Entry 6: Witnessing the Moonbow at Cumberland Falls: A One-of-a-Kind Kentucky Experience

Witnessing the Moonbow at Cumberland Falls: A One-of-a-Kind Kentucky Experience

Near Corbin, Kentucky, tucked within the rolling hills and thick forests, sits one of my favorite places to revisit again and again: Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. My family and I have made several trips over the past few years, but on this visit, we set out to witness something truly rare—a moonbow.

What Is a Moonbow?

A moonbow is similar to a rainbow, but instead of sunlight, it's formed by moonlight reflecting off water droplets in the air. The effect is subtle and surreal—a white or silvery arch that can appear over waterfalls under the right conditions, especially during a full moon. One of the best and only places in the Western Hemisphere to reliably see a moonbow is right here at Cumberland Falls.

You can read more about the science behind moonbows on Wikipedia.

Our Family’s Night at Cumberland Falls

We arrived just after 9:00 p.m. and walked down the path to the falls, below the DuPont Lodge. We had heard that the best time to view a moonbow was between 9:30 and 11:00 p.m., so we got there a little early to find a good spot and set up the camera.

As the clouds cleared and the full moon rose, a silver arc appeared above the falls—a moonbow in full glow. It first appeared white and ghostly. As the night progressed and the moonlight grew stronger, faint rainbow colors began to emerge near the bottom of the bow.

Clouds drifted in and out, and each reappearance of the moonbow offered a slightly different perspective. It was quiet, peaceful, and awe-inspiring. While the kids eventually turned their attention to other things, my wife and I sat together, reflecting on how special the moment was.

Capturing the Moonbow on Camera

I brought my camera and tripod and spent time experimenting with various low-light settings. Some of the photos turned out surprisingly well, considering the conditions. A few of those shots are included below, all taken around 10:30 p.m.State Parks truly have something that is internationally unique and deserves a place on the bucket list.

Why You Should See the Moonbow for Yourself

As much as I enjoy sharing stories and photographs, nothing compares to seeing the moonbow in person. The sound of the falls, the shifting mist, the quiet crowd gathered in awe—it all adds to an experience that feels larger than life.

If you find yourself in Kentucky during a full moon, make time to visit Cumberland Falls. It’s more than just a scenic overlook. It’s one of the few places on Earth where nature puts on a show this unique. The moonbow is a reminder of why public lands matter, and why Kentucky State Parks are worth celebrating.