Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is hosting the 22nd Annual Moonbow Trail Trek, on Saturday, Oct. 27, and will offer nature lovers the opportunity to combine a strenuous hike with a chance to view a moonbow.
Cumberland Falls is called the “Niagara of the South” because of its 125-foot-wide curtain of water. Sometimes at night, when conditions are right, mists from the falls produce a faint rainbow, known as a moonbow. The moonbow may be visible after dark Oct. 27-31.
The Moonbow Trail Trek takes hikers during daylight hours to see the falls and other natural formations, including cascading streams, tower cliffs and house-sized rock formations. There is a 7-mile trek for the most adventurous hikers and a 4.5-mile trek for those with less experience. The 7-mile hike departs between 8:30 and 10 a.m. EDT, and the 4.5 mile trek leaves between 10 and 11 a.m.
Availability is limited, and participants must preregister by Oct. 25. Participation is limited to the first 100 people to register.
Check-in stations will be staffed throughout the hike and sweeps will be conducted to ensure safety. The Moonbow Trail Trek is not recommended for children under 10-years-old or solo hikers. The cost is $15 per person and includes a T-shirt. Participants should bring a day pack, hiking boots, extra socks, a flashlight, batteries, rain gear, a first-aid kit, a warm jacket and enough food and water to last six to eight hours.
Cumberland Falls State Resort Park near Corbin has a lodge, cottages, the Riverview Restaurant, a campground and hiking trails. For more information and to register for the Moonbow Trail Trek, call 1-800-325-0063 or 606-528-4121.
Information provided by the Kentucky Department of Parks.