A 70-Foot-Tall Waterfall And Massive Cave Are Hiding On The Trails Of The Jones-Keeney Area In Kentucky

When you think of the landscape of western Kentucky, you likely picture lakes, farmland, rivers, and an abundance of wildlife. While those can all be found in this area of our state, you may be surprised to see what you can find in the trail town of Dawson Springs. Within the popular hunting region of the Jones-Keeney Wildlife Management Area is a waterfall and cave trail in Kentucky that is incredibly scenic. In fact, a 70-foot-tall waterfall is hiding on this trail and it's a wonderful outdoor adventure. Let's take a look at this waterfall cave in Kentucky.

To find this unique trail, you'll need to head to the Jones-Keeney Wildlife Management Area near Dawson Springs.

There are maps and directions linked below, but this is an area that is open for hunting season, and this trail is a local favorite for a little afternoon adventure.

After you park, you'll head down the trail that is a bit overgrown, but still fairly easy to follow.

It's a mile-long, out-and-back hike that is rated moderate, but definitely has some tricky and more challenging spots. The scenery is beautiful and ranges from grassy fields of flowers and towering trees to interesting rock formations, including a massive cave and waterfall.

Part of the trail takes you up above the cave and waterfall, so you'll have to make your way down if you want that angle.

There is a rope ladder to help, but keep in mind this may be tricky for young children and anyone with mobility concerns.

Once you reach the bottom, you'll be under the cover of a large saltpeter cave opening and if conditions are right, a 70-foot waterfall will cascade from the top.

Like most waterfalls, its presence depends on rainfall and other weather conditions, but there is almost always at least a trickle.

If you do visit after rainfall, be prepared for muddy spots and also expect to find some ticks in this heavily wooded wilderness and wildlife area.

But as long as precautions are taken, there's no reason you won't enjoy this scenic hike. You can explore the area under the cave and even stand behind the waterfall.

This trail near Dawson Springs makes for a great excursion if you're in the area, exploring the other features of the town.

And if you thought western Kentucky only offered lakes and fields of bison, then check out this rocky waterfall trail that's simply beautiful.

Take a closer look at Saltpeter Cave:

You may not think of visiting western Kentucky to hike to caves and waterfalls, but this short and scenic trail will surprise you. Dawson Springs is a trail town, after all, so maybe it's not that surprising that it is home to this beautiful waterfall and cave trail in Kentucky. Did you know this area existed? Have you hiked the trail to this waterfall cave in Kentucky? Let us know in the comments! For other trails in the area as well as updates, check with AllTrails.

If you want to visit more scenic towns, check out these exciting trail towns throughout Kentucky.