Kentucky's largest waterfall, Yahoo Falls, sits tall at 113 feet and resides on the Kentucky side of the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area in McCreary County. The falls are also a part of the Daniel Boone National Forest. This area is also part of the Cumberland Plateau and protects the Cumberland River and its tributaries.
Leaving the parking area, the hike to Yahoo Falls is relatively short (0.3ish miles) and includes a staircase leading down the hillside to a brief walk to the falls. There are alternative trails that take you to the falls. However, the trail to the left, leaving the parking area, is the most direct route. Many people dispute Yahoo Falls' claim to be the tallest waterfall; however, most do believe it is. No matter what you think, we can all agree that it is one of the most majestic waterfalls you can visit in Kentucky.
Once you get to the falls, you can explore under the overhang of the ridge and even walk behind the falls. In addition, there is a bridge crossing the street just below the falls, which makes for a great place to take a few photos.
After taking in the beauty of Yahoo Falls, consider the extra-mile hike to Yahoo Arch. As if you didn't need another reason to visit this Big South Fork National River and Recreation section, this natural beauty is just the cherry topping you didn't know you needed. We have been to many amazing locations throughout the Appalachian Region, and we would absolutely put this section of the park in our top ten must-visit Appalachian locations.
As you hike from Yahoo Falls to Yahoo Arch, you will be greeted with another small waterfall along Yahoo Creek. The trail then leads you right up to the arch, which has a small trail leading up to a small opening. For those wanting to do a bit more exploring, you can walk up this small path through the opening to get to the top of the arch.
Yahoo Falls and Yahoo Arch make for a perfect day trip that reflects the beauty of the Appalachian Region. If you are planning on visiting, please be sure to check your GPS and make sure that it is leading you to the parking area. We did have an issue with Apple Maps and had to choose our destination again. We recommend visiting in the Spring after a couple of days of rain; that way, you can see the falls at full flow.
Thanks for reading, and be sure to stay tuned for more waterfalls of the Appalachian Region.
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