Top
Pine Island Double Falls

After a night of boondocking, I set out for my first hike to Pine Island Double Falls in the Daniel Boone National Forest of south-central Kentucky.

After reaching the trailhead on a confusing web of dusty forest service roads, I came across an unmarked trailhead for the waterfall. Thankfully, the trail was fairly worn and easy to follow, winding through dense hardwood forests and over bubbling streams.

As I made my way deeper into the forest, the sounds of civilization faded away, and I was enveloped in the peaceful quiet of nature. The only sounds were the chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves under my feet. Eventually, the trail started to descend sharply down into the Pine Island Creek valley, and although it was still a fairly wide path, care was required to avoid muddy, sloppy pits and the edges of steep hillsides.

I then heard the telltale sounds of a waterfall. A little over a half-mile from the trailhead, I came across Pine Island Double Falls, and they did not disappoint. Water tumbled over the rocky sandstone cliffs down 41 feet into deep ravines, creating a remarkable and unique sight that can’t be beaten. I sat down on a nearby rock and watched the falls for a while, taking in the beauty of the surroundings.

After a while, I reluctantly tore myself away and began the hike back to the trailhead. The walk back was slower, partly because of the climbs but also because of the bounty of wildflowers that grabbed the banks of a seasonal stream.

As I walked, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a beautiful and peaceful place.

As an added bonus, down the road from the Pine Island Double Falls trailhead are the Daylight Twin Arches, a pair of roadside sandstone shelters.

Be sure to check out Pine Island Double Falls, our latest destination, for more information on this unique natural area in Kentucky.

Leave a Comment