Lake Cumberland is situated in southern Kentucky, nestled beside the Daniel Boone National Park in Appalachian Mountains. The stunning landscape is characterized by forested ridges, lush valleys, narrow ravines and sandstone cliffs. It is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise that offers all kinds of water sports, fishing and rock-climbing. Panoramic views of the lake, and surrounding rivers, waterfalls and sandstone ridges also draw hikers who find unforgettable trails to explore.
This scenic 3.4 mile, out-and-back trail is a moderate trek is a section of the 280-mile Sheltowee Trace National Recreational Trail in the Daniel Boone National Forest. The trail meanders alongside a stream in gorgeous Hawk Creek Valley, a richly-forested area with several unique rock formations. Hikers cross a wooden suspension bridge to a flat ridge above a waterfall, which provides a lovely picnic spot above Cumberland Lake. The hike has a 1,300-foot elevation gain. Open year-round, but the views are best in the spring and fall.
Daniel Boone National Forest
1700 Bypass Road
Winchester, KY 40391
859-745-3100
fs.fed.us
The Eagles Falls Trail is a moderate one-and-a-half mile loop encompassing a beautiful area in Cumberland Falls State Park. The terrain is flat, but rugged. About a half-mile from the trailhead, the trail features a stunning overlook that offers panoramic views of Cumberland Lake, as well as Falls, Cumberland Lake and the River Gorge. The trail continues past a historic rock shelter built by the Civilian Conversation Corps and winds towards Eagle Falls. Hikers should expect seasonal stream crossings and a few strenuous sections on rugged trail.
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
7351 Highway 90
Corbin, KY 40701-8857
800-325-0063
parks.ky.gov
The Cumberland Falls to Laurel River trail is a 14.4 mile-backpacking trek through the Cumberland River Gorge in the Daniel Boone National Forest. The moderate, mainly-flat groomed trail begins at the Cumberland Lake and traverses a boulder garden and historic rockhouses, as well as scenic mini-gorges cut by side streams. The trail takes hikers past Cumberland River and Falls, as well as Star Creek Falls and Dog Slaughter Falls. It leads to the clear waters of Laurel River Lake surrounded by hickory groves. The trail is open year-round, but is best in the fall.
Daniel Boone National Forest
1700 Bypass Road
Winchester, KY 40391
859-745-3100
fs.fed.us
