Kentucky is known for its beautiful waterfalls, laying claim to the Niagara of the South, in fact. But there’s more to the Bluegrass than one superlative waterfall; our state is teeming with tall falls and babbling cascades, and even some hidden waterfalls, too. In fact, nestled within a forest in Louisville, Kentucky, there is a waterfall that’s so hidden, almost nobody has seen it in person. Do we have your attention yet? Let’s chase a hidden waterfall in Kentucky, shall we?
This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Kentucky, but not many have actually seen it in person.
Collin Trainor/Google Local
Nestled within Fairmount Falls Park, the eponymous waterfall is one of the most hidden and difficult to access in Kentucky.
Dee R/Google Local
Why? Because entry to the elusive Fairmount Falls is limited to just three vehicles per day, and you have to obtain a permit beforehand from the Jefferson Memorial Forest Welcome Center.
Jake McConnell/Google Local Call the Welcome Center at (502) 368-5404 to learn more and request your permit.
But the permits are free, and the hike to the falls is actually quite well-paved and easy to navigate… you just need to request a permit in advance!
Dee R/Google Local
In fact, after a healthy rainfall when the water is flowing, Fairmount Falls can actually be seen from the trail just off the parking area.
Laura Morris/Google Local
In terms of the trek, this one mile, out-and-back trail is quite lovely, passing numerous smaller cascades and picturesque streams.
Dee R/Google Local
As for the falls themselves, Farimount Falls is a true woodland wonder; it’s a 70-foot tall cascade that pours perfectly over a rocky outcrop. In fact, adventurous waterfall chasers can, with care, even walk across at the top.
Jefferson Memorial Forest & Natural Areas/Facebook
And if you visit during a Kentucky cold snap, you might even get to see these gorgeous falls frozen, as if an Ice Queen cast a sudden spell, freezing the falls mid-air.
Wilderness Louisville/Facebook
The best things in life often take a bit of effort, and visiting Fairmount Falls does require some forethought and planning. But this beautiful hidden waterfall in Kentucky is pretty darn near perfect, and wholly worth seeking out.
Jake McConnell/Google Local
Have you seen this hidden waterfall in Kentucky before? Isn’t it beautiful?! Visit Wilderness Louisville to learn more and plan your trip to this hidden gem.
Collin Trainor/Google Local
Dee R/Google Local
Jake McConnell/Google Local
Call the Welcome Center at (502) 368-5404 to learn more and request your permit.
Laura Morris/Google Local
Jefferson Memorial Forest & Natural Areas/Facebook
Wilderness Louisville/Facebook
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