The is the third in my series of posts about short hikes on the Kentucky side of the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, this one featuring the beautiful Princess Falls.

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The trail to Princess Falls is approximately 1.3 miles each way. There is very little elevation change along the way, which makes for an easy hike. Most of the trail is wide, but the last 0.2 miles to the falls gets quite narrow. Some areas may be muddy, so plan footwear accordingly. Also, there’s plenty of room to wade in the water under the falls if you’re so inclined.

Once you arrive at Princess Falls, the path diverges, and you have a chance to view the falls both from above and below.

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How to get there: The trailhead begins at the Yamacraw Day Use Parking Area, which is located in McCreary County off Kentucky Highway 92 between Monticello and Stearns. The parking area can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.

You won’t see any trail signs for Princess Falls until you’re nearly there, but follow the signs for Sheltowee Trace until see you see a smaller trail branching off to the right with a sign indicating Princess Falls near the wooden footbridge that crosses Lick Creek. If you cross the bridge, you missed the trail!

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There is also some excellent scenery along the way, including the riverside, a beautiful smaller waterfall (Julie Lynn Falls), and a wonderful view from the Lick Creek footbridge.

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I highly recommend this trail to anyone looking for a scenic hike that isn’t difficult!