Everyone In Kentucky Must Visit This Epic Natural Spring As Soon As Possible
By Jenn Shockley|Published March 29, 2016
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Jenn Shockley
Author
I am somewhat a cliche'. I grew up running around barefoot on a farm in Kentucky.
I love writing, art, sunshine, all animals and my incredibly patient husband, who tolerates my "crazy animal lady" side.
Few states can brag about the overall beauty of their surroundings, but we can. The Bluegrass State has gorgeous land and more miles of navigable water than any state, except Alaska. Our abundant forests are thick and hearty, and Kentucky’s natural springs have the crispest, cleanest water you will ever see. One of the most amazing of which is the Saunders Springs Nature Preserve, named after the original landowners from the early 1800s.
Saunders Springs is located between Fort Knox and 31W with the entrance off North Wilson Road. It is a beautiful 26-acre nature preserve featuring a variety of terrains in which to hike, picnic, study history and the beauty of nature itself. It actually sits in the Highland Rim physiographic region of Kentucky on the edge of the Karst Plateau.
Like a large portion of our state, Saunders Springs Nature Preserve sits atop a variety of cave systems and underground caverns. The main spring actually stems from a cave at the base of a cliff, cascading down a rock covered stream. There are many large stones piled alongside the stream in different areas that were once part of a 1800s mill. Back in those days, the stream was a popular place for the children to gather and play, as a one room school was nearby.
The Nature Preserve is connected to a 73-acre area deemed the Saunders Springs Annex, which Radcliffe leases from Fort Knox. The spring was the areas primary water source up until the 1930s when Fort Knox developed more updated water transport methods.
Dusk to dawn daily, the entire preserve is open for the use of the public. It has picnic tables, scout camping areas, BBQ grills, a water fountain, and two lovely pavilions for shelter in case of a spring shower. There are also three vintage cabins, circa 1800s, for history lovers.
Walking around Saunders Springs is an adventure in beauty. There are around 10 trails covering a little more than two miles in the 26-acre area. The steeper trails have steps to make the climb to the overlook a little easier. (That is, if you consider around 800 steps to be easy.) The top of the hill is well worth the exertion though, as it offers a breathtaking view of the stocked lake and surrounding woodlands. There are 11 trails in the 76-acre area, and a 200 ft. difference in elevation from the Springs to the Annex area.
The trails are typically 2 to 5 feet in width, made from crushed rock or dirt, and charming bridges over the streams. Mountain bike trails are nearby for the more adventurous. It is a mixed Hardwood Forest dominated by varieties of Oak, but there are still over 30 species of trees, 14 types of shrub understory plants, and over 80 varieties of native plants. That is excluding the more than 200 unique species of wildflowers, vines, mosses, and native grasses.
The versatility of the land makes it a haven for wildlife of many types. There have been more than 34 different animals recorded here, including snails, terrestrial vertebrates, and aquatic animals. Those who don’t fear things that slither in the night will be excited to know there are around 13 snake varieties as well. Fishing is allowed and the lake is stocked regularly.
One of the best aspects of the Preserve is the fact they have a handicapped accessible trail, which is quite uncommon in hiking areas. The unique added convenience ensures everyone can enjoy the beauty and serenity of the springs. This trail leads visitors all around the elder forest and past a few gorgeous, cascading waterfalls.
If you have never been to one of Kentucky’s natural springs, Saunders Springs should be put on the bucket list. It is a serene preserve with some scattered history just waiting to be explored. I always found the bluish pond to be a mesmerizing, peaceful spot on the right day. There is an abundance of gorgeous natural springs on private properties, but as far as public access, Saunders Springs is a real gem. What is your favorite natural spring in Kentucky?
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