12 Majestic Spots In Kentucky That Will Make You Feel Like You're At The North Pole
By Rachel Shulhafer|Published December 06, 2016
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Rachel Shulhafer
Author
I grew up in Louisville, Kentucky. I have lived elsewhere twice, but keep coming back. I'm a video editor and freelance writer who enjoys watching people wearing University of Louisville uniforms excel at sports, scaling the faces of large rocks, and hanging out with my border collie/laborador/cattle dog mutt thingy that I have.
With temperatures dropping and the days getting shorter, the first snow fall in the Bluegrass State isn’t too far away. Some people dread snow, and it can be quite a pain. But instead of dreading it, remember that a Kentucky landscape blanketed in snow can be a truly breathtaking sight. These 12 places in Kentucky make winter a little more bearable, and you’ll swear you’re at the North Pole.
Viewing this massive waterfall known as the "Niagra of the South" is pretty awe inspiring during any season, but it's especially gorgeous after a snow. If the temperatures have been super low, it's worth braving the cold to see how frozen the river is.
Like My Old Kentucky Home, Shaker Village is picturesque in the winter. You'll feel like you've stepped back in time as you explore the historic property that seems so peacefully quiet as your boots crunch through the snow.
The town of Ashland in eastern Kentucky goes all out for Christmas. Their Winter Wonderland of Lights Festival is a must-see for Christmas light lovers. Drive through their downtown and Central Park and admire the intricate light displays. For more about Ashland's annual transformation into a magical Christmas town, read our article about everything the town does to celebrate.
There's nothing like Kentucky Horse Country. Driving through the rolling hills around Lexington and Midway makes any Kentuckian's chest swell with pride, but there's something especially elegant about seeing a horse galloping through the snowy hillsides.
Located just south of Louisville, Jefferson Memorial Forest is the largest municipal forest in the country. After a good snow, traverse the knobs and valleys and admire the beauty.
8. Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area, Golden Pond
The Land Between the Lakes is a natural gem of western Kentucky. While it's probably not wise to go swimming in Kentucky Lake or Lake Barkley in the winter, they look absolutely majestic in the snow, as does the surrounding wilderness. Be on the lookout for elk and buffalo!
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9. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, Stearns
Big South Fork is a gorgeous area in southern Kentucky that extends over the border to Tennessee. Like any natural area, Big South Fork is both stunning and peaceful under a blanket of snow. If you visit around the holidays, see if there are any tickets left to take the North Pole Express on the Big South Fork Scenic Railway. Read our article about this special train ride to find out more.
What better way to enjoy a good snow fall than by viewing it from the top of Kentucky's highest mountain peak? Black Mountain has an elevation of 4,145 feet, so you'll have an amazing view from the summit.
Whether you decide to visit Cherokee, Seneca, Iroquois, or Shawnee Parks in Louisville after a snow fall, you will experience a peaceful sense of calm that will almost make you forget you're in a city.
12. McConnell Springs Park, Lexington
Flickr/keithreed01
McConnell Springs Park is a natural area in Lexington that offers nice forested walks and two natural springs. Get a nice escape from city life in this peaceful park.
Like Ashland, Grand Rivers does the holidays right. You don't want to miss their huge displays of twinkling lights at Patti's 1880's Settlement. The thousands of lights illuminating the restaurant will surely get you into the holiday spirit.
Make a snow fall a positive thing by visiting these gorgeous places in Kentucky that could rival the North Pole. For more towns that are absolutely charming in the winter, check out our article about the best Christmas towns in Kentucky.
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