See accommodation nearby
Although this waterfall is quite impressive by day, its main attraction is only revealed at night, as it is the only place in the Western Hemisphere where moon gusts regularly occur. Cumberland Falls is often referred to as the Little Niagara. At 68 ft (21 m) high and 125 ft (38 m) wide, Cumberland Falls is the second largest waterfall east of the Rockies. The waterfall is located in southeastern Kentucky on the Cumberland River, surrounded by Cumberland Falls State Resort Park.
When watching a moonbow over Cumberland Falls.
A moonbow is an unusual natural phenomenon that happens when light from the moon reflects off droplets of water. Moonbows are generally harder to see than rainbows. They often appear as faint white arcs and might be better seen on camera than by the human eye. It is only possible to see a moonbow near a large waterfall. They are often sighted in Hawaii as well as in Africa. Cumberland Falls is one of the best places to observe this phenomenon, as moonbows regularly occur there, with peak conditions during full moon phases. For higher chances of seeing a moonbow, a number of conditions must be met. The moon must be as full as it is when it shines brightest. The weather must be cloudless and the sky dark and clear. The last few hours before sunrise is the best time to see moon arches.
Activities in Cumberland Falls
Cumberland Falls Park Resort offers many activities during the warmer months of the year. Birdwatchers can encounter many species of woodpeckers and woodpeckers. Carolina Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, Carolina Wren and Northern Cardinal are also commonly seen. If you are an avid angler, you can enjoy fishing the Cumberland River, which offers abundant numbers of trophy brown trout and rainbow trout. Bass, catfish and panfish are abundant in the river. Fishing in the Cumberland River requires a licence. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park also offers 17 mi (27 km) of hiking trails. You can also enjoy many activities in the nearby Daniel Boone National Forest: Horseback riding, a swimming pool and rafting are available from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day.
Where to stay in Cumberland Falls
The historic DuPont Lodge in the middle of the park is the best option. One of the most beautiful state park lodges in the US features a large observation deck over the Cumberland River, stone fireplaces and a wood-panelled interior. Cumberland Falls State Resort Park also has 50 campsites with electricity and water. Campers can use showers, restrooms at the park. Camping is available from mid-March through October.
Cumberland Falls is a perfect weekend getaway for nature enthusiasts, often overlooked because of its remote location. However, it is worth noting that it is the largest waterfall in the eastern United States after Niagara Falls, and its mesmerising moon gusts are definitely worth a visit.
Practical info
How long is Cumberland Falls hike?
The trail is about 5 mi (8 km), and it starts from the DuPont Lodge.
How much is the admission charge to Cumberland Falls State Resort Park?
There's no admission fee
What does a moonbow look like?
It looks like a faint arch produced by white light
