Kentucky Falls: 3 Stunning Waterfalls!
Kentucky Falls is a bit of an adventure to reach, but the payoff is worth it!
If you’re up for scenic forest views, a couple of impressive waterfalls, and don’t mind a challenge, here’s everything you need to know.
Table of Contents
Directions to Kentucky Falls Trailhead
Pay attention, my friends! It was a bit confusing to get here. Don’t just blindly follow Google Maps.
- Start in Mapleton: Head down Sweet Creek Road toward Sweet Creek Falls.
- Continue on Sweet Creek Road: Keep going until you see a sign for Kentucky Falls. Here, take a left onto NF48.
- Note: NF48 eventually turns back into Sweet Creek Road, which can be confusing, but just stay on this road.
- When the road forks, go left onto NF23 and continue until you pass the North Fork Smith Trailhead (marked on Google Maps). You’re still on track.
- NF23 will eventually turn into NF919—from here, it’s about 3 miles to the trailhead.
- Road Conditions: The road is mostly narrow and paved, with only a short gravel section.
The Trail: What to Expect
Once you reach the small parking lot, you’ll find the trailhead directly opposite. The trail is well-maintained, though remote.
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It’s wise to pack everything you might need, including bear spray (wildlife sightings have been reported, including a potential cougar on AllTrails).
The trail begins with a downhill path, making it easier on the way in. About halfway along, you’ll come across the first waterfall, which is visible from the trail and offers a scenic break along your hike.
The surrounding forest is rich with ferns, wildflowers, mossy cliffsides, and rugged rock faces, all beneath a lush green canopy that keeps you shaded.
At Kentucky Falls: A Scenic Finish
Toward the end of the trail, you’ll reach the main attraction: two large waterfalls.
The first waterfall is located to the right and features a viewing deck. From here, a set of stairs leads down to a small trail where you’ll navigate a few creeks and rocks, eventually reaching a bench for a closer view of the final waterfall.
The falls are easy to see from the viewing points, making this spot ideal for photos or a quiet moment to take in the views.
The Trail Back
The hike back is the challenging part, as you’ll be facing a steady 2-mile uphill climb.
While there are no overly steep sections, it’s a bit of a workout, so plan for breaks on the return trip if needed.
Quick Tips:
- There’s only one vault toilet and nothing else.
- Cell service is nonexistent—Download the directions and maps beforehand.
- Bring bear spray; you’re out here!
- Follow the given directions because when we went here Google Maps wasn’t reliable and took us down insane roads!
- Read more about what to do near Florence, Oregon!
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