Amos Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.8 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Amos Falls
Amos Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into the forests of eastern Kentucky and managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Daniel Boone National Forest. Its compact, mossy drop and quiet surroundings make it a favorite for hikers seeking a peaceful, less-crowded stop — perfect for a short nature break or photography. The feeling is intimate and wooded rather than dramatic, which adds to the sense of solitude that draws people off the beaten path. Access to the falls is straightforward: a short out-and-back hike leads through mixed hardwoods and shady understory to the water. Because the site sits on national forest lands managed by the USFS, visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles and respect seasonal conditions and trail signage while enjoying the serenity of the area.
The Setting
Amos Falls sits at 1,086 feet within Daniel Boone National Forest, fed by the Cumberland River, in the foothills of Kentucky.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Cumberland Falls (68 ft) lies 4.9 miles to the west. Also nearby: Dog Slaughter Falls (15 ft, 3.8 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.8-mile out-and-back trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Amos Falls is an easy 1.8-mile out-and-back route with roughly 200 feet of elevation gain, suitable for most hikers and families. The path meanders through forested terrain and includes some uneven roots and natural tread, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Managed by the U.S. Forest Service within Daniel Boone National Forest, the route’s gentle climbs and short distance make it a relaxed half-day outing for those looking to combine a short hike with waterfall viewing.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Amos Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Amos Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically more active due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Daniel Boone National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
The area around the waterfall may be slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid climbing on wet rocks. Be aware of wildlife, including snakes.
Current Water Conditions
3,690 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 99 years of record
3.59 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CUMBERLAND RIVER AT CUMBERLAND FALLS, KY (8 km away).
Today
Roaring
3690 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
4104 cfs
9/10Sun
Roaring
4032 cfs
9/10Mon
Roaring
3744 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
3960 cfs
9/10Wed
Roaring
5268 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
5746 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to mid April, peaking in March.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Rockholds hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 81 feet through Amos Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,099 feet.
The ground changes about 50 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 64 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,099 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 81 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Amos Falls is located near the Daniel Boone National Forest in Kentucky. Specific directions may vary, so it is recommended to use GPS coordinates or consult local maps for the most accurate route.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may be located along nearby roads or at small pull-off areas. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Elevation
1,086 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.823851° N, -84.259015° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring or after rainfall for the best water flow. Bring sturdy shoes, as the trail may be muddy or uneven in places.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This easy 1.8 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Holiday Inn Express Williamsburg by IHG
Red Roof Inn & Suites Corbin
Pine Mountain Inn
The Inn at Beulah Farm - The Coop
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
GROVE
8.5 miles away · 99 sites
Overview Grove Campground is perched on a forested ridge above Laurel River Lake in Kentucky's Daniel Boone National Forest. The lake, fed by the Laurel River, is considered one of the most scenic lakes in the state. Boating, fishing, hiking and biking are greatly enjoyed by campers.Recreation Hikers, horseback riders and mountain bikers can trek more than 600 miles of road and trail in Daniel Boone National Forest. Duff Branch, Oak Branch, Fishing Point and Singing Hills Trails can all be access
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Daniel Boone National Forest, Red River Gorge, and other hiking trails in the area.
Wildlife
The area is home to various birds, small mammals, and insects. Visitors may also encounter snakes, so caution is advised.
Cities near Amos Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Amos Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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