Chasing Waterfalls: Best Nearby Waterfalls to Visit During Your Stay at Sunset Rock Cabin

Apr 3

If you're planning a getaway to the Red River Gorge, you're in for stunning natural beauty, endless outdoor adventures, and cozy accommodations like our place at Sunset Rock Cabin—the perfect retreat after a day of exploring. While bad weather might detour your plans for climbing or hiking, the cool thing is that when it rains, the waterfalls here come to life!

When showers pass through, they enhance the already breathtaking waterfalls near Red River Gorge, making them even more powerful and picturesque. Whether you're looking for an easy hike or a hidden gem, here are my recommendations for the best waterfalls near Sunset Rock Cabin that you won’t want to miss.

1. Creation Falls

📍 Location: Along the Rock Bridge Trail, Daniel Boone National Forest

One of the most popular waterfalls in Red River Gorge, Creation Falls is a must-see, especially after a fresh rain. Located along the Rock Bridge Trail, this stunning cascade flows over a smooth rock ledge into a serene pool below. The hike is an easy 1.5-mile loop, making it perfect for families or those looking for a shorter trek. The Rock Bridge trailhead is located only about 15 minutes from Sunset Rock Cabin, so it’s very close!

Pro tip: Continue past the falls to see Rock Bridge Arch, one of the few natural bridges in Kentucky that spans over water!

2. Horseshoe Falls (and Nellie’s Falls)

📍 Location: Muir Valley Nature Preserve, a short hike past the “Bruise Brothers” climbing wall

Horseshoe Falls is an overlooked waterfall in Red River Gorge that is often missed by hikers because it’s located in an area mostly used by rock climbers. Don’t worry, no climbing skills or equipment is necessary to see this one! Best after a day or two of rain, this waterfall is named for its horseshoe-shaped rock formation over which water flows gracefully.

The hike to Horseshoe Falls is moderately challenging, as it follows a good trail that weaves through lush forest and along some rocky terrain. It’s best visited after a good rain, when the water flow is strongest and most dramatic.

Pro tip: Muir Valley does have a parking fee and waiver that will need to be filled out before hiking their trails. At the trailhead they have a large map you can take photos of as well that points out arches, rock walls, and other waterfalls.

Nellie’s Falls is also one worth checking out, as it stands very tall in a beautiful rock shelter. It is located few miles in the opposite direction of Horseshoe Falls, so depending on the fitness level of your group, you may want to pick one or the other to visit instead of trying to see both.

3. Bell Falls

📍 Location: Right off the road on the 715 loop through the gorge

Bell Falls is a roadside waterfall tucked into a small rock shelter. There is a pulloff near it, and great for a quick stop if you’re driving the 715 loop around the gorge.

It’s easy enough to walk up to the base as well, just be careful of slick rocks!

4. Copperas Falls

📍 Location: Off an unmarked trail near Copperas Creek, Red River Gorge

For those looking for a more secluded and adventurous waterfall, Copperas Falls is a hidden gem. This off-the-beaten-path waterfall requires a bit of route-finding, as it’s not on an official marked trail, but the effort is well worth it. This has been the site of several lost hiker incidents, as there is little to no cell signal here, and the trails are not marked in any way. Please get a map or have a GPS and be prepared if you attempt to find this one. If you use a site like Alltrails, be sure to download maps for offline use.

*Copperas Falls, frozen solid in the winter of 2018.*

The hike is about 3.5 miles round-trip, following Copperas Creek through lush forest terrain. After heavy rain, the falls transform into a mesmerizing cascade, surrounded by moss-covered rock walls.

Pro tip: Since this trail involves creek crossings, wear waterproof hiking boots or sandals!

5. Broke Leg Falls

📍 Location: Menifee County, about 40 minutes from Red River Gorge

If you're up for a scenic drive, Broke Leg Falls is a fantastic stop just outside of Red River Gorge. This beautiful 60-foot waterfall tumbles over layers of sandstone, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting.

Unlike many other waterfalls in the Gorge, Broke Leg Falls is easy to access. A short, well-maintained trail leads directly to the falls, making it an excellent option for those who want a quick nature escape without a strenuous hike.

Pro tip: This area was heavily impacted by a tornado in 2012, but the natural beauty remains—bring a camera!

Why Waterfalls are Best After Rain

While rain might seem like a reason to stay inside your cozy cabin rental in Red River Gorge, it's actually the best time to explore waterfalls! Many of the area's seasonal falls flow strongest right after rainfall, creating a dramatic and unforgettable experience. Plus, the misty, overcast conditions make for perfect photography lighting!

Book Your Stay at Sunset Rock Cabin

After a day of chasing waterfalls, there's nothing better than returning to a cozy cabin retreat with all the comforts of home. Sunset Rock Cabin offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, with a stunning rocky bluff view that’s especially breathtaking at sunset.

Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a weekend adventure, or a peaceful escape into nature, Sunset Rock Cabin is the perfect place to stay while exploring the best waterfalls in Red River Gorge.

📅 Book your stay today and start planning your ultimate Red River Gorge waterfall adventure!

Mike Wilkinson

Based in Kentucky, Mike's passion is creating documentary-style films and photography related to outdoor adventure, travel, and conservation, but it can’t be all red bulls and high-fives, so some tourism and commercial work fill in the gaps.

Mike is an avid adventurer, having summited Kilimanjaro twice, helping out on the local SAR team, and routinely establishing first ascents in both rock and ice.