Published: October 22, 2009 08:55 am      

Moonbow Trail Trek

Cumberland Falls offering scenic, challenging hike

Special to The Times-Tribune

The 19th annual Moonbow Trail Trek, which will be held Saturday, Nov. 7 at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, offers nature lovers the opportunity to combine a challenging hike with a chance to view some beautiful scenery.

Cumberland Falls is called the “Niagara of the South” because of its 125-foot-wide curtain of water. Sometimes at night, when conditions are right, mists from the falls produce a faint rainbow, known as a moonbow. The next moonbow may be visible after dark Nov. 1-4.

The Moonbow Trail Trek takes hikers during daylight hours to see the falls and other natural formations, including cascading streams, tower cliffs and house-sized rock formations. There is a 10-mile trek for the most adventurous hikers and a 4.5-mile trek for those with less experience. The 10-mile hike departs at 8:30 a.m., and the 4.5 mile trek leaves at 10 a.m. 

Availability is limited and participants must be pre-registered by Oct. 30. Participation is limited to the first 100 people to register.

Check-in stations will be staffed throughout the hike and sweeps will be conducted to ensure safety. The Moonbow Trail Trek is not recommended for children under 10 years old or solo hikers. The cost is $15 per person and includes a T-shirt. Participants should bring a daypack, hiking boots, extra socks, a flashlight, batteries, rain gear, a first aid kit, a warm jacket, and enough food and water to last six to eight hours.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park near Corbin has a lodge, cottages, the Riverview Restaurant, a campground, and hiking trails. For more information and to register for the Moonbow Trail Trek, call 1-800-325-0063 or 606-528-4121 or email Bret Smitley at BretA.Smitley@ky.gov.