This Quaint Little Trail Is The Shortest And Sweetest Hike In Kentucky
By Andrea Limke|Published June 08, 2018
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Andrea Limke
Author
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
There are times in a Kentuckian’s life when you want to challenge yourself with an invigorating hike through our state’s natural beauty, and when that happens, these hikes under five miles are a few great places to consider. However, there are also times when you want to experience the outdoors, but in a less rigorous manner. If that’s the case, then this quaint little trail is an excellent choice. The McConnell Springs Trail in Lexington has ties to the very beginning of our state and is filled with surprises, all in a short loop hike. This trail is short and sweet and perfect for anyone who just wants a taste of what Kentucky has to offer.
You don't have to be an avid backpacker or outdoor enthusiast to have an appreciation for the natural beauty of Kentucky.
You can even enjoy that beauty with several short and sweet hiking trails throughout the state. In Lexington, McConnell Springs Park is a historic site that has educational opportunities, lovely walking trails, and unique natural features that make it a must-see.
The trail at this park is short at just a 0.6-mile loop, making it perfect for all ages and abilities. It has varied pathways with both boardwalks and dirt, but it's very easy to meander along.
The property has served as the location of a mill, a gunpowder factory, a distillery, and a dairy farm, but has thankfully been brought back to life thanks to the group Friends of McConnell Springs.
It's an easy spot to reach and a true natural wonder. It's not hard to see why this spot has been so popular throughout history for many uses - one of them simply being to relax and enjoy.
The park also includes a fascinating education center and other historic features that make this quick hike worthwhile.
As a historic property and a naturally serene one, it's important to remember to enjoy it, learn from it, and leave absolutely no trace behind so that generations to come can experience this trail that may be short, but is oh-so-sweet.
With waterfront walkways, a thick canopy of trees, and an intriguing history, McConnell Springs is a great family-friendly hike that is appealing for everyone.
McConnell Springs Park is located at 416 Rebmann Ln., Lexington, KY 40504. For more information, visit its website here and follow along with them on Facebook here.
The McConnell Springs Trail may be short, but with a blue hole, boardwalk pathways, and plenty of plant and wildlife, it’s filled with the sweetest of surprises. Have you walked through this hidden gem in Lexington? What other short hikes in Kentucky do you take when you just want to get outdoors? Let us know in the comments!
