Rainbows are a welcome sight after a summer rain. We love spotting rainbows on the horizon as the sun comes out, but we don't usually see them at night. When a rainbow occurs at night as a result of moonlight, it is known as a moonbow. These rare phenomena only occur in a few places in the world, and one of those places is Kentucky.
Discovering Moonbows
I first learned of the moonbow phenomenon when studying Africa with my daughters. We learned that Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe is home to a moonbow or a rainbow that appears in the mist of a waterfall due to the light of a full moon. I was intrigued, so this led to researching and learning that Yosemite National Park experiences moonbows occasionally, but the waterfall isn't reliable as it depends on rainfall. However, there is a reliable moonbow in the United States, and it can be found in Kentucky.
Cumberland Falls State Park and the Moonbow
Cumberland Falls State Park is one of the prettiest locations in Kentucky's state park system, with a beautiful rustic lodge overlooking a river, hiking trails, equestrian trails, and waterfalls. It is also the only place in North America with a reliable moonbow.
So, on a quest to see a moonbow firsthand, our family trekked to Kentucky. On our trip, we experienced some of the state's landmarks including horse races at Churchill Downs, Natural Bridge State Park, Cumberland Gap Trail, and the Louisville Slugger Museum. However, the highlight of our Kentucky visit was our stay at Cumberland Falls and its famous moonbow.
Cumberland Falls, considered the Niagara of the South, produces beautiful daytime rainbows from many angles.
Tips for Cumberland Falls State Park:
Stay during a full moon to view the moonbow. Follow this link for photography tips.
Lodging options at Cumberland Falls State Park include hotel rooms at DuPont Lodge, Cabins (pay attention to accessibility. This is an older park and some cabins have 50+ steep steps leading to their entrance), and tent camping.
Horseback rides are available.
The park is home to many hiking trails.
You may climb the fire tower to get a bird's eye view of the area.
Outdoor enthusiasts love the beautiful Kentucky woods, hiking trails, and, of course, the river. The waterfalls (there are several to enjoy) offer a peaceful setting to enjoy nature. This state park is a jewel in its own right, with the moonbow adding a truly unique experience, making this a bucket list must.
These photos showcase the beautiful park, the lodge, and the cabins:
Start Planning Your Kentucky Getaway:
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