For those who love the outdoors, Kentucky’s capital city invites you to “take a hike.” There are over 40 miles of hiking trails scattered throughout Franklin County. Whether you’re a casual stroller, a brisk walker or a serious hiker, there’s bound to be a trail just for you.
Easy Meandering
For a leisurely stroll with outdoor art, the trails at Josephine Sculpture Park offer a pleasant walk. If you prefer nature, the 0.5-mile Vaughn Branch Nature Preserve Trail leads to a large sycamore tree, a symbol of the forest ecosystem.
For those seeking a longer hike, Fort Hill in Leslie Morris Park features a 1.2-mile loop with Civil War history, a cave, and city views. The 1.8-mile Thorobred Trail is great for dog walking and bird watching, while the trails at Buckley Wildlife Sanctuary meander through 370 acres of woodlands and meadows.
Intermediate and Expert Hikes
For intermediate hikers, the 1.9-mile Lakeview Park Trail has gentle hills, and the 1.4-mile Riverview Park Trail offers scenic views of the Kentucky River, ending at Buffalo Trace Distillery for a tour and tasting.
For more challenging hikes, Cove Spring Park provides 6.7 miles of trails through wetlands, streams, and forests. Salato Wildlife Center features four miles of trails and diverse wildlife, including elk and bald eagles. The 2.41-mile Pea Ridge Loop is a favorite for its rugged terrain and forested ascents and descents.
At West Sixth Farm, explore four miles of trails near hop fields used by West Sixth Brewing. While most trails cater to intermediate and expert hikers, the 0.7-mile Farm Loop Trail is more accessible. The trails are open for hiking, running, and mountain biking, with additional activities like cornhole and disc golf. Don’t forget to visit the taproom and food truck at West Sixth Cantina for a local brew and a bite to eat.
Hike Highlights
In addition to the hiking trails, Salato has two fully stocked lakes for fishing, and 12 miles of trails open for both hiking and biking at Capitol View Park. As a bonus, some of the trails provide an excellent view of the Kentucky State Capitol Building!
