful place for generations of Kentuckians to come.
If you think you've tackled the best waterfall trail in Kentucky, it's time to try Bad Branch Trail. The views and scenery are worth the challenge and you'll be happy you conquered this incredible hike in the Bluegrass.
The Bad Branch Trail is a waterfall trail in Kentucky that may be challenging at times, but it’s worth the effort. Experience a stunning waterfall, massive rock formations, and a view that’ll make you forget all about the climb. Have you explored this area of Kentucky and hiked to Bad Branch Falls and High Rock? Share your experience with us in the comments!
For more information on the Bad Branch Trail and Preserve, including a map, visit its website here.
Address: KY-932, Eolia, KY 40826
And for more overlooks on Pine Mountain that are also worthy of a visit (and much easier to reach), check out our previous article here.
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