Kentucky's Unforgettable Fall Foliage

By Ben Mackin

Anyone who loves fall weather should make plans to come to Kentucky. When October and November rolls around in the Bluegrass, Kentuckians and visitors alike have their eyes on the tree line, waiting for the first hints of autumn colors. While the anticipation might seem almost too much to bear, the breathtaking sight of fall foliage in Kentucky is so worth the wait.  

No matter where a traveler happens to be in the Commonwealth, if the leaves are turning, they are in for a veritable fireworks show of vibrant fall colors. There are so many ways to get an amazing view of the foliage.  Nature trails for the outdoorsy type who like hiking for a view and for those who enjoy nature from the inside of the car, there are so many country roads that highlight Kentucky’s fall foliage.  

The Old Frankfort Pike is a Scenic Byway that runs through Woodford County and passes by some of the most charming and beautiful landscapes in the entire country. All told, the pike is 15 miles long, however there is a two-mile stretch of road that features centuries old limestone fences, pastures, barns and a tunnel-like canopy provided by the oak trees on either side of the world. Those lucky enough to drive it during the fall, will feel like the subject of an 19th century impressionist’s oil painting.  

Sixty miles southeast of Lexington, is a nature lover’s paradise, also known as the Daniel Boone National Forest. Frankly, just driving any one of the state routes that passes through the preserve would satisfy most leaf peepers. However, for those who insist on getting out of the car and into the woods, hiking the trails in and around Slade will give folks all the colors they can handle, not to mention jaw-dropping views of picturesque geological phenomena such as Red River Gorge, Natural Bridge and Chimney Top Trail. For those who want to be outside of their car, but might have a difficult time hiking, take advantage of the Natural Bridge Skylift and ride to the view in style.  

To find colors and education head to the Bernheim Forest and Arboretum, located just outside Clermont. There not only does it contain 16,137 acres worth of arboretum, forest, and nature preserve, but it has dozens of folk art installations and playgrounds for children of all ages. 

Pushing to the western part of the state, don’t miss out on the Woodlands Trace Scenic Byway. This road starts at Grand Rivers and takes travelers through the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area and into Tennessee. Along the way sightseers will be surrounded by all the autumnal splendor Kentucky has to offer. 

 The Bluegrass State has amazing things to do and see, regardless of the time of year. With that being said, Kentucky in the fall is hard to beat.