Bernheim Forest Giants
If you want to take an amazing day trip you must visit the Bernheim Forest Giants. This has been on my travel bucket list for several years and I am so happy that I finally got to cross it off.
Three forest giants are located in the Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest. This is a 16,137-acre arboretum, forest, and nature preserve located in Clermont, Kentucky. It is approximately 25 miles south of Louisville, Kentucky, United States.
Bernheim was founded in 1929 by Isaac Wolfe Bernheim, a German immigrant and successful brewer whose whiskey distillery business established the I.W. Harper brand. He purchased the land in 1928 at $1 an acre because most of it had been stripped for mining iron ore. The Frederick Law Olmsted landscape architecture firm started work on designing the park in 1931 and it opened in 1950. Bernheim Forest was given to the people of Kentucky in trust and is the largest privately owned natural area in the state. Bernheim, his wife, daughter, and son-in-law are buried in the forest.
It is truly an amazing experience. There is so much to see and do. From nature trails to public workshops and classes it is the perfect backdrop for a picnic lunch. However, the highlight for me was the three amazing forest giants that call Bernheim home. They debuted in March of 2019 and have been an amazing destination for travelers during the pandemic. They do expect (and hope) the giants to remain for up to 5 years pending the weather and treatment of the giants. It is important when you visit not to climb on the giants as that hurts the longevity and lifespan.
When walking through the forest the giants are simply awesome. That is basically the only word I could consider. Be sure to plan a visit! We did pay a $10 suggested fee (per vehicle) for use of the Bernheim Forest. It helps upkeep and maintain the forest. It is open year-round Except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Days from 7:00 am – 8:00 pm.
Best Kentucky Travel Destinations:
Visit Natural Bridge – I may never get to see the 7 wonders of the world, but I did get to see the wonder of Kentucky! If you get the chance, you really need to Visit Natural Bridge located in Slade, Kentucky. We are a hiking family and we had never been to this area.
Road Trip to Rabbit Hash – Step Back in a moment in time! The town is notable for its name, its string of canine mayors, and its historic general store which was largely destroyed by fire in 2016.
Flat Lick Falls – There is nothing more beautiful in Kentucky than Flat Lick Falls. We went to visit this waterfall and had a great time. It is a hidden gem in Jackson County, Kentucky.
The Kentucky Castle – The Kentucky Castle is a unique destination that EVERYONE needs to put on their travel bucket list right here in Central Kentucky. It is not every day that you get the opportunity to stay in a castle.
Cumberland Falls – Cumberland Falls and is known as the Niagara of the South. It is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the South and is definitely one to see. It is located in Corbin, KY.
Red River Gorge Getaway – This is one of the best getaways in Kentucky!
Big Bone Lick State Park – Big Bone Lick State Park is in Union Kentucky and located close to nearby Cincinnati, Ohio for those wanting to check it out. It is a great road trip destination.
Day Trip To Irvine Ky – If you are looking for something fun to do consider a day trip to Irvine KY. We spent the day exploring a distillery in Ravenna which is a city located in Estill County. It is beautiful.
OTHER GREAT THINGS TO DO IN KENTUCKY
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Melissa is a football and soccer mom who has been married to her best friend for 24 years. She loves sharing recipes, travel reviews and tips that focus on helping busy families make memories.
