Class II North Fork Cumberland River, KY

Cumberland Falls' 68-foot drop is world famous as the "Niagara of the South." Moonbeams reflecting off the mists from the falls create moonbows. The boulder-strewn riverbed left from the upstream migration of Cumberland Falls through the millennia makes some of the most challenging whitewater rapids in the South. The section of the North Fork of Cumberland River from Cumberland Falls to Lake Cumberland gets all of the publicity; but the nearly 17-mile section of the river upstream of the falls remains relatively unknown by comparison. This is good news for paddlers who want serenity and enjoy an intimate gorge surrounded by the Daniel Boone National Forest while catching quality smallmouth bass. Boaters have the option of two floats that showcase this unique and remote part of the Daniel Boone National Forest. The first covers about 11 miles, the second 5 miles. This stretch of water features shoals and mild whitewater rapids, perfect for a beginning paddler to hone their water-reading and paddling skills. (KYFWR)