Lexington Outdoor Fun: Top 5 Activities & Adventures

Lexington, Kentucky, also known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” might be more known for its equestrian heritage, yet it too boasts a variety of outdoor activities that are worth checking out. So, whether you’re wanting to connect with nature, experience something a bit adventurous, or soak up some scenic beauty, Lexington’s outdoor scene definitely offers something for just about everyone. You know, from trails and parks to waterways and horse farms, get set to uncover five of the great things to do when you feel like being outdoors in Lexington.

1. Hiking Trails at Raven Run Nature Sanctuary

If you like trails and the calmness of nature, the Raven Run Nature Sanctuary could be just what you’re searching for. This really is almost a 734-acre space with a little over ten miles of walking trails. These wind through woods, meadows, and past streams. Anyway, there’s the added bonus that these paths lead to historic spots, which includes a really old grist mill and the Kentucky River. What is great, is that it fits both relaxed walkers as well as avid hikers. It’s pretty cool for taking pictures, getting exercise, and being out in nature.

So, when people go to Raven Run, they often visit the Evans Mill ruins. Basically, what had been a water-powered grist mill gives a window into the local history and even how the first people lived. Anyway, as you go, see if you can find all the wildlife, like birds and deer, and maybe turtles around the streams. In some respects, Raven Run offers a relaxing outdoor activity coupled with chances to see animals and connect to the stories of the spot.

Read our full review: Raven Run Nature Sanctuary Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Book Now)

2. Kayaking or Canoeing on the Elkhorn Creek

Are you wanting to paddle down a winding path through places that you find just beautiful? The Elkhorn Creek delivers a premier destination, often, for kayaking and canoeing around Lexington. What makes it special is not only just a gentle current, so it’s very suitable, even for folks with hardly any paddling skills, but too it has very lush surrounding landscapes, as well. A bit, of a float here can give you sightings of the wildlife, high limestone cliffs, and very tree-lined banks; basically, a moving view as you paddle along.

When going out to Elkhorn Creek, there happen to be a lot of launch spots to look into; Proud Ground or even Fort Spring. Just a little prep and also, a kayak, is what it takes for a relaxing experience along its water trail. Typically, people say the calm of the creek provides just a calming atmosphere to just let things be, regardless if you just want quietness or fish from on top of a kayak. Is that it makes kayaking in Elkhorn Creek perfect whether you are going solo or with a big group, regardless you find this water trail to be something fun.

Read our full review: Elkhorn Creek Kayaking Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Rent a Kayak)

3. Horse Farm Tours

Thinking about horse farms, Lexington serves as the planet’s Horse Capital, as many refer to it, then tours through any of the many horse farms is absolutely crucial. This area’s all rolling green fields and then white-fenced paddocks and everything about the place screams Kentucky horse charm, to say the least. Many of these trips give you behind the scenes stuff where you find out some cool stuff; all on Thoroughbred breeding, horse training, basically what horse care amounts to as well.

Trips that feature iconic farms that include places that were home to some champions which includes the Kentucky Horse Park; these tours differ when you compare it, as a general rule, by cost, timeframe, and type. By the way, this tour has you learn about famous racehorses, and even the chance of meeting some horses up-close too it’s almost. Still, if you are keen on horse culture you are in the right place. Anyway, the tours do really have charm plus provide just a good peek as to why the region’s heritage links inextricably into equine prowess. It is that there are many farms that need setting dates up in advance so planning will be great.

Read our full review: Lexington Horse Farm Tour Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Book a Tour)

4. Exploring the Arboretum, State Botanical Garden of Kentucky

What is quite impressive; Lexington has The Arboretum that is The State Botanical Garden in Kentucky; which then showcases great gardens alongside Kentucky plants. This attraction presents greater chances for individuals searching easygoing strolls in visually appealing environs and a way they can educate one’s self as to plants too it’s almost. Its broad landscapes bring the gardens together while its paths turn into attractive destinations where folks often get lost while at peace among plants.

Amongst well liked exhibits it offers, many find Walk of the Woods and Home Demonstration Garden to be stand outs. Apparently, Kentucky’s indigenous trees are what Walk of the Woods puts forth; so folks get to realize how vital tree diversity is. At this point in time the Demonstration Garden will be presenting approaches to yard care so you and those watching find out practical eco strategies that will look at the grounds around your place. Just a little while is enough here while just wanting a moment as you’re wandering around The Arboretum. Anyway, so or otherwise seeking an education as it will leave you satisfied to learn and maybe give back after viewing it and then connecting along Kentucky at that destination.

Read our full review: Arboretum, State Botanical Garden of Kentucky Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Visit the Garden)

5. Biking at Legacy Trail

If you love bike riding, try the Legacy Trail. Is that Lexington gave bikers, joggers and walkers one level and wide concrete trail and that does join lots parts together coming around 12 long in just that distance. At any rate this place presents ways of finding things just on two wheels plus gives exercise spots coupled alongside sceneries; ideal if someone’s out that wants places both challenging and something easier in terms for an adventure which just unfolds onto nature when coming off any part onto the path itself.

So that trail commences downtown close to the area for the city’s popular YMCA place running further till past places that give views from about town to much beyond here is the problem as there still feels like exploration when around here so in effect going about any level works that well. It feels different for cyclists so much being this just works either that somebody has time going to any length going further because those spaces do come down a variety ways whether through going after places that serve up dining locations. As a matter of fact, even viewing just a landscape plus having something relaxing, then riding by makes this more cool rather what any individual sees since doing stuff around Lexington has it going by very smooth; particularly along legacy.

Read our full review: Legacy Trail Lexington KY Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Rent a Bike)