About Dog Slaughter Falls

Despite its grim name, Dog Slaughter Falls is one of Kentucky's most beloved swimming holes — a 15-foot curtain waterfall that feeds a wide, clear pool perfect for cooling off on a hot Kentucky summer day. Located in the Daniel Boone National Forest in Whitley County, the trail follows Dog Slaughter Creek through a classic Kentucky gorge of sandstone cliffs and hemlock forest.

The gorge scenery is spectacular even before you reach the falls, with towering sandstone walls lining the creek corridor and rhododendron thickets creating a tunnel of green. The falls are most impressive in spring but maintain good flow through summer. Weekend crowds can be large in July and August — a weekday visit is strongly recommended.

Trail Highlights

• 15-foot curtain waterfall with a wide, swimmable plunge pool
• Classic Daniel Boone National Forest sandstone gorge scenery
• Rhododendron blooms peak in late May and early June
• Popular summer swimming destination — weekdays are far less crowded
• Well-maintained trail with moderate terrain suitable for most hikers

Trail Description

From the trailhead on KY-896, follow the Dog Slaughter Creek trail into the gorge. The trail immediately enters a sandstone canyon with walls rising 50-80 feet on both sides. The creek runs clear over a sandstone bedrock bottom.

After 1.5 miles the gorge narrows and the falls come into view around a final bend. The 15-foot wide curtain drops into a pool 30 feet across — plenty of room for swimming. Sandstone ledges around the pool provide sunbathing spots. Return the same way.

Tips & What to Bring

• Arrive before 9am on summer weekends to secure a parking spot — the lot fills quickly
• Bring water shoes or sandals for wading and swimming in the pool
• The gorge walls provide shade — the hike stays cooler than open terrain
• No restroom facilities at the trailhead — plan accordingly
• Leave No Trace: pack out everything you bring in — this area gets very heavy use

Getting There

From Corbin, KY, take US-25W South to KY-896. Turn right and follow KY-896 into the Daniel Boone National Forest. The Dog Slaughter trailhead is on the left approximately 3.5 miles from US-25W. GPS: 36.7656, -84.2344.