Cumberland River, Kentucky
| Price |
 What's this? |
| Class of Rapids |
North Fork: II-III |
| Trip Miles |
North Fork: 5 to 8 miles |
| Trip Duration |
North Fork: 0.5 to 1 day |
| Season |
May-October |
| Raft Type |
Paddle Raft |
| River Sections |
Cumberland Falls |
| Nearby Towns |
Parkers Lake (KY) |
| Driving Times |
Knoxville (TN): 2 hours; Louisville (KY): 2 hours |
| Recommended For |
Beginner, Canoeing, Fall |
The Cumberland is actually a river system that offers many options for one- to three-day trips. Think weekend paradise. The Big South Fork is probably the most renowned paddle. This is a near wilderness run through an area protected as the Big South Fork NRA. The environment is densely forested sandstone canyons, lush and rugged at the same time. The North Fork ventures through a spectacular gorge. Boulders present a rambunctious obstacle course. This is known as the "Below the Falls Run," the "falls" referring to stunning Cumberland Falls. Above the falls, the river is swift but placid—superlative canoe territory.
* Trip price reflects the average cost per day for a guided rafting adventure on a given river (
= $50-$100/day;
= $100-$250/day;
= $250 or more/day) and accounts for half-day, full-day, or multiday rafting excursions. Lodging, dining, and transportation costs (airfare, car rental/shuttle, equipment rentals, etc.) have not been factored into account. Please note that the trip price classification is intended to be an approximate guideline, as the range of prices on a given river can vary based on amenities, services, and customized add-ons offered through individual outfitters.
