Clifty Falls State Park

Activity Overview

Admire the grandeur of Clifty Falls State Park, located 46 miles northeast of Louisville, with its magnificent scenery, rugged canyons, and brilliant waterfalls.

Changing from roaring waterfalls to mists to frozen descents, visitors will marvel at Big and Little Clifty Falls, Hoffman Falls and Tunnel Falls. They will also appreciate the creeks, fossil beds and impressive views of the canyon at various points throughout the park.

Things to Do

• Take a hike on of the ten trails found in the park, ranging from easy to extreme.
• Ttour the Lanier State Historic Site, the former mansion of frontier banker James F.D. Lanier, and enjoy the drive along the beautiful Ohio River.
• Plan a park visit during one of the community's special events, such as the July Regatta hydroplane boat race or the Madison Chautauqua Festival of Art in late September.
• Rest overnight at The Clifty Inn or on one of the campsites.

Clifty Falls State Park Insider Tips

• The falls change their look with the seasons, and visiting the park in the winter or spring is said to provide the best view.
• An interesting fact about the canyon is that the sun only shines there at midday.
• Clifty Creek’s stony bed is littered with fossil remnants that included ancient corals, ancestral squids, brachiopods and more. Althought fossil collecting within Clifty Falls State Park is prohibited, nearby collecting locations are readily accessible.