Everyone has a different method for enjoying total relaxation and it can involve everything from going for a long walk to hopping on a motorcycle, to curling up with a good book. If you love the outdoors, your secret to peace and quiet may involve a boat and a paddle and heading off to find hidden gems in nature. Kentucky is ideal for this and if you already enjoy kayaking as a hobby — or would like to — you’ll want to add this spot to your list of places to visit. Near Lake Cumberland, you can paddle to hidden waterfalls in Kentucky that are scenic, remote, and the perfect place to seek relaxation. Ready for a beautiful waterfall adventure in the Bluegrass? Let’s go!

Lake Cumberland is a massive body of water that is well-known for boating, fishing, and other activities, but it is also filled with countless hidden spots that are downright beautiful.
Laurie/Flickr
While the most popular spots on Lake Cumberland tend to center around marinas and other well-known features, it's not too difficult to find a section of the lake that is much quieter, especially on an overcast day.
Located near Monticello, Kentucky is an area of the lake called Twyford Point.
Laurie/Flickr
At the end of Twyfords Point Road, you'll find a section of the lake where you can put in a kayak and take off on an adventure throughout this more remote part of the lake.
All of the scenery surrounding Lake Cumberland is beautiful, which is what makes it so popular.
Laurie/Flickr
This particular section is great for kayaks and other paddling excursions, with typically calm waters and hidden waterfalls to seek out.

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As you paddle from Twyford Point, you'll come upon Garner Branch Falls, which is only accessible by boat.
Mark Gambalie/Google Maps
When conditions are favorable, water rushes over the limestone, making for one of the most picturesque cascades in the Bluegrass region.
Be sure to paddle up close and take in the view, while feeling that mist from the falls.
Frank Kehren/Flickr
As with any outdoor adventure, always exercise caution and avoid this area after flooding. But when you do reach it on a perfect day, take your time and enjoy the peace of Mother Nature's sound machine.
After visiting Garner Branch Falls, head back out and try and locate the nearby Hidden Falls.
Deborah Rogers/Google Maps
These two waterfalls are fairly close together on the lake and the entire trip to see both is about two miles of paddling. At both you're sure to find a picture-perfect cascade! Lake Cumberland has all sorts of hidden spots like these, so be sure to branch out from the crowded areas and see what hidden gems you can discover.

Some places that are not easy to reach are still worth the effort and these hidden waterfalls in Kentucky are proof of that. Paddle to these scenic spots along Lake Cumberland and enjoy one of many relaxing adventures in the Bluegrass. Did you know about these waterfalls on Lake Cumberland? What are your favorite hidden waterfalls in Kentucky? Tell us about them in the comments or submit them through our Nominations Page.

And for more information on Garner Branch Falls and other waterfalls in Kentucky, check out the Kentucky Waterfalls website.

Still wondering about “waterfalls near me” in the Lake Cumberland area? What about a waterfall on Lake Cumberland that doesn’t require a kayak? Read more about 76 Falls in our previous article… it’s a stunner of a waterfall that’s absolutely worth seeking out!

If you’re still in the mood for some more of the great Kentucky outdoors, check out this video:

 

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Waterfalls near me

Sarah M. | March 02, 2022

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Whether you want to ogle epic rock formations, sweeping grand canyons, lush forests, or winsome waterfalls, the best way to experience the beauty of the Bluegrass State is out on the trails. There are so many wonderful hikes in Kentucky, however, that choosing one can be quite a difficult task! So we put together this list of 12 amazing hikes in Kentucky, one for each month of the year. We timed the trails to really maximize the splendor of each season, and think you should definitely make a point to hit each of these trails over the next year!

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Lake Cumberland, Kentucky, USA