The Best 13 Hikes in Louisville, Kentucky (A Local’s Guide)

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If there are three issues that make Louisville (and all of Kentucky) particular, it’s bourbon, horses, and exquisite forested landscapes. However individuals don’t discuss Louisville’s pure magnificence sufficient! Like, do you know that Louisville is dwelling to the USA’s largest city forest? Or an enormous city park designed by Frederick Legislation Olmsted, who additionally designed NYC’s Central Park? Louisville is approach under-the-radar, y’all.

Whether or not you’re exploring an city park in central Louisville, searching down an deserted theme park, stress-free on a seashore (sure, actually!), exploring caves and waterfalls, or befriending wildlife (ethically) within the forest, Louisville – and simply outdoors of it – has tons of alternatives to place in your climbing boots, strap in your hydro pack, and get out in nature!

This information to the most effective hikes in Louisville was written by Sensible Wanderlust’s personal Editor-in-Chief Richie Goff, Louisville resident and avid hiker. Take it away, Richie!

Psst: Planning extra adventures in Louisville? We have now a BUNCH of posts about Louisville! It’s my hometown, in spite of everything! Have a look under at our different Louisville journey guides.

We even have a Podcast episode all about Louisville! Horse races, bourbon, baseball bats, and a…dying tunnel? At the moment we inform the story of Lia’s hometown: Louisville, KY! We hint the historical past of town from its frontier origins to the modern-day. Louisville’s historical past runs deep, and it’s not all the time fairly. So pour your self a bourbon and tune in. Until you’re driving – that’s not cool.

Pay attention above or just click here to launch your Podcast app! Oh, and don’t neglect to subscribe so that you don’t miss new episodes.

Oh! We’ve additionally compiled all of our strategies for the place to go, what to do, the place to go to, what & the place to eat, and what & the place to drink (and style bourbon) into one downloadable PDF Native’s Information to Louisville. Subscribe under to get the obtain and put it aside to your smartphone or pill to take with you in your journey to Louisville! We’ll additionally ship you our favourite insider ideas for visiting.

Climbing in Louisville: Issues to Know

Listed here are a couple of ideas and tips that will help you head off onto the paths on the proper foot.

• Most of Louisville’s finest hikes are outdoors of Louisville. Although there are many stunning parks in Louisville, there are much more state parks and forests outdoors of town limits. An hour drive or much less will take you to a number of the finest hikes within the space.
• Spring and Fall are the most effective time to hike. Climbing in spring will showcase Kentucky’s stunning wildflowers, and fall showcases colourful, altering leaves. Summer season can also be good – however sizzling – so plan to hike early on summer season days.
• Bug repellant is your good friend. Throughout the hotter months in Kentucky (Could-September), not solely are the mosquitoes operating rampant however there’s additionally ticks! In case you are a main all-you-can-eat blood financial institution like me, for the sake of your pores and skin get some good bug repellent. You may also spray your garments earlier than you go along with Permethrin spray for additional safety.
• Respect our stunning wilderness. Please keep in mind to comply with all Leave No Trace Principles. They assist to maintain this land what it’s:  wild, pretty, pristine and wholesome.
• Be respectful of wildlife. When you are not prone to see greater than deer, birds and squirrels whereas climbing, do remember that there are snakes and coyotes within the forest as effectively. Give all animals a large berth, and remember they’re extra petrified of you than you might be of them.
• In case you’re an ecowarrior, deliver a trash bag with you. I all the time discover it a bit disheartening to see trash alongside the path, so I attempt to deliver just a little trash bag and choose particles up alongside the best way. Gloves can also be a very good name, and don’t attempt selecting up damaged glass or rusted cans (not that I do know from expertise…).
• Be respectful of others’ climbing expertise. This implies hold your voice / music down for others to take pleasure in their hike. Nothing irks me greater than listening to individuals screaming or blaring music for everybody to listen to inside a mile radius. Impolite.

The Finest Hikes in Louisville

There isn’t a scarcity of implausible locations to hike in Louisville! Most Louisville climbing trails are in their very own park techniques, every of which has a myriad of climbing trails to select from.

I’ve listed the most effective parks for climbing in Louisville, and my suggestions for climbing trails inside every park. 

Cherokee Park

Cherokee Park is a giant, stunning park designed by Frederick Legislation Olmsted winding proper by the Highlands, the artsy, historic neighborhood in the course of Louisville.

Cherokee Park is hilly and forested over 389 acres, and thru it winds a myriad of strolling paths, climbing trails, and biking routes.

It even boasts a 2.4 mile scenic loop that you would be able to stroll or do by automobile when you’re the sort of one that doesn’t get misplaced simply and is ready to comply with indicators (the key is to maintain turning left to remain within the park, and switch proper to exit!).

Whereas the scenic loop is sweet, it’s not fairly an immersive pure expertise. So let’s trek into the forest!

Cherokee Park Path

• Distance: 4.8 miles | Elevation Achieve: 393ft | Issue: Straightforward | Trail Guide 

Whereas many guests to Cherokee park spend most of their time on the paved Scenic Loop, the actual magic of Cherokee is discovered on the Cherokee Park Path, a meandering loop that takes you thru the true coronary heart of Cherokee Park.

The path isn’t significantly troublesome, it takes you up and down rolling, forested hills, passing by oaks and tulip poplar bushes, throughout meadows and by rolling creeks. The wonderful thing about the path is that you would be able to just about enter from wherever: the path opens up and crosses numerous elements of the scenic loop so you’ll be able to hop on, or off, everytime you like. 

Alongside the loop, additionally, you will see loads of birds, just like the cardinal, blue jay, hummingbirds, hawks, owls, and heron, and there may be even a chicken sanctuary alongside the path for extra critical ornithologists. Springtime is an particularly stunning time to hike the loop: look down, and you will notice colorful spring flowers like yellow woodland poppies, white trout lilies, bluebells, and trillium.

The forests of Cherokee Park are nonetheless very a lot within the heart of Louisville – although it doesn’t really feel significantly city – so you’ll be able to anticipate to see many hikers, joggers, and bikers on this path, but it surely’s additionally lengthy sufficient that you’ll positively get some alone time. 

Jefferson Memorial Forest

Jefferson Memorial Forest is the most effective place to go to get away from town (whereas nonetheless being inside Louisville’s borders). Positioned simply half-hour from downtown, Jefferson Memorial seems like stepping out into undisturbed nature.

Which makes lots of sense as a result of, at 6,500 acres, it’s the largest municipal urban forest in the US! I guess you didn’t see that one coming, did you?

Residence to a lake and a delegated Wildlife Refuge, Jefferson Memorial can also be the place you’ll discover extra rugged and difficult hikes. Certain, we don’t have actual mountains, however we’ve some fairly steep hills, okay?

So when you wanna get away from all of it and get a style for some true Kentucky b̶o̶u̶r̶b̶o̶n̶ nature, listed below are two glorious climbing trails:

Scott’s Hole Path

• Distance: 3.3 miles | Elevation Achieve: 776ft | Issue: Reasonable-Troublesome | Trail Guide

Beginning on the aptly named Scott’s Hole car parking zone, this hike will actually offer you a really feel of the tougher Kentucky terrain however will reward you with some of the gorgeous hikes within the Louisville space.

I recommend taking this path counter-clockwise though it’ll make the primary a part of this hike tougher, climbing up a fairly steep 180 ft. climb to the highest of a knob, however you’ll instantly be rewarded with a beautiful view of the rolling hills of Kentucky. 

From the beautiful overlook, you’ll head alongside the ridgeline, canopies of bushes overhead with dipping ravines and hills throughout. At simply over just a little of a half-mile you’ll come to a “shortcut” route, and when you select, you’ll be able to head again to the trailhead and solely do a 1.3 mile loop. However hey, you’ll miss the most effective half!

As you hike deeper into the forest, you’ll lose elevation, getting nearer to the forest ground and taking in lush, Jurassic-looking ferns subsequent to the deep purple clay of Kentucky. Additionally, hold your eyes peeled for a rainbow myriad of mushrooms – I went in late July and photographed over 20 completely different varieties.

This path actually highlights the most effective a part of Kentucky’s terrain, so this isn’t one to skip!

Yost Ridge Path to Mitchell Lake Path

• Distance: 3.2 miles | Elevation Achieve: 800ft | Issue: Reasonable | Trail Guide

For this explicit hike, you’ll begin on the Jefferson Memorial Welcome Center, which is a good place to study Jefferson Memorial Forest, choose up a path map, and hit the bogs earlier than you enterprise out.

The primary a part of this hike takes you to the highest of the ridge, and when you hold your eyes peeled, you’ll be able to typically get a glimpse of downtown Louisville by the bushes 7 miles away (within the winter it’s simply seen!). 

After 1.1 miles of winding ridgeline, you’ll attain an indication for Mitchell Lake Path and comply with it down, deeper into the woods lined with pine bushes, flecks of solar breaking by the cover of bushes.

You’ll ultimately attain one other fork for the loop across the pond: I recommend going to the left, and whereas it’s going to take longer to get to the water, after a brief preliminary ascent most of it’s downhill by lush ferns to the lake.

The lake itself is sunny and brilliant, and the proper place to eat a picnic lunch! There are picnic benches simply because of this, so take a load off and revel in this secluded and comfortable spot. 

Since this path begins from the Welcome Heart, anticipate it to be just a little extra crowded than a number of the different Jefferson Memorial Trails.

Harrods Creek Park

Positioned about 20 minutes from downtown within the suburb of Prospect, Harrods Creek is positioned in a subdivision referred to as Looking Creek. So don’t be confused if you’re directed to drive up into a flowery neighborhood whereas pondering “this may’t be proper, a spot to hike, right here?!” It’s true! Typically we conceal fabulous parks in fancy neighborhoods. (See additionally: Cherokee Park and the Highlands.)

You may both park on the street by the “Harrods Creek” signal and hike the path in, or drive down a slender street and attempt to park on this planet’s tiniest car parking zone. I recommend the primary choice. 

Blue Path / Orange Path

• Distance: 2.2 miles | Elevation Achieve: 370ft | Issue: Straightforward | Trail Guide

After parking on Montero Drive, you’ll hike down into the forest by just a little stream which can take you to the car parking zone you didn’t park at. From there you’ll comply with indicators onto the blue trail, which is a rolling little path that may take you right into a properly shaded forest. 

Alongside the best way, you’ll discover two lookout factors with swinging benches, the place you’ll be able to sit and benefit from the views of rolling meadows under. You may simply sit and simply take pleasure in nature, it’s allowed!

This path additionally crosses little creeks on quaint picket bridges and previous large moss-covered boulders that I prefer to suppose are fairy house complexes.

The blue path itself is fairly quick, and after a mile, you’ll attain what you got here right here for – the seashore! It’s a small however sandy seashore, but it surely’s the proper place to cease and relaxation for some time.

In the summertime you can find individuals picnicking on the shore, and wading within the cool, shallow water. Harrods Creek can also be a well-liked kayaking spot, so you may even see individuals cruising down the river.

Do remember that the alternative aspect of the creek is non-public property, so be respectful of the place you snoop round.

On the best way again, you’ll be able to both take the Blue path again or the Orange path. The Orange path is identical distance however will take you strolling by the valley part that may be seen from the swinging benches. Whereas a number of the Orange path is shaded, most sections go away you uncovered to the solar so watch out on sunny days!

The Parklands of Floyds Fork

The Parklands of Floyds Fork is positioned about 20 miles away from downtown, the place you’ll discover a extra rural a part of town and one of many greatest parks in Louisville!

Whereas I name it a “park”, it’s really 4 separate parks that span over 4000 acres. This place is severely ENORMOUS! You are able to do so many actions right here, together with exploring 60-miles of climbing trails. Who is aware of, you could even see a monster or two.

• Word from Lia: That is proper close to the household farm the place I grew up! And sure, the Pope Lick Monster and the haunted prepare trellis are very a lot a part of native lore…

Wild Hyacinth Path

Distance: 2 miles | Elevation Achieve: 144ft | Issue: Reasonable | Trail Guide

The Wild Hyacinth Path is positioned in Turkey Run Park, and let me inform you, it’s a gem. I solely just lately hiked it for this publish, after seeing individuals raving about how that is the most effective hike within the Parklands. Inside the first couple minutes of climbing this path, I began speaking to a fellow hiker and I instructed him it was my first time climbing this path, and he stated, “this can be the most effective hike in the entire park.” Information are info, America.

To seek out the trailhead you will want to park within the Ben Stout House car parking zone, then take the paved path throughout the road. You’ll instantly dip right into a deep lush forest then throughout a hilly meadow, the place you can find all kinds of wildflowers dotting the hills. There are black-eyed susans, echinacea, milkweed, and loads of different colourful flowers with busy bees flitting from side to side.

When you head again into the forest, you’ll climb up and down rolling hills, passing alongside shallow streams and creeks.

When you end this stretch, you’ll go throughout the paved Louisville Loop, the primary pedestrian artery of the park, and the estimated 100-mile lengthy loop that may ultimately encircle town (keep tuned).

Head again into the forest and you’ll come to a fork within the street: what to do! Effectively, it’s a loop, so go to the proper or left (for this path, it actually doesn’t matter)!

Across the loop, you’ll go luscious ferns, slender tree-lined sections, and over shallow streams with limestone rock formations that are actually enjoyable to discover. This actually has all of the surroundings you’d need in a hike; don’t miss it!

Moss Gibbs Woodland Backyard Path

Distance: 1.1 miles | Elevation Achieve: 147ft | Issue: Straightforward | Trail Guide

Positioned in Broadrun Park, the Moss Gibbs Woodland Backyard Path is a straightforward hike, however one which packs in lots of wildlife in just a little area. 

The Parklands designed the Moss Gibbs Woodland Garden to indicate off the most effective of Kentucky native shade vegetation, overlaying this woodland hillside with 1000’s of native perennials, like mayapple, in addition to different shrubs and ferns. The thought was to create “areas throughout the undergrowth that really feel like rooms”, and that’s precisely what you’ll be able to anticipate climbing by this woodland path.

This path takes you up a forested hillside alongside Floyds Fork, the primary stream that cuts by the park, with gorgeous overlooks of the water (and there are trails to take you down if you would like a better look).

Alongside the best way, there are benches, little trails that department off (like one with elevated stepping stones), and plenty of whimsical, creative touches, like a stone arch bridge that was made within the conventional approach of interlocking rocks.

This path feels extra like a magical expertise, passing a big Venerable Oak, a Cathedral of cedars, and even a piece named the “Backyard of Whimsy”.

Whereas this hike will not be for individuals in search of a blood-pumping expertise, it’s positively price trying out to see what will be created with native vegetation, creativeness, and just a little ingenuity. 

The Finest Hikes Close to Louisville

In case you don’t thoughts touring about thirty minutes to an hour outdoors town, there are a couple of extra climbing trails you must positively try. The additional journey time provides to the attract (I feel) and typically a day journey is simply what you have to join with nature!

Right here’s the place to go for the most effective climbing close to Louisville, and my suggestions for climbing trails in every spot.

Bernheim Forest

Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest is positioned about 30 miles south of Louisville, and is effectively well worth the drive to find the 16,137 acres of land and over 40 miles of climbing trails.

Bernheim is a well-curated nature sanctuary – from their stunning welcome center and cafe, to their big range of events and programming (hi there, night hikes!), to the myriad of sculptures and art across the park. It’s the entire package deal!

The land for Bernheim was initially offered by Isaac Wolf Bernheim in 1929, who devoted this land as a present to the individuals of his new homeland after emigrating from Germany.  Bernheim believed that land and nature are vital for the guts, thoughts, and spirit, and that it’s regenerative for all individuals, no matter race, creed, or financial standing. And you already know what? It’s!

Forest Giants Path

• Distance: 2 miles | Elevation Achieve: 50ft | Issue: Straightforward | Trail Guide

The largest attraction at Bernheim are the well-known Forest Giants, a group of three larger-than-life giants that had been created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo from pure supplies from the area. The giants have develop into the enduring marker of Bernheim, and folks flock to see these 30’+ pure statues. You may even learn a fairytale story concerning the Giants here!

The 2-mile out-and-back path takes you throughout Bernheim, ranging from the Customer Heart. The primary a part of the pathway is paved and takes you alongside the Olmstead Ponds, the place you can find the primary Large Little Nis, gazing his reflection within the pond. From there, you cross the Large Prairie – an expansive stretch of land in the course of the park which has native grasses and wildflowers. 

When you’ve crossed the prairie, you’ll enter the Solar and Shade Loop which can take you to the second large – Mama Loumari! Mama Loumari reposes together with her hand on her stomach, pregnant with a brand new child large.

The ultimate part of the path will take you throughout a number of bridges of Lake Nevin, previous the cypress tupelo swamp and magnolia bushes, to see the ultimate large, Little Elina, who sits by her lonesome holding a rock. 

Whereas this hike is generally paved and fairly straightforward, lots of it’s uncovered by bushes so be sure to put on a sunhat and sunscreen. Additionally, arriving when the park opens will allow you to to be climbing with fewer individuals since it is a well-liked path.

Elm Lick Path

• Distance: 5 miles | Elevation Achieve: 646ft | Issue: Troublesome | Trail Guide

The primary time I ever did the Elm Lick Path in Bernheim I used to be on a path operating kick, so determined to run this in the course of summer season with little or no water. Don’t do that. 5 miles is a fairly lengthy distance in the summertime with out water, and your hike will likely be much more fulfilling (and safer) with fluids!

That being stated, it is a beautiful hike close to the again of Bernheim forest. Right here you’ll actually really feel away from town, and even the extra well-liked elements of Bernheim forest. It’s quiet, serene, and actually provides you the impression of being out by yourself within the wilderness.

The path is a loop, and both approach you go you’ll be descending about 646ft all the way down to the forest ground from the hills above. Going clockwise will take you down a collection of switchbacks, whereas going counterclockwise will take you on a steeper descent – I’d take into consideration which one you’d slightly do on the finish of your hike!

On the forest ground, you’ll go over creeks and riverbeds, see irises (in spring) and different forest flora, and even encounter an outdated grain silo from ages previous. The forest is expansive throughout you and there are many locations to cease for a picnic lunch, and a myriad of mushrooms to gander at as you hike alongside. 

• Professional Tip: After your hike you should definitely try the Cover Tree Stroll, which is positioned a brief drive from the path. The bridge takes you 75-feet over the forest cover and is completely gorgeous in fall when you’ll be able to see the brilliant purple, orange, and yellow leaves!

Charlestown State Park

This park is technically in Charlestown, Indiana, however at solely half-hour away from downtown Louisville, we’re lumping this one into “Kentuckiana“.

This is without doubt one of the finest locations inside a stone’s throw of Louisville to hike, and it’s an enormous 15,000-acre park that many Louisviillians haven’t taken the time to discover. And what’s extra, it’s proper on the Ohio river, that means some trails have river views! It’s palms down top-of-the-line locations to go climbing close to Louisville.

It’s a state park, so entry in the course of the hotter months is $7 for Indiana residents and $9 for out-of-state guests.

Oh, and there’s a Nineteen Twenties deserted amusement park / resort. Whaaaaat?! Sure, y’all: welcome to Rose Island.

Path 3 / Path 7 (Rose Island Loop)

• Distance: 3 miles | Elevation Achieve: 370ft | Issue: Reasonable | Trail Guide

So that you’re right here for some Nineteen Twenties deserted amusement park lore, proper? Good, I believed you is perhaps! Initially, the island was bought by the Louisville Ferry Firm in 1881, and have become a well-liked cease for fancy Victorian vacationers on riverboat excursions from Louisville and different cities down the river. 

In 1923 it grew to become Rose Island – although it’s actually a peninsula – when it was bought by businessman David Rose (no, not that David Rose) to develop into a summer season resort. He added an amusement park with a small picket curler coaster, a dance corridor, golf course, eating amenities, riverfront cottages, the Rose Island Lodge, and even a zoo with a wolf, monkeys, and a bear named “Teddy Rosevelt”. You recognize, every thing you want as a flowery Victorian vacationer to maintain your self amused.

Rose Island operated till the Great Flood of 1937 that submerged 70% of Louisville, which actually put a damper on the vibe and it was left deserted.

For pictures of Rose Island in its heyday, try this website.

At the moment, you’ll be able to uncover the ruins of a bygone period by taking creatively named Path 3 down a steep, paved path (and I imply steep, you do must be in first rate form to get again up it!) to the Rose Island Bridge, which can take you over to the ruins of what was as soon as a jazz age hotspot.

Whereas there isn’t a ton to see there now, you’ll be able to go to the outdated swimming pool (now full of gravel), the outdated dance corridor ruins, and the central stroll with massive iron archways which had been as soon as garlanded with roses. Alongside the best way, there are interpretive indicators, and you will get near the water and see the place the ghosts of yesteryear would have arrived by boat. 

When you’re completed exploring the park, you’ll take Path 3 again by the woods, passing by large moss-covered boulders and towering bushes. Or you’ll be able to merely hike again up the paved path, which on a summer season day is unshaded, so positively put on a hat and sunscreen.

Path 6

• Distance: 2.3 miles | Elevation Achieve: 249ft | Issue: Reasonable | Trail Guide

Path 6 is true down by the river, on the farthest finish of the park. It’s a lovely drive simply to get there, passing by forests and meadows and all the luxurious greenery that inhabits the river’s edge. Driving to this path additionally provides you a really feel for a way large this park actually is.

When you get down by the water, park on the first car parking zone you see (the Riverside Overlook), not the second (Charlestown Touchdown)! In case you have a look at this map you will notice the trailhead is reverse the Riverside Overlook – it’s straightforward to overlook when you’re not preserving your eyes peeled.

The primary time I visited this path I parked at Charlestown Touchdown and walked round for a small eternity making an attempt to determine the place the F the rattling trailhead was. Ultimately, I needed to ask an worker. So don’t make the identical mistake I did!

This path first takes you thru a stretch of dense forest, then up a steep little part till you attain the highest of a river bluff. From there you’ll be able to see the dashing Ohio river by the bushes as you make your approach deeper alongside the bluff into the forest, crossing a bridge over a waterfall.

Alongside the best way you’ll see colourful mushrooms and listen to birds singing within the tree cover above, in addition to stone ruins of outdated buildings. As you close to the top of the bluff, you’ll come to a meadow coated in wildflowers (particularly in spring). Then, the path then winds all the way down to take you again to road degree. 

The final stretch is alongside the underside of the river bluff, with towering limestone to your proper. Ultimately, it turns right into a gravel street as you go an outdated ammunition plant, main you again to the car parking zone the place you began.

Deam Lake

Positioned about half-hour from downtown Louisville, Deam Lake State Recreation Area is positioned in Carr Township, Indiana. The drive into rural Indiana is pastoral and peaceable; it’s good to go away town behind, isn’t it?

Most guests to Deam Lake are coming to swim within the heat water and loosen up on the sandy seashore: Deam Lake is the most effective and closest seashore to Louisville, and makes a implausible summer season day journey. However within the cooler months, it’s additionally an exquisite place to go climbing.

The 194-acre lake was fabricated in 1965 – sure, it’s a man-made lake – and named after Charles Deam, Indiana’s first state forester. It’s arduous to imagine this lake was constructed and never all the time there, with whitetail deer, turkey, and foxes operating about, milkweed lining the lake, and all the opposite wildlife which have thrived within the new atmosphere. 

Knobstone Path

• Distance: 2 miles~ | Elevation Achieve: 100ft~ | Issue: Straightforward | Trail Guide

Knobstone Path is a path. What I imply by that’s that’s really 60 miles lengthy and the longest within the state of Indiana! When you may hike all of this when you’re a hardcore hiker, the abridged model is extra leisurely, and I feel, a nicer technique to spend a day.

The actual purpose I like the path is that, after a quick descent into the woods, you come alongside a grassy path that takes you throughout a grassy dam on the southern a part of the lake. Wildflowers blow within the breeze off the lake and you’ll watch swimmers, boaters, and kayakers within the distance. This can be a excellent spot to deliver a picnic and really feel such as you’re in a Studio Ghibli movie; it’s extremely pastoral and stress-free.

You may hold heading throughout and up into the woods, which can take you on a reasonably large ascent and afford fairly lake views from a better elevation, ultimately taking you up north previous the lake altogether.

However personally, I recommend strolling throughout the scenic dam after which treating your self to a swim within the lake from the sandy seashore!

You’ll discover the Knobstone Trailhead by making a proper on the primary street you come throughout when you enter the park.

Clifty Falls State Park

Positioned about an hour from Louisville within the charming metropolis of Madison, Indiana, Clifty Falls State Park has trails surrounding a canyon, with waterfalls spilling from spectacular precipices into the depths under. It additionally has a number of bat caves and has a number of the extra elevated climbing trails within the space. 

Trails #5 (Tunnel Falls to Lily Memorial)

• Distance: 1.75 miles | Elevation Achieve: 305ft | Issue: Reasonable | Trail Guide

Trails #5 is a 1.75 mile out and again path, taking you alongside the tree-lined, limestone cliffs. From the car parking zone, you’ll take a protracted set of stairs down till you attain the path alongside the precipice of the cliff. In case you are seeking to see a waterfall, fortunate for you, there’s one proper there!

Casacading into the gorge under is 83′ Tunnel Falls, which is the biggest within the park and one of many largest in Indiana. In keeping with the park website, the waterfalls within the park “change moods with the climate and the seasons and might vary from roaring plunges to delicate bridal-veil mists to gleaming frozen titans.” Positively an excuse to go to throughout all seasons!

As you proceed alongside the embankment with the towering cliffside in your left of you and the gorge in your proper, you’ll cross numerous picket bridge and go lush shade-loving vegetation like ferns. Quickly you’ll method the star of this path: the bat cave!

What was initially dug as a prepare tunnel in 1852 after which deserted, the 600-foot lengthy cave is now dwelling to bats which hibernate within the late fall by the winter. You may hike although the cave from Could 1st – October thirty first, and although the cave isn’t too lengthy it’s nonetheless fairly darkish and damp, so you should definitely deliver a headlamp. Inside you’ll discover a small waterfall and a pool, and hold your eyes peele for cave spiders, bats, and red-spotted salamanders – all the higher purpose to have a lightweight supply!

When you exit the cave, you’ll comply with alongside the gorge extra till you attain the street. You may comply with the street again, however climbing the path again will likely be extra scenic. And you’ll enterprise into the bat cave…. once more!

Need to make a time out of it? Madison is one in every of our favourite weekend getaways in Indiana – read this post for extra particulars.

Abbey of Gethsemani

About an hour-long drive outdoors of Louisville, near town of Bardstown (of Bourbon distillery fame) is the Abbey of Gethsemani, which is understood for its well-known Trappist Monk Thomas Merton.

The Abbey continues to be a working monastery, and what lots of people don’t know is that it additionally has 1,500 acres of forests, lakes, and knobs to discover, making it top-of-the-line alternatives for climbing close to Louisville!

Path to the Statues

• Distance: 2 miles | Elevation Achieve: 124ft | Issue: Straightforward | Trail Guide

In case you haven’t been to Gethsemani earlier than, the remoteness and solitude of the monastery surrounded by bushes, fields, and nature will certainly deliver on an on the spot feeling of calmness. What might disrupt your chill, nonetheless, is looking for the dang traiheadl!

The primary time I visited I couldn’t determine it out, however as soon as you already know the place it’s it’s easy. Cross Monks Highway (the street you got here in on) and head north till you come throughout just a little opening within the woods with an indication that claims “path to statues”.

The path itself is a straightforward, 2-ish mile out and again path. The primary half takes you thru the woods till you come throughout a giant pond, which in the summertime, is full of enormous, blooming lotuses. From there, you’ll take a set of steep stairs that may take you alongside a ridge within the woods, passing spiritual statues and numerous rock formations. Within the spring, trout lilies line the path as effectively.

As you get nearer to the “Statues” correct, you’ll go bigger and extra spectacular statues, like one of many Virgin Mary in a stark, smooth, fashionable model.

Ultimately, the forest opens as much as vast, rolling hills, however you’ll hug one other forested space to move into the Statues forest, which is a small loop with depictions of the Stations of the Cross.

Even when you aren’t significantly spiritual, this hike is well worth the drive from Louisville for such a distant slice of nature.

Bonus: Even Extra Louisville Hikes!

Look, there may be NO scarcity of fantastic hikes in Louisville, KY and the adjoining areas. However I haven’t finished all of them, and this publish is already fairly darn lengthy.

So, I wished to share with you the remainder of the hikes on my To Do record! Lots of them had been sourced from my neighbor who’s an avid hiker (and Sensible Wanderlust reader, hello Ben!) in addition to my very own analysis.

I hope you don’t thoughts that I haven’t included a complete write-up for every of those – however after I full them, I’ll!

• Millennium Trail, Bernheim Forest. 13.75 miles, 2,280 ft elevation acquire. That is by far the longest path in Bernheim, so lengthy that you have to verify in on the customer’s heart or on the trailhead earlier than beginning (in order that they know who returns… and who doesn’t). In keeping with the web site it takes 6-7 hours to finish, and the path “winds by ridges of oak-hickory forests to valleys and streams of beech-maple forests” which sounds frankly gorgreous.
• Coral Ridge Loop, Jefferson Memorial Forest. 2.9 miles, 328 ft elevation acquire. This loop affords you beautiful views of wildflowers, loads of shade, and a surprising view of Louisville within the north!
• Otter Creek Trail, Otter Creek Outside Recreation Space. 8.6 miles, 721 ft elevation acquire. I’ve by no means been to Otter Creek, but it surely appears so darn fairly. There are many shorter trails you’ll be able to take as effectively. There may be additionally a spot to swim on the blue gap swimming space – I’m there!
• Rocky Ridge Bike and Hike Trail, Harrison-Crawford State Forest. 2 miles, 200 ft elevation acquire. This loop path goes by deep ravines, up scenic rocky slopes, and has gorgeous views of the Blue River. Feels like a winner!
• Garvin Brown Nature Preserve, Prospect, Louisville. 2ish miles, flat. Whereas this isn’t a lot of a correct hike, this 46-acre nature protect is the proper place to stroll down by the Ohio river and revel in wildflowers and sunshine.
• Iroquois Park Overlook, Iroquois Park. 1.2 miles, 213 ft elevation acquire. Iroquois Park is one other Louisville Olmsted Park, and the actual gem of it’s the overlook on the prime! Hike your approach up and be rewarded with beautiful views of town within the distance. You’re welcome.

Day Climbing Necessities

Earlier than we ship you off in your hike, listed below are our absolute must-have day climbing necessities.

• 50-100oz of water: Deliver water! Significantly, don’t skimp. We all the time deliver a Hydration Pack full of clear water and snacks. You’ll nonetheless have room for the remainder of our gear, too. 
• Climbing Footwear & Socks: We prefer to hike in Path Runners (his & hers) slightly than heavy obligation climbing boots – they’re light-weight and journey pleasant, extra versatile and cozy, and so they dry tremendous shortly when it rains or after a water crossing, so your ft will keep toasty and check out. Pair them with well-made wool socks. Our favourite wool sock model is Darn Tough: they’re smooth, sturdy, and they arrive with a lifetime assure within the occasion of holes (that’s how you already know it’s actual). When issues begin getting moist, pull a pair waterproof socks on over prime of your wool socks to maintain your ft dry and blister-free.
• Solar & Warmth Safety: On uncovered trails, even when it’s chilly you’ll be getting numerous solar publicity. Slather on high SPF sunscreen on any uncovered pores and skin, together with SPF chapstick to guard your lips. To guard your self from noon warmth, hold a bandana or buff round your neck so you’ll be able to soak it in water and hold your core temperature down – or use it as a tieback on your hair. Sun shades and a sun hat go a protracted technique to defending your face and eyes from the solar as effectively.
• Snacks:  A hungry hike is a depressing hike! All the time deliver a snack, even for a brief hike, simply in case your hike goes on longer than deliberate. You need one thing nutritious, with a very good combine of complicated carbs, fat, protein, and electrolytes to gas your physique. My favourite climbing snacks are peanut butter stuffed pretzels, dried fruit (like apple rings or dried mango), and almonds.
• Headlamps: If there’s any likelihood you’ll be beginning your hike earlier than daybreak, climbing after darkish, or exploring a cave, deliver a very good headlamp like this one to mild your approach hands-free. They’re small and light-weight and simply slot in any pack. Deliver one. YES, even on a day hike! You by no means know when you may want it and when you do, you’ll be SO glad you introduced it. (After our disastrous night-hiking incident in Cataract Falls, I’ll by no means hike and not using a headlamp once more even once I’m beginning effectively after daybreak.)
• First Aid Kit: You want a primary assist equipment that covers you within the occasion of quite a lot of calamities. We occur to be catastrophe magnets, so we’ve whipped ours out a couple of instances. Your first assist equipment doesn’t must be large – this one is fairly small – but it surely ought to have the fundamentals. In case you’re DIY-ing your individual, we suggest together with bandaids, sterile alcohol wipes, waterproof matches, burn and chunk therapy, and moleskin patches for if you really feel a blister approaching, which may simply change your quick tempo right into a disastrously sluggish one! You should definitely embrace a compass as effectively.
• Whistle: This teeny tiny little device takes up no area in your pack however is an extremely helpful emergency device. Not solely does a whistle assist sign individuals off within the distance when you ought to develop into harm, but it surely can be useful in scaring off wildlife predators.
• Emergency Walkie-Talkies: I do know these Radio Signaling Walkie-Talkies are overkill for many hikes. However when you’re going just a little additional away from civilization or heading into probably dicey climate circumstances, these simply may save your a$$. These unhealthy boys have a 35-mile mountain to valley vary, are absolutely waterproof (and also have a water-activated flashlight, nifty), and have a useful emergency alert button that may despatched out a sign the minute you need assistance. Certain, you’ll most likely by no means want to make use of them…  however consider them as the most effective insurance coverage coverage you’ll ever purchase.

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About Our Visitor Poster: Richie Goff is a Louisville native and has an incredible love of the outside. When he’s not rising flowers for enjoyable (and typically revenue), he’s the Editor-in-Chief of Sensible Wanderlust. He has been a good friend of Lia’s since highschool, and so they have taken loads of their very own diaster-prone adventures collectively!

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