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 Cumberland Falls area on their way from South America to the Northern States and Canada. Several species of birds can be viewed from our Riverview Restaurant and back patio of the Dupont Lodge. 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.

Gem Mining
Our newest attraction is the Cumberland Falls Mining Company, located at the Falls just past the Gift Shop. You can buy bags for $6.00, $8.00 and $10.00 fossils and begin your discoveries of real, colorful gemstones and fossils at the gemstone flume. Just place a scoop of rough material on the screen...then rinse with clean water. The gem stones, when wet, will reveal colors and crystal shapes

There are lots of different gemstones to discover Anything from locally-found Pyrite, Fluorite and Quartz, to Ruby, Moonstone, Topaz, Crystal Points, Sapphire, Emerald, Amethyst, Garnett, Citrine, Aventurine, Obsidian, Sodalite, Calcite and Raspberry Quartz could be found.

Sharing the experience of mining at the flume mine is a lot of fun. You can compare finds and help each other to identify what you've found. We invite individuals, families, and groups of all sizes. Hours are 9AM to 7PM, dependent on weather.

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.

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.

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.

The park 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.

Anglers can enjoy fishing 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. Fishing gear is available to rent on-site if needed. For those interested in fly-fishing, there are designated areas within the river as well.

Cool off on a hot summer day with a dip in an Olympic-size pool. Pool is short distance from Lodge and Woodland Rooms.

Use of pool is free to lodge and cottage guests. Fee for the public. Open Memorial Day - Labor Day. Hours 10-8 through July 10-6 pm August - Labor Day.

Cumberland Falls is the ideal location for meetings. A multipurpose building, adjacent to the lodge, can accommodate 350 people. There is a 75-capacity combination meeting-recreation room near the lodge lounge. For smaller groups, a 30-capacity meeting room is located near the dining room.

As spectacular as the view that surrounds it, Dupont Lodge Patio offers an inspiring view of the Cumberland River and encircling mountains. The Lodge is a perfect place for your wedding. Let us cater to your guests in our spacious reception halls. For information on booking an event, phone the park 800-325-0063 and ask for Greta.