Local Area Guide: Things to do / Activities / Attractions
Birding
Some of the most memorable birding experiences are hearing the call and catching a glimpse of the Pileated Woodpecker, or the flute-like call of the Wood Thrush. Many species of Wood Warblers pass through the Diamond Acres area on their way from South America to the Northern States and Canada. Some of the most common visitors are Carolina Chickadee, White-breasted Nuthatch, Tufted Titmouse, Carolina Wren, Chipping Sparrow, Northern Cardinal, Dark-eyed Junco, House Finch, American Goldfinch, Downy Woodpecker, and Red Bellied Woodpecker.
Boating
The area offers a variety of boating options for visitors. Canoeing and rafting are popular activities, with the Cumberland River providing ample opportunities for both. Guided canoe trips can be arranged through local outfitters or you can bring your own equipment to explore on your own terms. For those who prefer motorized watercrafts, there`s also an option to rent pontoon boats from nearby marinas which allows guests to enjoy leisurely cruises along the river while taking in beautiful views of surrounding landscapes.
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy fishing in Bark Camp Creek or in the Cumberland River, known for its population of rainbow trout and smallmouth bass. The park also offers a variety of fishing spots suitable for all experience levels. For those interested in fly-fishing, there are designated areas within the river as well. Diamond Acres also has two fishing lakes that are perfect for kids.
Rafting
Guided rafting trips are offered on the Cumberland River. The park arranges the trips through www.Ky-rafting.com Daily May - October depending on water levels. Fee charged. Call 800-541-RAFT 7238.
Swimming
Cool off on a hot summer day with a dip in an Olympic-size pool. Cumberland Falls Pool is short distance from Diamond Acres.
Open Memorial Day - Labor Day. Hours 10-8 through July 10-6 pm August - Labor Day.
Trails
1. Moonbow Trail: A 10.8-mile loop trail that offers a chance to see the famous "moonbow, " a nighttime rainbow, at Cumberland Falls during full moon nights.
2. Eagle Falls Trail #9: This moderate 1.5-mile round trip hike leads to scenic views of Cumberland Falls and ends at Eagle Falls, providing opportunities for photography and bird watching.
3. Pinnacle Knob Fire Tower Trail: Spanning approximately six miles out-and-back, this strenuous trail takes hikers up to an old fire tower with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
4. Blue Bend Loop #25: An easy-to-moderate 5-mile loop featuring diverse flora along Laurel River Lake`s shoreline; suitable for all skill levels looking for peaceful nature walks.
5. Cumberland River Trail #6: Covering about three miles one-way (six miles total), it follows alongside the river offering sights like rapids and quiet pools as well as fishing spots.
6. Schoolhouse Arch Loop #12: At just under two miles in length, this short but interesting trek passes by Schoolhouse Arch -a natural sandstone arch- before looping back around.
7. Rock Creek LoopTrail #14: Approximately seven mile long circuit through dense forested areas where hikers can encounter local wildlife such as deer or wild turkey.
Horse Back Riding
Horseback Riding Cumberland Falls State Resort Park is the perfect destination to introduce the family to the thrill of horseback riding. The park offers guided trail rides that are easy enough for the first timer and still adventurous for the more experienced. Riders, age 6 and up will enjoy a 45-minute ride through an eastern Kentucky forest, beautiful in any season. The stables open weekends in May and are daily after Memorial Weekend until Labor Day. Also open on weekends during Sept. and Oct. Rides start on the hour from 10am to 6 pm. Cost is $18.00 per person. Personal horses are not permitted on the trails at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, but there are several opportunities to do so in the surrounding area. There are many miles of trails and several horse camps in the nearby Daniel Boone National Forest and The Big South Fork National River and Recreation area. |