About Princess Falls

Princess Falls may be modest in height, but it delivers a charming and peaceful waterfall experience in the Daniel Boone National Forest of McCreary County. The 15-foot cascade slides over a sandstone ledge on Jellico Creek into a clear pool surrounded by hemlock and rhododendron — a serene spot that feels far removed from the nearby Cumberland Falls crowds.

Located just a short drive from Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Princess Falls is the perfect complement to a big-waterfall day in McCreary County. The easy trail and short distance make it ideal for families, and the quiet creek environment is a welcome contrast to the thundering main falls. Few visitors know about Princess Falls, making solitude essentially guaranteed.

Trail Highlights

• Secluded 15-foot cascade in a peaceful hemlock and rhododendron hollow
• Located minutes from Cumberland Falls for an easy day of waterfall hopping
• Easy, short trail suitable for all ages and fitness levels
• Near-guaranteed solitude compared to the busy Cumberland Falls area
• Clear sandstone-bottomed pool perfect for wading in summer

Trail Description

From the trailhead off a Daniel Boone National Forest access road near Cumberland Falls, follow the trail along Jellico Creek upstream. The path winds through hemlock and rhododendron before opening into a small clearing above the falls.

The falls drop 15 feet over a sandstone ledge into a clear shallow pool. The surrounding hollow is quiet and shaded, with the only sound being the water and birdsong. Return the same way, then head to nearby Cumberland Falls for dramatic contrast.

Tips & What to Bring

• Combine with Cumberland Falls for a complete McCreary County waterfall experience
• The pool is shallow and safe for young children to wade
• A USFS map is helpful — the access road to the trailhead is unmarked
• Best flow in spring after winter snowmelt and spring rains
• A perfect warm-up hike before the longer Yahoo Falls trail

Getting There

From Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, drive east on KY-90 and turn onto a Daniel Boone National Forest access road toward Jellico Creek. The trailhead is at a small pull-off. GPS: 36.8500, -84.3000.