We know many of you nature lovers out there are enjoying the last of the summer heat before the cold fall really starts to hit us. One of my favorite things about living in Louisville is that there are so many places to escape in nature, and amazing natural sights to explore! Listed below are some of the most incredible natural attractions in and around our beloved city.
1. Fairmount Falls
Fairmount Falls is a beautiful waterfall in Louisville that can be reached via a short, 15-minute hike. The park is located southeast of Louisville off of Thixton Lane.
To learn more about this waterfall and how to reach it,
click here.
2. Parklands of Floyd's Fork
The Parklands encompasses Turkey Run Park, Pope Lick Park, Beckley Creek Park, and the Strand, each park just as incredible as the next. The parks follow the Floyd's Fork tributary of the Salt River, providing a great place to kayak and canoe, too.
3. Jefferson Memorial Forest
Check out the Jefferson Memorial Forest for an unforgettable view. As the largest municipal urban forest in the United States at 6,500 acres, it's easy to get lost on the countless trails offered here. It is also the perfect place to get off the grid and go camping.
4. Falls of the Ohio
Located right across the river, the Falls of the Ohio offer beautiful views of the river and our city. Walk the trails and trace your fingers along the ancient fossil beds that line this beautiful spot. Check out their new interpretive center to learn more about the fascinating fossils found at the falls.
5. Broad Run Park
Broad Run Park is always a beautiful spot to visit, but especially when you can see these gorgeous flowers in bloom. Who wouldn't love to spend the day wandering through these flower fields —and perhaps taking a photo or two?
6. Iroquois Park
Not only is Iroquois Park home to some beautiful trails, but you'll want to visit for the the Jack-o-lantern Spectacular. My favorite spot is the Iroquois Park Overlook, which provides phenomenal views of the city.
7. Cherokee Park
Fall in Louisville is amazing, and Cherokee Park is the perfect place to check out the fall foliage. To learn about the best times to view the changing leaves,
click here.
8. McNeely Lake
McNeely Lake is one of the best places in Louisville to relax, fish, or hike.
9. Cox Park
https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/carrie-gaulbert-cox-park-louisville?select=IUEfiIkcdoZekwNCldrPeg
Strolling along the river on a nice day is one of my favorite things to do. It may not be an ocean, but the waves are still relaxing to watch and listen to!
These next few natural attractions are not located in Louisville, and require a bit of a drive.
10. Bernheim Forest
This 15,625-acre arboretum, forest, and nature preserve is as picturesque as it is massive. Located just 30 minutes outside of the city, it is also the perfect place to get away from it all. The views are spectacular, including the canopy walk pictured above. To learn more about the canopy walk,
click here.
11 Big Bone Lick State Park
Big Bone Lick State Park is located only an hour from Louisville on I-71 North. The park is home to a free museum with fossils, and a herd of bison. This park is simply one of the most beautiful that you can experience near Louisville, and would be the perfect destination for a family day trip.
12. Mammoth Cave National Park
Another park perfect for a family day trip is the Mammoth Cave National Park, featuring the longest known cave system in the world. This cave is a great place to explore and learn about for children and adults alike.
What’s your favorite nature spot to visit? Let us know in the comments! For more info on places to hike around Louisville, read this article .
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