Cumberland Falls State Resort ParkAbout Cumberland Falls State Resort Park
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.
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.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | -4° - 7° | -2° | 100 mm | - | - | 2.6 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | -3° - 9° | 1° | 97 mm | - | - | 2.6 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 1° - 15° | 6° | 121 mm | - | - | 2.8 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 5° - 20° | 13° | 104 mm | - | - | 2.7 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 10° - 24° | 17° | 124 mm | - | - | 2.2 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 15° - 28° | 22° | 105 mm | - | - | 2.0 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 18° - 30° | 24° | 118 mm | - | - | 1.8 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 17° - 30° | 23° | 102 mm | - | - | 1.7 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 13° - 27° | 20° | 98 mm | - | - | 1.7 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 6° - 21° | 14° | 79 mm | - | - | 1.8 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 2° - 15° | 7° | 105 mm | - | - | 2.2 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | -2° - 9° | 1° | 110 mm | - | - | 2.4 m/s | - | - |
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.