Kentucky’s Scenic Waterfall Loop Will Take You to 6 Different Waterfalls

Whenever you get the chance to see a waterfall in Kentucky, it’s always a memorable experience. But since our beautiful state is filled with these natural wonders, why not visit several at once? This Kentucky waterfalls road trip through a portion of the Bluegrass takes you to six of the best waterfalls in the state. Some of them can be seen just a few steps from your car, while others require a bit of hiking. But all of these stunning areas of Kentucky are worth a visit, and you can turn this loop into an unforgettable weekend adventure.

What To Know Before You Go

This road trip requires approximately five hours of drive time. We recommend breaking this journey up into several days so you can take your time at each spot, especially at the destinations where a hike is required to view the falls. Feel free to use this interactive map to customize your road trip and best plan your journey.

Stop One: 76 Falls on Lake Cumberland

Of course, you can choose to visit these waterfalls in any order, but 76 Falls is a great place to start. This large waterfall cascades into Lake Cumberland and can be seen on the water by boat or by car from the overlook above the falls.

Stop Two: Princess Falls

Next up, head to Whitley City and try the popular 2-mile out-and-back trail to Princess Falls. This is an easy, kid-friendly hike with plenty of beautiful scenery. The trail is a small portion of Sheltowee Trace, so you can tell everyone you walked along one of the most well-known trails in the country. The flow of the falls depends on the weather, but it's always a lovely area.

Stop Three: Cumberland Falls

Not far from Princess Falls is the largest waterfall in Kentucky—Cumberland Falls. The paved walk to view the falls is easy and quick from the parking lot, but keep in mind there will likely be many people when visiting at peak times. As one of the best waterfalls in Kentucky, this spot should be seen at least once by all locals.

Stop Four: Eagle Falls

You don't even have to leave Cumberland Falls State Resort Park to visit the next waterfall. Eagle Falls can be found within Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, and many argue it's along one of the best hiking trails in the state. In fact, you'll get another view of Cumberland Falls while hiking to this beauty on a trail that's just about two miles long.

Stop Five: Van Hook Falls

Head just a little ways north to reach the trailhead for Van Hook Falls. This scenic trail is five miles long, but you can choose to make it shorter if you like and still be treated to many waterfalls. Even though it is lengthy, it's relatively easy and great for all ages. The natural beauty along this trail is undeniable.

Stop Six: Flat Lick Falls

The last waterfall on this loop is near McKee and is situated on a short, paved trail that is easily accessible. Flat Lick Falls can be viewed from an overlook on the paved trail, and you can also take the dirt path down to the base of the falls. Like the others, the flow depends on the weather, and this one is best seen after rainfall. The hike to Flat Lick Falls might only be about a half mile long, but it is still a wonderfully scenic hike—and the reward at the end is spectacular.

If you began at 76 Falls and returned at Flat Lick Falls, then you’ve completed the loop. You could easily spend weeks, months, and even years exploring all of the waterfalls in Kentucky. But since that’s tricky for most of us, start with this scenic loop road trip around Daniel Boone National Forest that takes you to six of the best Kentucky waterfalls.

If you are searching for even more travel inspiration in the Bluegrass State, check out several of our favorite road trip itineraries in Kentucky. From summer road trips to family adventures, there’s something for everyone. And if you simply want to chase waterfalls, here is our list of the best waterfalls in Kentucky. Each one is worthy of a spot on your bucket list—or as a waterfall road trip destination.