Yahoo Falls – McCreary County

As the highest waterfall in Kentucky, 113-foot Yahoo Falls is well worth the 5.0 miles out and back moderately easy hike in the heart of the Big South Fork National Recreation Area. Jaw-dropping views can be found from either the base or behind the falls as they drop into the pool below and cascade in front of one of the park’s largest rock houses. A network of trails surrounds the impressive falls, and the water volume is at its best in the spring.

GPS Coordinates: 36.769N -84.51056W

Travel to Whitley City via US HWY 27. If driving North on HWY 27, turn left onto HWY 700 and drive @ 4.5 miles. Turn right onto Yahoo Falls Road (well-marked with signs). Follow Yahoo Falls Road to the parking area.

Things to know before you go:
Before heading out to explore The Kentucky Wildlands Waterfall Trail, it’s a good idea to check on current trail conditions, waterfall volume and any restrictions concerning a particular waterfall’s access trail. For Instance, some trails are not pet friendly mainly for their own protection, as well as that of the local plant and animal life. Some waterfalls are also best visited during the rainier months of the year, while others are exceptional all year-round, with wintertime offering its own magical scenic backdrop.

CAUTION: Low lying areas are prone to flooding, so be alert for flooding when driving, camping or crossing streams in this area. Swift currents and undertows can make swimming and wading very hazardous.

Photo By Greg Davis