Eagle Falls Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features River/Creek · Views · Waterfall

Eagle Falls Trail is a "lollipop" loop located in the Cumberland Falls State Park. As the name would suggest, the main feature of this trail is Eagle Falls, where Eagle Creek falls about 50 feet to the Cumberland River. The trailhead is located on the west side of the river, opposite the main viewing area for Cumberland Falls. There is limited parking at the trailhead, so access can be a challenge during busy summer weekends.

The trail starts out alongside the Cumberland River above the falls, but quickly starts climbing the cliffs along the side of the river with several beautiful views of Cumberland Falls. The trail can be steep in places, but most of these steep areas have been fitted with stairs to make the climb easier. About 1/3 of a mile from the trailhead, a spur branches off to the left and climbs the hill to a purported viewpoint over the canyon. Unfortunately trees grow quickly, and the view is often blocked by vegetation.

About 0.5 miles from the trailhead, the trail splits into the loop portion of the hike. For the quickest access to the falls, follow the trail to the right. To the left, the trail climbs up and over a hill, then down the other side to connect with Eagle Creek. The trail then follows the creek downstream, passing several areas with nice spots for wading or playing in the creek.

Once you reach the mouth of the creek, another trail spur leads to the bottom of the falls. The spur to the falls is a steep hike down the cliff, but again stairs are in place for ease and safety. At the base of the cliff are numerous boulders or sandy areas to sit and enjoy the view. At the base of Eagle Falls is a series of small shallow pools before the water spills into the Cumberland River. Cumberland Falls can again be seen from this area.

On the way back to the trailhead, the trail runs along the side of a cliff in places, but railings are in place to help prevent a fall. This trail is very popular for the views and waterfalls and is heavily traveled during peak season. The heavy traffic combined with regular maintenance helps guarantee that the trail is well-worn and easy to follow.

Typical Eastern forest vegetation and fauna. Oaks, maples, pines, rhododendrons. Numerous wildflowers and birds.