National Trails Day at Kentucky State Parks is Just Around the Corner

Trail at Pennyrile Forest State Resort ParkKentucky State Parks will participate in National Trails Day on June 4 and free fishing weekend June 4-5, with events across the state to recognize the excellent hiking and fishing opportunities at state parks.

The American Hiking Society launched National Trails Day in 1993 to help promote exercise, trail development and the outdoors. It has grown to more than 2,300 events around the country.

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife will offer free fishing weekend June 4-5, when no license is required to fish Kentucky waters. Kentucky State Parks have outstanding fishing opportunities and some parks will loan out fishing poles and tackle. Anyone 16 years old and older is required to have a fishing license the remainder of the year.

The following state parks have events planned for National Trails Day and free fishing weekend:

Buckhorn Lake State Resort Park, Buckhorn

Hook and Hike Day, June 4

Buckhorn Lake State Park will offer several activities in honor of National Trails Day and free fishing weekend. Planned activities include a Kids Fishing Derby for kids ages 15 and under, a session on orienteering and a hike of the 1 1/2 mile gradually sloping Moonshine Holler Trail. Call 606-398-7510 for details.

 

Columbus-Belmont State Park, Columbus

History Hike on June 4

Columbus-Belmont State Park will offer a History Hike around the grounds, nature trail and historic Civil War earthworks.  Maps and a bottle of water will be provided at the snack bar.  A scavenger hunt list will be issued with museum admission and a prize given upon completion. Call 270-677-2327.

Trail at John James Audubon State ParkJohn James Audubon State Park, Henderson

Volunteer Work Day, June 4

Volunteers are needed to work on the trails at John James Audubon State Park as part of National Trails Day. Work starts at 8:30 a.m. to noon. Lunch will be provided. The event is co-sponsored by the Audubon Outdoor Club. This is a great opportunity for church groups, scouts and others to help get the trails in tip-top condition. Volunteers should wear appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes for the weather.  Groups and individuals interested in volunteering should contact Mark Kellen at 270-826-2247 or mark.kellen@ky.gov

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park, Dawson Springs

Guided Hike, June 4

Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park will offer a guided hike along Lake Trail beginning at 9 a.m. Participants will meet the park naturalist in the Lodge Lobby to hike for approximately 2 hours.  Guests should bring insect repellent, hiking stick (optional), water and snacks. The hike is not recommended for children under the age of five. Call 800-325-1711.

Pine Mountain State Resort ParkPine Mountain State Resort Park, Pineville

Guided Hike, June 4

Pine Mountain State Resort Park will offer a guided hike along the Hemlock Garden Trail at 4 p.m. on June 4. The hike is through a cool, hemlock cove forest along Bear Wallow Stream. For ages 5 and older. Meet at the Hemlock Garden Trailhead. Call 606-337-3066.

Wickliffe Mounds State Historic Site, Wickliffe

Hike Historic Grounds, June 4

Wickliffe Mounds State Historic Site will offer a nature trail hike.  A trail map and bird checklist will be available at the front desk. Trail access is included in museum admission of $5 adults, $4 kids and seniors and military/veterans.  Trail use only is free during hours of operation.  For more information, call the park at 270-335-3681 or email carla.hildebrand@ky.gov

For more information about Kentucky State Parks, visit www.parks.ky.gov  For more information about National Trails Day, including special events at other Kentucky locations, visit www.americanhiking.org. For more information on free fishing weekend in Kentucky visit http://fw.ky.gov/.