Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
Park State park featuring Cumberland Falls waterfall and scenic gorge
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park protects one of Kentucky’s large waterfalls; visitors hike rim trails, paddle the Cumberland River and-on clear full-moon nights-watch for the occasional lunar rainbow or ‘moonbow’ at the falls.
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park protects Cumberland Falls, a prominent waterfall on the Cumberland River in southeastern Kentucky. The falls drop approximately 68 feet and are noted for their width and scenic cascades.
The park’s primary highlight is the waterfall itself, with paved viewing platforms that allow close views of the falls and the river gorge. Several short hiking trails and picnic areas provide access to overlooks and riverside views.
The waterfall has been a regional landmark for generations; the area was later set aside and managed as a Kentucky state park to conserve the falls and surrounding forest. The park’s facilities support day use, hiking, and interpretive information about the site.
The park sits on the Cumberland River in southeastern Kentucky, within driving distance of towns in the region and accessed from the state road network that serves the Cumberland Plateau area.
- Cumberland Falls dimensions: The main attraction is a single large waterfall that drops about 68 feet and spans roughly 125 feet across.
- Moonbow viewing: A lunar rainbow or "moonbow" can appear at the falls on nights with a near-full moon when water flow is sufficient.
How to Get to Cumberland Falls State Resort Park #
The park is best reached by car from Corbin and London, Kentucky, via KY-90. It is roughly 20-30 minutes from Corbin. Follow park signage to Cumberland Falls State Resort Park.
Tips for Visiting Cumberland Falls State Resort Park #
- Stay for an evening full moon if possible - Cumberland Falls is one of the few places where the famous lunar 'moonbow' can appear on clear nights near full moon.
- Walk the Sky Bridge trail for the best frontal view of the falls and a good vantage for photos.
- Arrive early on summer weekends to secure parking; the park has limited lots and the falls attract large crowds.
Best Time to Visit Cumberland Falls State Resort Park #
Late spring through fall for full access to trails and the best conditions; full-moon nights in summer and fall can produce moonbows.
Weather & Climate near Cumberland Falls State Resort Park #
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park's climate is classified as Humid Subtropical - Humid Subtropical climate with warm summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -4°C to 30°C. Abundant rainfall (1263 mm/year), wettest in May, distributed fairly evenly throughout the year.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 7°C and lows of -4°C. Regular rainfall (100 mm).
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February
February is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -3°C. Regular rainfall (97 mm).
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March
March is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (121 mm).
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April
April is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 5°C. Significant rainfall (104 mm).
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May
May is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 10°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (124 mm).
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June
June is mild with highs of 28°C and lows of 15°C. Significant rainfall (105 mm).
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July
July is the warmest month with highs of 30°C and lows of 18°C. Significant rainfall (118 mm).
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August
August is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 17°C. Significant rainfall (102 mm).
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September
September is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 13°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm).
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October
October is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (79 mm).
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November
November is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (105 mm).
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December
December is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -2°C. Significant rainfall (110 mm).
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