LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The weather has been so nice recently it's hard not to think about getting outside. When a walk in the park just won’t cut it, going for a hike is a great way to explore the great outdoors. We asked you for your favorite hiking spots, and these are the top three.
By far, the most recommended spot was Red River Gorge in east-central Kentucky. The options here go way beyond hiking. From the Natural Bridge to ziplining to mountain biking and underground kayaking., you can do It all here.
Much of the Gorge is located inside the Daniel Boone Naitonal Forest and is designated as a National Natural Landmark. It’s also a great place for camping and offers cabins for rent.
Bernheim Forest in Clermont, Kentucky was another popular choice. With more than 16,000 acres of land and 40 miles of trails, there is plenty to explore. There are dozens of different loops and trails you can travel with options for both novice and seasoned hikers.
Bernheim Forest is currently closed due to COVID-19, but members will be allowed back in July, according to the website. Right now, the forest is celebrating 40 years of its Artist in Residency program.
Our last trip takes us to Madison, Indiana for Clifty Falls State Park. Hiking for waterfalls is pretty much in the name here, and that's what makes this park so beautiful.
According to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, the waterfalls at the park “change moods with the weather and seasons and can range from roaring plunges to delicate bridal-veil mists to gleaming frozen titans.” Most of the trails at the park are considered “rugged,” so if you’re a beginner hiker, you may want to hold off on these.
The park is open, but the swimming pool at Clifty Falls will not open for 2020 and water fountains are off, so bring your own water with you. If you want a preview of what you’ll see at the park, check out the YouTube channel Adventures with Roger.
This list just scratches the surface of the great places to hike in our area. If you want to see more, check out these options in Kentucky and these locations in Indiana.
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