Pine Island Double Falls has been called Kentucky’s hidden gem… and we don’t disagree! If you haven’t hiked Pine Island Double Falls yet, it should be on your bucket list for Kentucky waterfalls! As you may have assumed from the name, this unique waterfall features not only one but two waterfalls at the end of the trail. Kentucky, specifically, Eastern Kentucky, is home to some amazing waterfalls and these falls do not disappoint. These falls are absolutely beautiful and quickly became one of our favorite falls we visited.
The falls are located in London, Kentucky right in the heart of Appalachia. The trail itself is an out-and-back trail totaling 1.4 miles with an elevation gain of about 177 ft. The trail is considered moderately challenging; however, we found it to be a relatively easy hike. For the majority of the hike, you will be walking on flat ground near a small creek. It isn’t until the last portion of the hike that you will be trekking uphill.
We visited Pine Island Double Falls in January 2023. Winter is our favorite time to visit waterfalls. Why? The waterfalls are more likely to be stronger and less likely to be dried up considering winter is a relatively wet season in the state of Kentucky. We’ve visited waterfalls several times in the summer to be disappointed at the trickling streams. There are also fewer bugs and snakes during this time of year. Honestly, we think it’s perfect and we plan almost all of our waterfall trips between December and May.
How to Get There
The trail is open year-round and is relatively easy to find! The trail itself is unofficial and the trailhead isn’t marked; however, you will know when you find the trailhead. If you aren’t an avid hiker, that may sound scary. Everyone has different comfort levels when it comes to hiking. However, this trail is very popular and the chances you will come across other hikers are high!
Here is the address: https://goo.gl/maps/RsJvY98LrkcSJj1DA. If you place this exact address into your GPS you will be led directly to it. You will travel down a gravel road for several miles before arriving at the trailhead. The trail is pretty popular and there will probably be multiple people parked around the trailhead.
The Trail to Pine Island Double Falls
You’ll notice that the trail has several orange tags tied around the trees and these tags can be found throughout the trail which can make it much easier to know that you are still on the trail. Overall, the trail is relatively easy to follow. Through the majority of the hike, you will be hiking next to and across a small creek. There are times when the trail crosses over the creek and so we would recommend waterproof shoes and socks. We had waterproof hiking boots and our feet remained dry through the entire hike. At the end of the creek, you’ll come to a drop-off. While it is not entirely clear, you’ll trek up the hill to the left to remain on the trail.
Hiking through the trail, you will notice some of the most famous features of Kentucky. These include gorges, canyons, and caves. Once you arrive at the waterfall, be sure to explore the rocks to get a closer look at the waterfall. We also enjoyed checking out the vantage point of the cave to the left of the waterfalls.
We hope this helps you plan your hike to Pine Island Double Falls! Please reach out to us by dropping a comment below or reaching out to us on our Instagram if you have any lingering questions. As always, safe travels y’all ~ Justin & Caitlin