Turkey Foot Cascade - Short Loop

Overview. This was the last of four waterfalls we visited on this day. Though it was the least impressive, it was also a nice change of pace, as this felt extremely remote with deep leaf coverage on the trails and only one set of footprints were detectable at the cascade. That said, we had a lot of fun on this short loop - especially in crossing the streams by hopping rocks and balancing on downed trees.

Also, if you visit during or very soon after heavy rains in wet season, there are a number of small waterfalls to be found along the roads and the streams. Keep your eyes open and stop for a spell to enjoy.

Route Type | Loop
Total Distance | 0.9 miles
Overall Difficulty | Moderate
US Forest Service Map of Turkey Foot Recreation Area
Turkey Foot Cascade | 37.463964, -83.915792
Trailhead at Campsite #15 | 37.467272, -83.916515

Trailhead. We hiked using the spur trail that joins the loop from campsite #15. Parking is plentiful in the day use area, but you may need to park short on the road during high water times, as there is a stream crossing the roadway. [map]

Trail navigation. From the day use parking lot, head south and find the path leading to the upper loop on the roadway. You should see campsite #15 (use the GPS link above if needed) and the trail is just to the left of the site. Continue up and through a couple other campsites before making your way up some switchbacks. Reach the intersection with the Turkey Foot Loop Trail and turn right (south). From here, it’s 0.15 miles to the top of the cascade. To drop down and view the cascade from below, retrace your steps maybe 50-60 yards to find a user trail/secondary drainage. Walk down and then follow the rock face to find the bottom of the cascade. From here, we continued down a drainage to the creeks to shorten the trip and have a little fun streamside. Continue around to find the lot.

Best in Winter and Spring. Kentucky’s waterfalls are best during wet season from Winter through Spring - a.k.a. waterfall season. Ideally, come when the ground is wet and within a day or two of the last substantial rain or snow. Also, waterfalls are magnificent after a long cold spell with several days of temperatures below freezing.

CAUTION - Cliffs. Be careful to avoid getting too close the edge of cliffs, as this is a major cause of serious injury and death among hikers.

CAUTION - Poisonous snakes. Timber rattlesnakes and copperheads are the most common poisonous snakes in the area. Stay alert, as snakes are commonly found taking in the warmth of the trail. Give them a wide berth or wait for them to move off the trail.

CAUTION - Bears. Black bears are growing in number throughout Daniel Boone National Forest. Be sure to follow bear safety precautions. [Be Bear Aware by US Forest Service]