Want To Explore Outdoor Louisville? These Are The Top 5 Things To Try
Louisville and the surrounding area offer some unique options that will get your adrenaline flowing and your heart pumping.
1. Louisville Mega Cavern
1841 Taylor Ave., 502-855-6342 – louisvillemegacavern.com
Take your adventure underground. The Louisville Mega Cavern is home to the world’s largest underground bicycle park, a zip line course (six zip lines and two challenge bridges), an aerial ropes challenge course and an electric bicycle tour. When you need a break from all the activity, the Mega Cavern also offers a seated Tram Tour.
2. Go Ape Treetop Adventure
Jefferson Memorial Forest, 11311 Mitchell Hill Road, Fairdale, goape.com
Zip, swing, and climb through the trees — this highly interactive two-three hour outdoor experience takes place at heights of 40-50 feet in the trees. Located in Jefferson Memorial Forest, the course is made up of rope ladders, 39 heart-stopping crossings like the Log Swing, Wobbly Ladder and Japanese Bridge, plus two Tarzan Swings and five zip lines.
You must be 10 years old and at least 4-feet, 7 inches tall to take part. Maximum weight is 285 pounds.
3. Bicycle & Segway Tours at Waterfront Park
1001 E. River Road, 502-589-2453, https://wheelfunrentals.com/louisville
Wheel Fun Rentals located at the base of the Big Four Bridge rents cruiser bicycles, and Surreys. Ride through Waterfront Park, along the banks of the Ohio River, across The Big Four Bridge and more.
Guided tours are offered or pedal around on your own.
4. Jefferson Memorial Forest
11311 Mitchell Hill Road, Fairdale, 502-368-5404, louisvilleky.gov
The forest offers over 35 miles of scenic woodland trail for hiking, trail running and 11 miles available for equestrian use. Additionally, the Tulip Tree and Memorial Trails are handicapped accessible. Camping is also available. If it’s your first visit to Jefferson Memorial Forest you’ll find maps and information at the Welcome Center.
5. The Parklands of Floyds Fork
15712 Shelbyville Road, 502-584-0350, theparklands.org
The five sections of The Parklands offer miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, canoeing, kayaking and stand up paddleboarding on the waterway known as Floyd Fork. Bring your fishing pole and your road bike, there are plenty of areas to enjoy both. Seasonal bicycle rentals are available.
