West Liberty, Kentucky, has some of the most relaxing, scenic parks in the United States. Whether you’re interested in a green space, an area full of geological wonders, or a place that’s mostly underground, the region can suit your interests. Here are some parks near West Liberty that you should explore.
Old Mill Park
This park is filled with ways to relax and enjoy yourself. It’s on the edge of the Licking River, and it includes a natural amphitheater with a covered stage and two covered picnic areas. It also has walking tracks, a playground, swings, outdoor grills, a stationary exercise station, an attractive rock garden, and a fountain.
You can relax on the shores of the river or take your boat down to Sherman Landing, a new and improved riverside launching area. Enjoy the natural world as you paddle down the peaceful river. Old Mill Park is also a popular place for public and private events. You can rent a convenient space for a low price.
The Daniel Boone National Forest
The Daniel Boone National Forest has rugged terrain, steep cliffs and slopes, narrow ravines, and three large lakes. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, hiking, biking, camping, rock climbing, fishing, horseback riding, hunting, swimming, boating, water skiing, and more.
Red River Gorge Geological Area is part of Daniel Boone National Forest. It has a variety of wildlife, sandstone arches, and towering cliffs. The rare white-haired goldenrod doesn’t live in any other place, and it’s the only breeding site for red-breasted nuthatches in Kentucky. It’s a National Natural Landmark and a National Archeological District. It’s also on the National Register of Historic Places.
Carter Caves State Resort Park
This park has a beautiful fieldstone lodge with 28 rooms that have private balconies or patios. Pets are welcome, and high-speed wireless internet access is available. Underneath this beautiful resort, there are over 20 twisting caverns, the highest concentration of caves in the state. There’s a 30-foot underground waterfall as well. You can visit Tierney’s Cavern, Cascade Cave, X-Cave, and more. Bat Cave is the largest, and about 40,000 bats hibernate there in winter. The area has several natural bridges, and Carter Cave Natural Bridge is the only one in the state that has a paved road on top.
Guided tours are available, and the park’s system of hiking trails covers 26 miles. Stop by Tierney’s Cavern Restaurant for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The Carter Caves Gem Mine teaches people how to find obsidian, pyrite, ruby, moonstone, topaz, calcite, sodalite, and other local gems. You can enjoy a miniature golf course and two tennis courts as well.
At these locations, you can experience stunning views, green spaces, fascinating rock formations, and calming vistas. Relax in rock gardens, explore the forests, travel through rocky highlands, or take a look at the subterranean world at one of these parks near West Liberty. It will take you many visits to see all of these expansive places, and they’re ideal for spending time with friends or family members.
Image via Flickr by US Forest Service – Southern Region
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