One of the best adventures to take when visiting The Parklands of Floyds Fork is a hike down to the park’s namesake itself. Floyds Fork creek is a classic Kentucky stream and several trails throughout the park system provide access for families to explore its aquatic habitat. A few trails even feature gravel bars filled with fossils and freshwater mussels, which are sure to fascinate and delight the entire family. Please remember to practice “Leave No Trace” and return what you find so that other visitors can enjoy the experience.
NOTE: While the water in Floyds Fork is safe for wading, splashing, and fishing, swimming in the creek is not advised!
Beckley Creek Park
Sycamore Trail: This easy-level, half-mile (one-way), dirt path gets you away from the road and out along Floyds Fork. Pass by an impressive, shaded gravel bar along the way. The Sycamore Trail stems off of the Louisville Loop near the Egg Lawn and Creekside Center.*
Black Willow Trail: This easy-level, 1.69-mile (one-way) hiking trail is made mostly of crushed stone. It begins at the southern end of the Thornton Bridge and widely circles the Humana Grand Allee, passing by wooded areas, through meadows, and along Floyds Fork before meeting up with the Louisville Loop and circling back to the bridge. The southern end of this trail leads to Floyds Flats, a unique area of the Fork characterized by smooth, limestone bedrock.
Flats Trail: This short trail through the riparian forest also leads to Floyds Flats on the opposite side of the creek. Park at the Flats Picnic Grove to access this short path.
Turkey Run Park
Boone Bottoms Trail: This easy, dirt trail is 1.2 miles through the Boone bottomlands. Make a stop at “Mussel Shoals” an amazing gravel bar along Floyds Fork. There is great access for fishing along Floyds Fork. Just make sure you have your fishing license handy if you are 16 or older! Unlike the other trails in this list, Boone Bottoms loops back to the start, so park at the Ben Stout House and head out in either direction.*
Broad Run Park
Riparian Ramble Trail: This 1.2-mile easy level, soft-surface hike and bike trail winds along Floyds Fork, Cliffside Center, and The Lowland Plain. With direct access to the stream, this trail offers a great spot to drop a fishing line.
*Gravel Bar along the way!
Many plants are blooming throughout the parks and along the creek. Make sure to watch for and avoid these not-so-friendly plants.
As a donor-supported public park, The Parklands of Floyds Fork depends on membership and additional contributions to maintain a clean, safe, fun, and beautiful place for the entire community to enjoy. These parks are NOT metro parks. Please consider becoming a member or making a donation. Your donation is 100% tax-deductible and directly impacts The Parklands you love.
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