This Is the Most Peaceful Trail at Cumberland Falls State Park

Nearly 800,000 visitors flock to Cumberland Falls State Park each year to soak in the splendor of its magnificent namesake waterfall, Cumberland Falls. The waterfall drops approximately 68 feet and spans 126 feet wide. It's a jaw-dropping natural wonder that's perhaps most famous for producing a Moonbow, an otherworldly phenomenon where viewers can see a dazzling moonlit rainbow on nights when the moon is particularly full. As you can imagine, trails leading to the waterfall are popular and quite busy during the summer months. Fortunately, there are some less crowded alternatives, Blue Bend Trail being a lovely example.

The Blue Bend Trail is a 4.5-mile loop that hugs the Cumberland River and follows the long-distance Sheltowee Trace Trail. You'll begin your adventure at the Eagle Falls lot, also known as the Trail 9 lot. You'll want to be sure to follow the correct signage for the Blue Bend Trail, as there are lots of other spur trails in this area. It's also a good idea to download AllTrails+ so you can access trail maps in real time.

The trail begins with an uphill climb through the woods. The incline is fairly gradual, and the total elevation gain is about 500 feet. There's something special about the trees here; the lush vegetation gives the hike an enchanted feel, especially in the height of summer. When you're out on the trail, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildflowers, including light pink and bright yellow Lady Slippers.

Eventually, you'll have reached the top of the ridge and an old logging road, at which point you'll want to pass through the nature preserve gate. As the trail descends to the river and joins the Sheltowee Trace, you'll begin to notice some unique rock formations. When you reach the junction, you'll want to go left to continue on toward Gatliff Bridge.

This trail may not have the dramatic appeal of others that lead to Cumberland Falls, but the reviews speak for themselves. Hikers appreciate that it's well-marked, peaceful, and offers a variety of terrain. While the main attraction, the waterfall, is certainly worth seeing, I'd argue that this less-traveled trail gives a very holistic view of this region of Kentucky, with its dramatic rock features, stunning forests, and the ever-present Cumberland River.

If you do go in the summer, be mindful that snakes are common in this area. It's also a great idea to pack extra water and wear sturdy hiking shoes, especially if you have sensitive knees. Have you visited Cumberland Falls State Park recently? If not, be sure to share this article with a fellow hiking enthusiast and let the planning begin!

Looking for even more hiking inspiration? We've put together a list of our all-time favorite hiking trails in Kentucky, and it's worth a look. Plus, here's another little-known hiking trail where you can avoid the crowds.