Pooch's Turtle Falls

Wolfe County, Kentucky

Your visit at a glance

Waterfall height: Not recorded
Location: Wolfe County, Kentucky
Access status: Marked trail route and designated parking documented
The walk: Distance to the falls not published; return the same way
Ground & access: Marked trails in the Clifty Wilderness with eroding sections. The scramble down to the base is informal; use caution.

Kentucky Hiker Project: Swift Camp Creek and spurs

From the Rock Bridge South Trailhead, walk downhill past Creation Falls and Rock Bridge, then go straight through the junction onto Swift Camp Creek Trail. Continue until the trail crosses a small stream at the top of Pooch's Turtle Falls. A better view of the falls needs a scramble down to the creek. Return the same way on the marked trails.

Plan your visit

Rock Bridge Trailhead: Rock Bridge Loop (#207) and Swift Camp Creek Trail (#219) to the top of Pooch's Turtle Falls

No published distance from the trailhead to the falls alone. The Outbound lists 5 miles for a loop that also visits Turtle Back Arch on unmarked paths; that is a longer combined outing.

Marked trails in the Clifty Wilderness with eroding sections. The scramble down to the base is informal; use caution.

Where to start

Rock Bridge Trail parking area on the one-way loop at the end of Rock Bridge Road. Park only in designated areas. Lots fill on busy weekends.

Timing & water

Flow is low after dry spells.

Before you go

The Forest Service lists a Red River Gorge vehicle permit for overnight use ($5 per day). No day-use fee is listed on that page.

Visitor information

Visit sources

More waterfalls nearby

Within 40 straight-line miles. Road and trail distances will differ.

Explore Kentucky

Waterfall location

Wolfe County, Kentucky.

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