The 6 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Kentucky

Near Clermont, 100mi (161km) north of Kentucky, Bernheim Forest is a unique place to hike past the many maples, dogwoods, magnolias and beeches as they erupt into fiery reds and oranges. The canopy tree walk offers a fantastic view and, more importantly, a study of the incredible trees as they transform at this time of year. So much love and care is poured into this park that has become a key aspect of Kentucky’s nature. Now 95 years old, the park is thriving better than ever and is a truly beautiful place to witness the colours of fall. Be sure to check out their website in advance of your visit to see if any exhibitions or workshops they host are of interest to you. They offer diverse sessions all year round and there’s something for everyone.

Old Louisville is situated about 100mi (161km) west of Kentucky, with visitors flocking here for its fascinating history and fantastic fall foliage. As you wander the historic neighborhood – including the largest collection of Victorian mansions in the United States – you’ll be treated to a backdrop of golden leaves, with Belgravia Courts in particular feeling like a movie set, tucked away from the noise of the city. Come nightfall, the gas lights truly take you to another time. Be sure to check out all of the wonderful festivals and shows that are hosted here. Old Louisville hosts The St. James Court Art Show, which is the top outdoor art show in America. They also host The Kentucky Shakespeare Festival in Central Park, which is the longest-running outdoor Shakespeare festival in the country. Additionally, you can enjoy their LIVE series of free concerts in Central Park and around Old Louisville.

Red River Gorge is around 52mi (84km) east of Kentucky and arguably offers the best fall colors in the whole state, especially after wet weather. A range of hikes take you past natural sandstone arches and dense forests are crawling with wildlife. Make the ranger station your first stop (don’t forget to pick up maps and information for budding botanists or geologists), and rest your head at Birch Hollow Cabins in Stanton. Hundreds of people flock to Red River Gorge to enjoy the range of activities it has to offer for the whole family. You can enjoy activities such as rock climbing, hiking, underground gorge exploring and more. In fall, these activities have the added beauty of the seasonal colours and foliage. Red River Gorge is the perfect place for families and travellers who love to adventure and keep active amongst beautiful nature.

At this time of year, a winding drive through the amazing colors of the fall is as romantic as it is rewarding. The drive around Lexington, known for its well-bred livestock, takes you into Kentucky Horse Country. As you head down the Versailles Road, you’ll pass old-timey farms and, once you hit Midway Road, you feel the intimacy of nature and the changing leaves really begin to stir. Old Frankfort Pike is the fiery highlight, before you finally make your way to Georgetown.

To the southwest of Kentucky, Lake Cumberland State Resort Park makes for a powerful reminder of nature’s wonders. It offers cabin and cottage rentals, or hotel rooms with incredible views of the season’s colors if you prefer a little luxury. If you fancy something a bit different, why not rent a houseboat and sleep on one of the largest lakes in the United States? Fishing is also encouraged, so prepare to see some incredible sights while you’re out on the glittering waters. The perfect place to take some time away from the bustle as you slow down into the season of fall. You’ll leave feeling revived and reconnected to nature.

The Big South Fork Scenic Railway is located in Southern Kentucky, only one-and-a-half hours’ drive from Knoxville and an ideal day out for the whole family. Ride the old steam trains, dating back to an era when logging and mining thrived, learn about the region’s fascinating history, and take in the stunning fall colors as you descend deep into the gorge, passing mountain streams and dense forest.