Taking a stroll along the scenic waterfront trails in Kentucky can be perfect on a warm spring or summer day. As the weather heats up, the water helps keep things just a tad bit cooler than anywhere else. River or lake scenery is phenomenal, regardless if you are in the city, or at a state park. You just cannot go wrong when taking a waterside stroll in Kentucky… unless of course, you do it when the mosquitoes are active.

Here are 11 scenic waterfront paths in Kentucky for a relaxing stroll:

11. Jefferson Memorial Forest, Fairdale

There is a beautiful forest at 11311 Mitchell Hill Road with a relaxing lakeside view. You can fish, take out a rowboat, canoe or kayak, or just enjoy the view from the shore. Sunrise and sunset are perfect times to find that serene ambiance during a stroll by the water.

10. McKee Scout Reservation, Jeffersonville

This area at 8695 Levee Road is primarily known as a scout area, but anyone can rent a site with the proper permits by calling 859-498-1328. The area itself is gorgeous, especially around the water. It is a perfect spot to go for a stroll and watch the sailboats go by.

9. Louisville riverwalk

The Waterfront Park at 129 River Road is a happening spot to check out cool eats and beautiful scenery. There is a immaculately maintained park area with plenty of benches and places to sit and gaze at the Ohio River. There are restaurants nearby if you get hungry too. You can get a to-go lunch and enjoy it at your leisure. You can also walk across the Big Four Pedestrian Bridge to Indiana and get an "over the river" view.

8. Bear Grass Creek Greenway, Louisville

This beautiful walk around 2001 Lexington Road is a scenic paradise in the city. You can take a stroll and just relax and soak up the flourishing plant life surrounding the creek. Bear Grass Creek has a bit of a reputation for pollution, though levels are under dispute. However, most of the area looks quite lovely most of the time. It does flood if there is a lot of rain.

7. Cozy Cove Waterfront Resort, Benton

This resort at 1917 Reed Road is not the most widely known in Kentucky, but it should be. The area is charming, offering a relaxing environment for boaters and nature enthusiasts alike. You will find the best of both worlds as you stroll along the shores here, lush woodlands and plenty of water. As an added bonus, there are some ideal accommodations if you choose to stay a while.

6. Nolin Lake Resort Park, Mammoth Cave

This favored park at 2998 Briar Creek Road is popular for fishing, boating, swimming and water sports in general. However, it is also a wonderful spot to stroll around and just enjoy the view of nature and the lake. There are a variety of trails, or you can just take a walk around part of the lake.

5. Otter Creek Outdoor Recreation Area, Brandenburg

This beautiful park is off Dixie Highway, but you have to watch for the signs. Once you choose where to park, just take a stroll down to the river and walk right along beside it. Parts are shallow enough to cross, and clean enough to kick off your shoes and get your toes wet.

4. Paintsville Lake Marina, Staffordsville

This beautiful but lesser known lake at 1581 Kentucky Route 2275 is a perfect place for a waterside stroll. The area is pretty well maintained, but has a few rough spots. You can choose to stay along the shoreline for a relatively easy walk with a beautiful view.

3.Newport riverwalk, Newport

This area on Levee Way offers an astounding view of the Ohio River. You can stop in the nearby restaurants and dine, or grab a to go box and head to your favorite bench. It is a great place to work off a dessert, like ice cream, in this hot weather. The breeze off the river keeps it at least 5 degrees cooler than places away from the water.

2. Ravens Run, Lexington

This beautiful preserve at 3885 Raven Run Way offers some of the most breathtaking scenery you will find. It is like strolling through a postcard, except you can smell the flowers and nature’s scents. There are several different areas that have a water trail, one of which has a quaint little bridge.

1. Red River Gorge, Stanton

The Gorge is known to be one of the most absolute beautiful spots in Kentucky, and every trail leads to a scenic bonanza. Water enthusiasts will find some great trails around Robbie Ridge Road. If you want to check out a waterfall, you will find one along the trail on Rock Bridge Arch. Just strolling along Red River is like a journey into a serene postcard, full of flora, fauna, wildlife and water fowl.

Finding scenic waterfront trails in Kentucky is not hard to do. We have plenty of lakes and rivers that are surrounded by Mother Nature. You can check out some other waterfront places to visit here.