Kentucky is filled with parks and recreation areas where you can go for a walk through a beautiful forest. Some of these places are definitely out of the way and while worthy of a visit, not always practical. If you live near the Louisville area and are anxious to experience a magical series of hiking trails in Kentucky, look no further than Jefferson Memorial Forest. This massive park offers thousands of acres of forest and miles of hiking trails for all levels, many of which make you feel like you're entering a fairytale.
Located just 15 miles south of Louisville, Jefferson Memorial Forest is an outdoor paradise for anyone looking for a variety of convenient trails.
There are approximately 6,500 acres of forest for you to explore and although close to the largest city in the state, they make up some of the loveliest hiking trails in Kentucky.
There are dozens of trails within the different areas of the park and this beautiful scene can be found along the Yost Ridge Trail.
This is a great, family-friendly trail that offers diverse scenery. You can extend this 2-mile hike to a comfortable 3 miles by starting at the Welcome Center and then taking the Mitchell Hill Lake Trail before heading back.
If you love views, the Coral Ridge Loop offers beautiful ones of the Louisville area.
You will gradually ascend the hills of the forest and eventually reach the upland knobs where you'll find those views.
One of the most popular trails within Jefferson Memorial Forest is the Red Trail found at the Horine Reservation.
You can explore almost five miles here and the trail offers so much diversity in landscape, wildlife, and geology.
Scott's Gap Loop Trail is another scenic area of the park, but keep in mind it is closed during the month of May while new trails are constructed.
But keep these trails on your list for your next visit, especially if you're looking for a more challenging hike, but one that comes with a beautiful pay off in scenery.
All over Jefferson Memorial Forest you will find natural beauty in everything from lily pads floating on a pond to wildflowers growing along a trail.
The park also offers a number of events, activities, and other amenities, so be sure to check out its website, listed below, for more information.
And as such a large, natural area, wildlife spottings may just be your favorite part of a visit.
Animals seem to love this magical forest just as much as the human locals do, and we are lucky to be able to share this land and experience these wonderful hiking trails in Kentucky.
The great outdoors are definitely on display around the Bluegrass State and the hiking trails in Kentucky are a wonderful way to spend time. If you have yet to explore the miles of scenic trails at Jefferson Memorial Forest, plan a visit soon. Is this one of your favorite hiking spots in Kentucky? If you have other suggestions, be sure to tell us about them on our Nominations Page.
And for more information on the trails at Jefferson Memorial Forest, visit its website and learn more about the entire park here.
If you'd like to experience more fairytale-like places in Kentucky, here are 10 more magical destinations throughout the Bluegrass.
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