Flat Lick Falls - Upper Loop

Overview. This is a fantastic waterfall with a couple added bonuses. First, it’s handicap accessible with a nicely paved path and sturdy observation deck with a terrific view of the falls. Second, there is a small hole in the rock near the edge of the top of the falls that you can sit next to when the water is right. This is probably the coolest thing I’ve seen in a long, long while.

Note that there is a great deal more trail in the area, but we made this a short, but sweet visit on a day when we hiked to four waterfalls in the area. We’ll certainly return for a more complete exploration, but this little hike was awesome just the same.

Route Type | Loop
Total Distance | 0.4 miles
Overall Difficulty | Easy, Handicap Accessible
Map of Flat Lick Falls Recreation Area
(please email if you find a better quality map)
Observation Deck | 37.370899, -83.940948
Top of Flat Lick Falls | 37.370927, -83.940147

Trailhead. The trailhead is at the end of the parking lot nearest the picnic shelter and restrooms. [map]

Trail navigation. Take the paved trail out to the observation deck. From there, turnaround and move toward the top of the falls on the dirt user trail. It’s best to go a bit upstream before coming back down on the creek to reach the top of the falls. This may be inaccessible after heavy rains, but it was just right when we were there to walk on dry rock and enjoy the drainage hole (pictured below). Take your time to enjoy a walk upstream where a number of cascades exist. Return to the parking lot using any of the user trails leading back from the creek.

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 nearby Daniel Boone National Forest. Be sure to follow bear safety precautions. [Be Bear Aware by US Forest Service]