Kentucky has a huge number of waterfalls. Some are far off the beaten path, but others are easily reached and family-friendly. Read on to discover our favorite kid-friendly waterfall hikes in Kentucky.
Cumberland Falls
Hardly a hike, Cumberland Falls is reached by an easy walk down a paved sidewalk starting at the state park’s visitors center. Venturing a bit past the main viewing platform will offer several different views of the falls from a paved walkway. There are some stairs, so the trail isn’t stroller-friendly, but it’s easy enough for small kids, just watch them near railings!
For more intrepid hikers, Cumberland Falls State Park and the immediate surrounding area offer several other waterfall hikes including the Eagle Falls trail, which offers an interesting view of Cumberland Falls from a different angle, and Dog Slaughter Falls. Eagle Falls is a moderate to difficult trail with many stairs, and is best done on dry days. Those with older children may find it to be a good option but it’s not ideal for younger kids.
Cove Springs Park
Cove Springs Park in Frankfort is a nice place to spend a day enjoying the outdoors. There’s a nice waterfall, known as Hurst Falls, right in view of the parking area, and picnic shelter. The creek near the waterfall is perfect for wading, splashing and skipping rocks. After you’ve enjoyed the waterfalls, there’s a walking tour where you can learn about the history of Cove Springs. There are several hiking trails, many of which are very family friendly.
Read more about Cove Springs Park
Fulling Mill Falls at Shaker Village
Located along Shawnee Run Trail, a 6 mile strenuous loop trail, this waterfall hike didn’t sound very kid-friendly to me, so we didn’t attempt it for the longest time. However, if you simply walk to the falls and back to your car when finished, rather than attempting the loop, it’s an awesome, kid-friendly waterfall hike! The small, but picturesque Fulling Mill Falls is just under a mile from Shaker Village’s West Trailhead. There is a trail map at the trailhead, and the trail is very well marked to the waterfall. There is a creek crossing, so wear shoes you don’t mind getting wet. The kids love playing in the water here. The trail is mostly flat with some slight incline in sections.
Anglin Falls
Anglin Falls is located along a 1.7 mile trail which terminates at the base of this pretty waterfall. The falls are near Mount Vernon, Kentucky and are not fall from Richmond. The walk is mostly uphill to reach the falls, but our 5 year old managed with no problem at all, and minimal whining. The trail is well-marked, but can be muddy. The last little bit just before the falls becomes rocky. The falls are beautiful any time of year, but will have the best flow right after a good rain.
Flat Lick Falls
This might just be our favorite waterfall in Kentucky. It’s an impressive plunge waterfall that drops nearly 30 feet from the cliff above to a nice, clear plunge pool that’s perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. The waterfall is visible from a viewing platform above, just a short distance along a paved, wheelchair- and stroller-accessible path. Reaching the bottom of the waterfall will involve some light scrambling. It’s a bit tricky in spots, but our 5-year old managed with little assistance, as did mom carrying a 10 month old in a carrier. The park has approximately 5 miles of developed trails but you’ll only have to hike only about 400 yards to the viewing platform to see the falls. Swimming is permitted, but jumping from the waterfall is strictly forbidden.
Read more about Flat Lick Falls and other Waterfalls in Jackson County
Creation Falls
The Rock Bridge Trail Loop in Red River Gorge is a great waterfall hike to do with kids. The trail is a loop trail that is 1.4 miles long. The trail offer views of Rock Bridge arch, which is where it gets its name. It follows a creek for much of its length and passes Creation Falls, a pretty waterfall. The trail is very popular and is an easy trail and offers a great way for kids to see a waterfall in Red River Gorge.
