Dan Wagner

Hike to Pine Island Double Falls

Pine Island Double Falls, arguably one of the most scenic waterfalls in the Bluegrass State, forms as two distinct streams merge and cascade over a limestone ledge into a beautiful bluish-green plunge pool along Pine Island Branch. Tucked away within the Daniel Boone National Forest, the 40-foot-tall waterfall sees far less foot traffic compared to others in the region, yet consistently earns a place on lists celebrating Kentucky's most stunning waterfalls. Getting to the falls is easy.

Trailhead elevation 1,115'

Water throughout

Don't miss the unmarked junction to reach the falls

Hike to Pine Island Double Falls

Hikers can locate the unmarked trailhead for Pine Island Double Falls along the gravel Double Falls Trailhead Road, near coordinates 37.075266, -84.288724. Parking space for one or two cars is available at the trailhead, with additional parking sites just beyond it.

The faint and unmarked path first descends a slope and then follows a narrow stream for 0.6 miles. Upon reaching the 0.6-mile mark, the trail crosses a broader section of the stream, requiring only minor rock hopping, even during periods of heavy rain.

Following the stream crossing, the trail ascends to the top of a cliff. Then, after 150 feet, hikers should watch for the tree-covered rock formation shown in the photo below. To access the falls, hikers should descend at this point instead of continuing along the faint trail that runs atop the cliffs.

After a brief descent, the trail arrives at the foot of the cliffs, where hikers should be able to hear the sound of the falls from a distance.

After tracing along the base of the cliffs for a few hundred yards, the trail arrives at a large rockshelter and Pine Island Double Falls.

The falls are created by two distinct streams flowing above: Pine Island Branch and an unnamed stream. The plunge pool and lower portion of Pine Island Branch near the falls showcase a blue-green tint, resulting from mineral breakdown in the nearby limestone.

Hikers will find plenty of space for exploring behind and around the falls. However, Pine Island Double Falls is largely a seasonal waterfall and frequently dries up. It's recommended to visit during spring or after substantial summer rainfall for the best experience. By fall, the waterfall typically diminishes to a trickle or dries out entirely. The photos shown here were taken in mid-March after a day of moderate rainfall.