Getting outside with your kids is a great way to bond and create lasting memories, and The Parklands of Floyds Fork offers a variety of kid-friendly trails that are perfect for family adventures! Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, our trails provide a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the beauty of nature together.

A family hike at The Parklands is a chance to unplug from screens and allows kids to learn about the environment, observe wildlife, and develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Moreover, hiking promotes physical fitness, boosts mood, and enhances overall well-being for trailblazers of any age. It’s a great way to foster a sense of curiosity, wonder, and a love for outdoor exploration!

Here are some of our top picks for kid-friendly hikes in The Parklands:

Photo by HikeLouisville, Petra Palmer

Osage Orange Trail

Beckley Creek Park

Distance 0.45 miles

Located in Beckley Creek Park just behind the Creekside Playground and Spraygrounds, the Osage Orange Trail is a short and easy hike that’s ideal for younger children or those new to hiking. The trail winds through beautiful wooded areas, offering glimpses of local wildlife and plenty of opportunities to learn about nature.

Photo by HikeLouisville, Petra Palmer

Prairie Preserve Trail

Pope Lick Park

Distance 1.15 miles one-way

Pope Lick Park’s Prairie Preserve Trail is a bit longer but still manageable for kids. This gravel path stretches 1.15 miles in one direction and can be made into a round trip using the paved Louisville Loop. Prairie Preserve trail takes you through a scenic meadow landscape where you can spot wildflowers, birds, butterflies, and sometimes even a deer or two. It’s a great trail for introducing children to different ecosystems and habitats.

Photo by HikeLouisville, Petra Palmer

Boone Bottoms Trail

Turkey Run Park

Distance 1.2 miles

Park at the Ben Stout House in Turkey Run Park to access Boone Bottoms Trail, a soft-surface trail that meanders along Floyds Fork, offering peaceful views of the water and surrounding woodlands. Kids will love exploring along the creek banks and discovering the natural beauty of this area. Get a preview of this trail on our YouTube channel!

Photo by Maria Koerner

Woodland Garden Trail

Broad Run Park

Distance 0.9 miles

The Woodland Garden Trail, nestled behind the Ogle Foundation Woodland Pavilion in Broad Run Park, is perfect for families looking to immerse themselves in a lush, wooded environment. The trail features beautiful gardens, towering trees, and peaceful alcoves, making it a tranquil retreat for both kids and adults alike.

Additional Options:

• Riparian Ramble Trail (1.2 miles one-way, Broad Run Park) and Wild Hyacinth Trail (1.47 miles, Turkey Run Park) are also wonderful choices for families seeking a bit more adventure. These trails offer longer distances and opportunities to see impressive trees and diverse wildlife, while still being low enough in intensity for family hikes.
• For older kids with a love for literature and creativity, The Poetry Trail is a great option for continued learning. This trail in the Humana Grand Allee area of Beckley Creek Park combines the beauty of nature with the art of poetry. Along the way, you’ll find poems strategically placed to complement the surroundings, providing moments of reflection and inspiration. It’s a wonderful opportunity for older children to explore their imagination, appreciate the natural world through a different lens, and perhaps even try their hand at writing their own poems inspired by the sights and sounds of the trail.

Get Outdoors with Your Kids Today!

Before heading out, visit theparklands.org for more information and the most current alerts or guidelines. Remember to pack plenty of water and sunscreen, and don’t forget your camera to capture those special moments in nature!

Plan your next family outing at The Parklands of Floyds Fork and create lasting memories exploring the beauty of Kentucky’s natural landscapes. From easy trails to more challenging hikes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So grab your hiking shoes and embark on an adventure filled with fun, discovery, and the great outdoors!

A special thank you to Petra Palmer (HikeLouisville) and Maria Koerner (maria.made.moments) for sharing their photos and providing valuable input about family-friendly hiking in The Parklands. We appreciate your support and your dedication to sharing the joys of nature with other families! 

Want to join in the fun? Be sure to tag us on social media when you share photos from your next adventure in The Parklands!