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Hike to Tioga Falls

West Point, Kentucky

4.7/5
based on 3 reviews

Details

Distance

1.9 miles

Elevation Gain

354 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Edward Webb

Not far from Louisville, Kentucky is a 130 foot tall, picturesque waterfall on the land of Fort Knox

Recently the trail to Tioga Falls has re-opened even though they are still doing trail restoration. This is short little 1.9 mile out and back trail is perfect for the family and has one of the best waterfalls if you live anywhere near Louisville, Kentucky.

Now while there is about 350 feet of elevation gain it is over a good distance and shouldn't deter anyone from hiking out to Tioga Falls. On the way there you're going to pass over a couple railroad tracks that are part of the "Bridges to the Past" which is part of the old Louisville to Nashville turnpike. 

Once you start making your way to Tioga Falls you'll see the river and hear the falls; and once you're there you won't want to leave. Just remember that the falls reside on land that belongs to Fort Knox and the U.S. Army often has patrols through the woods, so take "Leave No Trace" to the extreme here.

This hike is a must-do at any time of the year, it is especially great in the fall or early spring before the Kentucky heat makes an appearance. 

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Features

Fitness
Chillin
Photography
Running
Snowshoeing
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
River
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Hike to Tioga Falls Reviews

This is a great partner hike if you're exploring outside of Louisville, the rolling hills and cobblestone creek beds make for a scenic drive to and from the trail head.

This waterfall wasn’t originally on my list of hikes to do in KY, but I’m so glad I did it. The tiers are what make the waterfall lovely. It’s best to go in spring or summer for a heavier flow. The hike itself is easy - only about 2 miles round trip with not much elevation gain. The area itself is pretty isolated, so I’d either hike on a day in which there will likely be people around and / or bring a friend.

The hike to Tioga Falls is not the most scenic hike you will ever find, but it is quiet and charming. There are not too many crowds and the forest surrounding the trail is very nice. The trail is short enough to not pose any serious physical challenge, but also long enough to let your mind wander and let you feel like you are getting some exercise. The waterfall at the end is nice, but if water levels are low, the falls will be more of a trickle of water. Go after a good rainstorm and you will not be disappointed.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

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Explore Historic Locust Grove

William F. Miles Lakes: Coppiced Woods Trail

Explore Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park

Backpack the Two Lakes Loop Trail, Hoosier NF