Overview. I’ve always hiked here as part of longer routes, so the day before a 50K race made for a great reason to hike the short version. Princess Falls is among the more playful waterfalls in Kentucky and typically has decent flow except during significant droughts. Along the way, enjoy Julia Lynn Falls that was trickling after a dry stretch, but is gorgeous with recent rains.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 2.8 miles
Overall Difficulty | Easy

GPS Waypoints
Lower Trailhead | 36.724706, -84.543878
Upper Trailhead | 36.725447, -84.543078
Julia Lynn Falls | 36.727700, -84.533075
Princess Falls | 36.727397, -84.523228
Big South Fork NRRA Area Map
Lick Creek Trail Map

Parking. Limited parking is available just short of Yamacraw Bridge. The parking area is split into two tiers with additional parking on the other side of the bridge.

Trail navigation. The trail is well marked and easily navigated. From the lower parking lot, take Sheltowee Trace northeast toward the bridge. Continue on sandy/silty trail with plenty of downed trees (see hiker note below) before reaching better trail a little higher up. Continue until reaching the intersection with Lick Creek Trail and head upstream to reach Princess Falls. Circle around Princess Falls (I crossed above the falls on this low flow day; cross below if higher flow is present) and take them in. Retrace your steps to Sheltowee Trace and take the high trail for an easier return. Finish at the upper tier of the parking lot before returning to your vehicle.

HIKER NOTE - High Trail for Ease/Flooding. Use the trailhead from the upper tier of the parking lot to avoid sandy/silty trail and plentiful deadfall. The high trail is also the only trail when flooding is present. Sheltowee Trace has a number of sections like this where old trail is closer to streams with high routes available for use during high water periods. I believe only the high routes are now properly maintained by Forest Service.

CAUTION - Poisonous Snakes. Copperheads and timber rattlesnakes can be found in the area. Should you encounter one, stop and slowly back away. Always give venemous snakes a wide berth. Know Before You Go => University of Kentucky Venemous Snake Guide

CAUTION - Black Bears. Ursus Americanus - a.k.a. the American black bear is growing in population throughout much of Kentucky. Know Before You Go => US Forest Service Black Bear Safety Tips