Thankfully, the natural beauty of Kentucky is accessible in many ways and you don’t always have to hike for miles to experience it. You can witness scenic overlooks and rushing waterfalls in just a few steps and oftentimes there is more adventure in the area if you’re looking for more thrills and time in nature. Near the town of McKee within Daniel Boone National Forest is a short and sweet waterfall hike in Kentucky that offers both accessible views and a scenic hike in the woods. The hike to Flat Lick Falls is a short waterfall hike in Kentucky that is ideal for any age and ability and takes you to another world, right in the heart of Kentucky.

Situated in a beautiful area of Kentucky, Flat Lick Falls is a popular spot for unforgettable scenery that is very accessible.
Alltrails/Brandon Beatty
At the trailhead you will find plenty of open space, a large shelter and even nice restrooms (that may be open seasonally, so keep that in mind). You can make an afternoon of your visit with a picnic or stop by for an easy waterfall hike in Kentucky.
One of the best things about this trail is that the views of the waterfall are very accessible.
Alltrails/Brandon Beatty
It's just a short walk along a paved trail and even in the winter, this area is beautiful and relaxing.
Soon you'll come to an overlook that gives you a glimpse of the falls.
Alltrails/Brandon Beatty
Flat Lick Falls varies in its flow throughout the year and is best viewed after rainfall or melting snow. In the driest stretches of summer, there may not be much to see in terms of a waterfall, but it's still a nice little hiking trail.

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If you want to continue to adventure beyond the overlook, you can take the dirt path to the waterfall.
Alltrails/Brandon Beatty
The trail takes you along interesting rock formations, a variety of plant life, and eventually to the top of the waterfall where you can carefully walk across. With so much natural beauty, it's no mystery why this is considered one of the most scenic hikes in Kentucky.
There are views of the falls throughout the walk, so don't forget to snap a few photos.
Alltrails/Tim Martin
Even this stretch of hike is easy enough for children and dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash. And just like any trail in Kentucky, leave no trace during your visit.
Once you reach the falls, you can explore the area around it and view the waterfall from different angles.
Alltrails/Llede Romero
Always exercise caution and be extra careful on slippery rocks and muddy slopes. But also be sure to take your time and appreciate the unique, magical quality of this area of the forest.
This shot from behind the waterfall truly gives you a sense of the otherworldy atmopshere of the area.
Photo Courtesy of Zack Hill Photography / @zack.hill.photography
Listen to the rush of the falls, gaze at the blue water, and breathe in the fresh air along this easy waterfall hike in Kentucky.

The short walk and hike around Flat Lick Falls is an easy waterfall trail in Kentucky that should be on your list of must-see spots in our state. With so much natural beauty in this area of Kentucky, you can choose to enjoy this short and easy hike and then turn up the excitement with more adventure. Have you enjoyed this short waterfall hike in Kentucky? What is your favorite short hike in our state? Let us know in the comments!

For more information on Flat Lick Falls, including directions and more reviews of the area, check out All Trails.

And for another easy hike in Kentucky that has beautiful scenery, check out this overlook trail in the Big South Fork Area.

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short waterfall hike in Kentucky

Beth C. | March 10, 2021

What are some of the best hikes in Kentucky?

Now that you've learned about Flat Lick Falls, you're ready to embark on some other stunning trails in the Bluegrass State. There are so many to explore in every corner of the state, and each trail is unique. However, if you're looking for some of the best hikes in Kentucky, you'll want to start with any of the following: Copperas Falls, Sky Bridge, Yahoo Falls Trail, Rock Bridge Trail, Auxier Ridge Trail, Eagle Falls Trail, Gray's Arch Trail Loop, Van Hook Falls, and Cane Creek Valley. Curious to learn more? Check out why these trails are considered some of the most beautiful hikes in Kentucky.

Are there any secret Kentucky waterfalls?

With its dense forests and rugged mountainscapes, Kentucky is home to incredible waterfall scenery. If you're looking to explore some of the lesser-known falls in the state, there are several for you to explore. Some secret Kentucky waterfalls include McCammon Falls, Tioga Falls, Amos Falls, Flat Lick Falls, Van Hook Falls, and Anglin Falls. Have you explored any of these under-the-radar Kentucky waterfalls? Or, if you're up for a bit of a drive, why not check out our ultimate waterfall road trip in Kentucky? You're in for an outdoor adventure you won't soon forget!

Does Kentucky have any natural wonders?

If you're someone who loves exploring natural wonders, you won't be disappointed by Kentucky's offerings. From sand caves to fascinating rock formations and breathtaking overlooks, Kentucky is truly blessed with natural beauty. Some of the most famous natural wonders in Kentucky include Black Mountain, Red River Gorge, Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Yahoo Falls, Cumberland Falls, Pine Island Double Falls, Mammoth Cave, Carter Caves, Natural Bridge, and Kentucky Lake. Learn more about these fascinating natural attractions in Kentucky and what makes them so unique.

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Flat Lick Falls Recreational Area, McKee, KY 40447, USA