Many would argue that fall is the best time of year to go hiking in Kentucky. The temperatures are usually a little cooler, there are typically fewer bugs, and you can’t beat the scenery of our state’s natural features surrounded by fall colors. There are dozens of scenic trails that are worth a visit during this vibrant time of year and soon the one that features the tallest waterfall in the state will be surrounded by beautiful fall foliage in Kentucky. Yahoo Falls in Kentucky is said to be the tallest waterfall in the Bluegrass and a hike to this spot is pure magic in the fall.

The Yahoo Falls trail is located in the beautiful Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area near Whitley City in McCreary County.
Alltrails/Alexa Buccieri
You could easily spend days exploring all of the scenic spots in this area and county and the trail to Yahoo Falls is a must when visiting. The scenery is lovely all year long, but of course fall offers vibrant color that makes it extra special.
The trail to the falls offers a wide range of scenery, including views of the river and rolling hills.
Alltrails/Draven Knight
If you visit in the fall, expect the colors to slowly begin to change by the beginning of October and typically peak around the end of the month. Of course this varies from year to year, so you may want to check with the DNR to see when colors are peaking in the area.
Directions to the trail can be found through the site linked below, but you may want to consider driving past the trailhead and parking at the nearby picnic area.
Alltrails/Dan Colantuona
Visitors recommend starting at this spot, which is a little closer to the falls and allows you to skip a section of the trail that is often known to be filled with mosquitos. Follow the trail and signs from here and when you get to the spot on the trail when you can go straight or turn left, you may want to choose to go left and head down the stairs to make things easier for further along the trail.

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After a short walk along the trail, you'll come to this magical spot where hopefully Yahoo Falls will drop from the overhang above.
Jonathan D. Goforth/Moment via Getty Images
Known as the tallest waterfall in Kentucky at 113 feet, Yahoo Falls is best viewed after heavy rainfall. Even if it's just a trickle, this is still a beautiful area to explore, especially during fall. Fall foliage in Kentucky doesn’t get better than this stunning area.
If you do visit after a rainfall, keep in mind the trail will be muddy and slippery in spots.
Jonathan D. Goforth/Moment via Getty Images
But the extra effort is worth it, as this waterfall hike in Kentucky deserves a spot on your bucket list. It really is as wonderful as it looks in these beautiful photos.
Visitors love to explore behind the falls and all around this area, but as with all trails, leave no trace and be respectful of this naturally beautiful area.
Jonathan D. Goforth/Moment via Getty Images
The entire trail is about 4 miles long, out and back, and is rated moderate. Dogs are allowed on the trail, as long as they are on a leash.
After the waterfall, don't miss out on a chance to walk farther and see Yahoo Arch.
Alltrails/Brian Brubaker
Natural arches are a fabulous feature of Kentucky, and this is a spectacular one. In fact, this entire trail offers a great sampling of the beauty of our state, especially when surrounded by fall colors in Kentucky.

Whether you plan a visit to this trail or another scenic spot in the Bluegrass State, the most important thing is that you get outside and enjoy the beautiful fall colors in Kentucky. Have you hiked to the tallest waterfall in Kentucky? Was it flowing during your visit? Let us know in the comments, and be sure to share your favorite place to see fall colors in Kentucky!

For more information on Yahoo Falls in Kentucky, including directions and more photos, visit its AllTrails listing. If you’re looking for downloadable maps, you can find them on AllTrails+.

And for more of the best scenic fall foliage trails in Kentucky, check out these seven magical hiking spots. And make sure you get ready for your adventures at REI.

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More to Explore

Yahoo Falls In Kentucky

Megan McDonald | August 04, 2023

What is the tallest waterfall in Kentucky?

The tallest waterfall in Kentucky is Yahoo Falls.  Yahoo Falls is a remarkable natural feature in the Daniel Boone National Forest in McCreary County, Kentucky. Renowned for being the tallest waterfall in the state, it plunges an impressive 113 feet into a scenic gorge below. The area around Yahoo Falls is densely wooded, adding to its beauty and charm. An accessible trail leads visitors to the top and the base of the falls, providing unique vantage points for nature lovers and photographers alike. This stunning waterfall embodies Kentucky's lush natural landscape and offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking tranquility and outdoor adventure.

Where are the best places to see the fall foliage in Kentucky?

Kentucky is home to several great spots to enjoy the vibrant hues of fall foliage. Here are some noteworthy locations:

  • Red River Gorge: Located in the Daniel Boone National Forest, the Red River Gorge offers stunning autumnal views with its sandstone cliffs, rock formations, and arches.
  • Cumberland Gap National Historical Park: This park's high elevation points provide a panoramic view of the changing colors.
  • Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area: Straddling the border between Kentucky and Tennessee, this area offers deciduous and evergreen trees, providing a wide spectrum of fall colors.
  • Natural Bridge State Resort Park: Home to a natural sandstone arch, the park has hiking trails that allow visitors to enjoy the colors up close.
  • Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest: Located south of Louisville, Bernheim has over 15,000 acres of land featuring a wide variety of tree species that put on a dazzling display in the fall.
  • Bluegrass Region: The scenic byways in this region, such as Old Frankfort Pike or the Bourbon Trail, are fantastic for fall color viewing.

Remember, the peak of fall color can vary each year based on weather conditions, so it's a good idea to check local resources for the best timing.

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