Yahoo Falls Trail, Kentucky

If you’re searching for a short, beginner-friendly hike that delivers a big natural payoff, Yahoo Falls Trail in the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area is a beautiful place to start. Located near Whitley City, this 1.5-mile loop is an easy, shaded path that meanders through hardwood forest and ends in a jaw-dropping encounter with Kentucky’s tallest waterfall. It’s ideal for easing into hiking while still feeling like you’ve uncovered something truly special.

A Trail with a Waterfall Surprise

Yahoo Falls Trail doesn’t ask much of you: just a comfortable pair of shoes and a sense of curiosity. From the trailhead, a gentle descent leads into a forest rich with ferns, wildflowers and wooden footbridges. The highlight comes quickly: a 113-foot waterfall that feels more like a secret discovery than a typical viewpoint. You’ll hear it before you see it, cascading down a rock face that invites quiet awe and plenty of photos.

Better yet, the trail allows you to experience the falls from multiple angles including the rare opportunity to walk behind the curtain of water for a unique, misty perspective.

Highlights Worth the Walk

Yahoo Falls Itself:
At 113 feet, this is Kentucky’s tallest waterfall, especially striking in the spring when flow is at its strongest.

Behind-the-Falls Path:
A gentle offshoot of the main trail brings you directly behind the waterfall — a short detour that adds a bit of wonder and cool mist on warm days.

Forest Ambience:
Birdsong, leaf-filtered light and the scent of earth and moss make the forest walk just as rewarding as the falls.

Trail Details at a Glance

  • Location: Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area, near Whitley City, KY
  • Coordinates: 36.6606° N, 84.6308° W
  • Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
  • Difficulty: Easy — suitable for beginners and kids (for what easy means read our guide on trail difficulty ratings)
  • Elevation Gain: ~150 feet
  • Parking: Free at the trailhead
  • Restrooms: Primitive toilets at the parking area
  • Dog-Friendly: Yes, leashed pets welcome
  • Best Time to Visit: Spring (for waterfall flow) or fall (for foliage)
  • Entry Fee: None

Bring Along

While the trail is gentle, a few smart essentials will help you get the most out of your hike:

  • Lightweight hiking or walking shoes (the path can be damp)
  • A refillable water bottle
  • Bug spray (especially in late spring and summer)
  • A compact camera or smartphone — the waterfall’s a must-shoot
  • A towel or light jacket if you plan to stand behind the falls

Why Yahoo Falls Belongs on Your First-Hike List

Yahoo Falls Trail manages to pack a lot into a short distance — shaded woods, wooden bridges, cliff views and a waterfall experience that feels cinematic. It’s the kind of hike that’s gentle on your body but generous in beauty, perfect for beginners or anyone needing a break from the digital world. You won’t need a map, a guide or even hiking experience — just a little time and a willingness to be wowed.

If you’re starting your hiking journey, Yahoo Falls is the kind of trail that makes you want to keep going.