• Biking
  • Paddling
  • Playing
  • Sightseeing
  • Walking
Creek, Floyds Fork, Paddling Access, Playground, Trail, Woods
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Anna Rosales-Crone

Spring to-do List

Beckley Creek Park, Broad Run Park, Pope Lick Park, The Strand, Turkey Run Park

As spring arrives in the bluegrass, it brings with it warmer, sunnier weather—at least for a bit! While spring cleaning and other tasks may be calling, we hope you’re able to get out and enjoy the spring season in The Parklands. Here are a few items to add to your spring to-do list.

  1. Spring ephemerals – These small, beautiful flowers are the first to arrive, but they don’t last long. You’ll see their blooms peeking from the forest floor, especially when hiking along any natural-surface trail in The Parklands. Read more about them (and the best places in Louisville to see them) in this Courier-Journal article from Yew Dell’s Executive Director Paul Cappiello. Find your perfect Parklands trail
  2. Playgrounds – ICYMI, the playgrounds are open! We recommend visiting early or during the week to avoid peak visitation time. If at any time you feel the playground you are visiting is too crowded, check out a nearby trail and return at a later time. Many of The Parklands trails are easy and accessible to all, including small children. More on playground guidance
  3. Paddle The Parklands – Spring is a great time to explore The Parklands by canoe or kayak. All paddling accesses are now open and Floyds Fork recently stocked with rainbow trout. Learn more about fishing regulations at www.theparklands.org/fishing and plan your paddling adventure at www.theparklands.org/paddling.
  4. Bike The Parklands – Just how long is the perfect bike ride? This guy thinks 20 miles is the ideal length. Whether you agree or disagree, The Parklands offers more than 40 miles of biking options, 20 of which are paved and fully connected. Whether you’re out for a leisurely ride or in it for the long haul, please remember to share the trails. Biking at The Parklands
  5. For Your Enjoyment and Safety – I know I said a few, but following these quick tips will help make sure you have a fun and safe visit:
  • Do not take unnecessary valuables with you on your outing, and never leave any valuables unattended in the park or in your car.
  • Watch the weather.
  • Stay on marked trails.
  • Carry a mobile phone.
  • Supervise children at all times.
  • Do not use soft-surface trails when they are muddy.
  • Use only park equipment or facilities for their intended purposes.
  • When you’re paddling on Floyds Fork, always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket, and follow posted safety guidelines.
  • If you’re out on a trail or on Floyds Fork, let a friend or family member know where you’re going and when you’ll return. Be aware that the water levels rise quickly on Floyds Fork and smaller creeks, and note the name of the park or the trail that you’re on, including the mile distances on the Loop or Floyds Fork.

Get more tips and updates on The Parklands by following us on Facebook and Instagram @theparklandsoffloydsfork or Twitter @TheParklands. Click here to sign up for our e-newsletter.