Bernheim Forest and Arboretum

Aiming to connect Kentuckians to the outdoors, bourbon-maker Isaac Wolf Bernheim purchased 12,000 acres in 1929. Today known as Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, it spans a total of 16,000 acres and has more than 40 miles of hiking trails. 

Options range from the challenging 15-mile Millenium Trail that weaves through oak-hickory and beech-maple forest to the Lake Nevin Loop, which offers a flat 1.3 miles. 

Keep an eye out for the trio of Forest Giants, renowned Danish artist Thomas Dambo’s large troll sculptures created from all-natural and recycled materials. 

Kids will love the Playcosystem, a 17-acre area that encourages unstructured play. Children can compete in an obstacle course, dig into sand pits and enjoy an accessible treehouse and pathways.

For those who want to take things to new heights, Bernheim Forest and Arboretum offers a canopy tree walk 75 feet above the forest floor, as well as its fire tower. End the day at Isaac’s Cafe, where the seasonal menu pulls from the arboretum’s edible garden of its lineup of soups, salads and sandwiches. 2075 Clermont Rd., Clermont, Kentucky 40110, 502/955-8512, bernheim.org