Kentuckians know that there are little slices of heaven all over the Bluegrass State. the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest in Clermont, KY is definitely one of those slices. Located just outside of Bardstown in the heart of bourbon country, Bernheim Forest is only about 30 minutes away from Louisville, and an hour and a half from Lexington. Check out why this natural getaway is unique, and why you should drop everything and go there right now. It's one of the most beautiful places in Kentucky!

Welcome to Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest, one of the most scenic places in Kentucky.

The 14,738 acres of property that Bernheim Forest now sits on was purchased in 1929 by Isaac Wolfe Bernheim. Much of the land had already been logged and derived of resources by humans, but Bernheim's goal with the purchase was to let the land recover so that future generations would have a place to enjoy a natural setting. Bernheim is managed by a nonprofit organization to keep it flourishing, making Isaac Bernheim’s initial idea a reality. Even though more than 200,000 people visit the forest every year, the land has restored itself in the last eight decades, and now boasts clean air and water and a healthy biological diversity.

When you enter Bernheim Forest, you'll come across this little building to welcome you.

Admittance is free, although there is a recommended donation of $15 per vehicle.

The Visitor Center at Bernheim is a work of art itself.

The Visitor Center and Isaac's Cafe is open everyday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. However, the grounds are open daily from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m.

The manicured gardens surrounding it make for a lovely short walk.

If you're hungry from all the exploring, stop in at Isaac's Cafe.

The Cafe offers a seasonal menu with food from local farmers. They also have box lunches you can take on the trails with you, and catering for small groups.

Part of what makes Bernheim unique is all the art and sculptures that are located throughout the grounds.

Bernheim is a great place to visit and connect with nature year-round, but it's especially gorgeous in the fall when the leaves are changing.

And look how magical it is in the spring.

Relax at this overlook and admire the surrounding landscape.

One of the biggest attractions at Bernheim Forest is the Canopy Tree Walk.

The Canopy Tree Walk immerses you right into the leaves of the forest. The boardwalk juts out into the canopy of trees and is elevated 75 feet above the forest floor.

There are also opportunities to explore lakes and creeks at Bernheim.

This boardwalk extends across Cedar Pond. You can purchase handfuls of fish and turtle food to get a better look at our aquatic friends.

Check out the many hiking trails at Bernheim.

There are over 35 miles of trails for both hiking and biking at Bernheim, so there is something for everyone. The trails range in both length and difficulty. They have trails that are short and level and therefore kid-friendly, and they have longer ones that are more strenuous. The Millennium Trail is a difficult 13.75-mile hike. You must register at the Visitor Center if you're planning on hiking it.

Are you ready to add the Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest to your Kentucky bucket list? For more information on Bernheim Forest, one of the most beautiful places in Kentucky, including hours, hiking trails, and special events, check out the Bernheim website. The main entrance to Bernheim is on Highway 245, one mile east of Exit 112 on I-65.

Has anyone ever been to Bernheim before? Let us know!

If you're planning on taking a road trip In Kentucky, make sure you check out our Ultimate Road Trip Packing List for everything you need before you go!