Bad Branch Falls - High Rock Trail

Bad Branch Falls, with it’s beautiful trail and enchanting 60 ft. waterfall, is a Letcher County treasure. It is a must see for visitors wanting to explore our area. The hike to Bad Branch Falls is a little over a mile (one way) and takes close to 2.5 hours at a leisurely pace. The trail will take you through an old timber haul road that was built in the 30’s or 40’s.
This hike is a categorized as a moderate hike because it requires climbing over rocks and walking around small ledges. During the winter, there is usually ice along the trail which can also make hiking somewhat dangerous. Most people that can walk one mile should not have any trouble. 
The scenery to the falls is breathtaking, including high sandstone cliffs, giant hemlock pines and many different types of rock formations. If you want something a little more challenging, there is an option to take the High Rock Loop Trail, a little over 2 mile hike to the crest of Pine Mountain. This trail joins in with the Pine Mountain State Scenic Trail - which will stretch over 110 miles when completed.

Here are some articles and guides about Bad Branch Falls to get an in depth look at why you need to visit. The AllTrails page for Bad Branch / High Rock. An in depth look at the Bad Branch State Nature Preserve. An interesting blog post chronicling the hike from High Lonesome Trails. A blog post from Dana Kuhnline, writing for The Appalachian Voice.

KY Wildlands Waterfall Trail

Bad Branch Falls was also chosen to be featured as a stop on the Kentucky Wildlands Waterfall Trail alond with 16 others in surrounding areas.

Let nature direct your path to these 17 amazing waterfalls. The Kentucky Wildlands is home to more than 800 waterfalls, but you can experience some spectacular ones on The Kentucky Wildlands Waterfall Trail. While it’s impossible to feature all our great waterfalls on one trail, you’ll find these seventeen magnificent falls along forested paths, at the end of majestic mountain hikes or even on a short trek from a parking lot. On The Kentucky Wildlands Waterfall Trail, no two falls are alike. Each possesses its own unforgettable stories, legends and history that makes discovering them even more memorable and fun. Each will reward you with their own stunning backdrops, cool cascades and scenic pools and leave you awestruck, beckoning you to explore and linger a while longer. Discover the amazing natural wonders of The Kentucky Wildlands Waterfall Trail.

To learn more visit explorekywildlands.com