Today is a very special day that only happens once a year... No, not your birthday... It's National Walking Day! Yes, I said it. The first Wednesday in April is recognized throughout the US as National Walking Day. Sponsored by the American Heart Association, National Walking Day serves as a reminder of all the benefits even a short walk can have on your body. The AHA recommends you take at least 30 minutes out of your day to go out and get moving. The Kentucky Taste Buds crew wants to inspire you all to spend some time doing your body some good and there's no better way than to highlight the best places to take a nature walk in Kentucky! Here's a list of our top picks. We hope you get a chance to go out, enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. Happy National Walking Day!
Northern Kentucky: South Fork Park
If a park-style trail is more your niche, check out South Fork Park in Florence, KY. The park boasts a scenic creekside trail, plus a huge playground, sand volleyball and a basketball court. It's the perfect destination to take a mid-day break and go for a quick walk and outdoor fun. Click here for more information.
Western Kentucky: Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area
If you are located in the western Kentucky area, take some time to visit one of the beautiful walking or hiking trails at the Land Between the Lakes. There's a wide variety of trails great for hiking or biking and enjoying the great outdoors. The trails are open year-round and feature a range routes, allowing you to plan a walk from 1.5 miles to 26 miles. Click here for more information.
Central Kentucky: University of Kentucky/Lexington-Fayette Arboretum
The Arboretum is a beautiful scenic garden with walking trails that's open year-round from dawn to dusk. Spring is one of the best times to visit and see all the fresh blooms and butterflies. This location is a great stop for a lunch break walk with plenty of space to lay out a blanket for a picnic if your heart desires. Click here for more information.
Southern Kentucky: Cumberland Gap National Historical Park
Located just north of the Kentucky-Tennessee-Virginia border in Middlesboro, KY, the Cumberland Gap park is great for those who love scenic mountain views. With a Ridge Trail that spans the entire length of the park and a cool cave to explore, it's definitely an option for turning a typical walk into an adventure. Click here for more information.
South Eastern Kentucky: Sheltowee Trace National Recreation Trail
This is an amazing location for a scenic hike in East Bernstadt, KY. The trail spans a total of 319 miles and features a waterfall, plenty of wildflowers and plants, creeks, the whole nine... If you have a little extra time in your day or over the weekend, you should definitely give this trail a shot. Click here for more information.
Even if you can't make it to one of the fab locations listed above, still get out and take a walk, whether around your neighborhood, at a local park or even on the treadmill. The point is to get moving and enjoy one of the easiest forms of exercise.