Adventures
Trail Rules
- Please avoid hiking or riding when trail surfaces are apt to be wet and muddy. Avoid trails following substantial periods of rain or snow, especially during winter freeze/thaw cycles (e.g., when temperatures start out below freezing and rise to above freezing by mid-day).
- Off-road vehicles/ATV’s are strictly prohibited.
- Horses and bikes are permitted on designated trails only. They are prohibited elsewhere. Bikes are currently only permitted on designated Waverly Park trails. Horses are currently only permitted on designated trails in the Paul Yost Recreation Area and the Purple Heart Trail of Tom Wallace Recreation Area.
- Hiking at Fairmount Falls requires a free permit available from the Forest’s Welcome Center.
- Stay on trails walking single file and do not shortcut corners.
- Dispose of waste properly by carrying out litter. Practicing “negative trace” by picking up trash left by others is greatly appreciated too.
- Respect wildlife. Do not try to attract or approach wildlife and never feed human food to animals as this disrupts their natural food cycle.
- Pets are welcome to join you on your hike but must be kept on a leash at all times.
- Leave nature in nature: Avoid moving rocks, picking plants, and disturbing cultural/historical artifacts. Take pictures instead; it allows others to enjoy the same experience you did.
- Back country camping is prohibited. Jefferson Memorial Forest does have a nice primitive campground and you may wish to reserve a spot and hike in. Learn more about camping, here.
Tips
- Know the type of terrain and possible weather conditions you might encounter. Current weather conditions are available here.
- Carry a trail map with you on your hike. Maps of the trails are available at the Welcome Center and can be downloaded from this web site.
- Carry water, snacks, and a small first aid kit. You may want to have a day pack with extra clothes, hat, rain poncho, insect repellent, flashlight, whistle, etc. Drink water and eat small snacks frequently to keep energy and hydration at optimal levels.
- Let someone know where you are going and when you will return.
- Report trail or structure damage at the Welcome Center. If you are interested in doing trail work or monitoring for the Natural Areas Division, check out our volunteer page. We are always looking for good volunteers.
- Pay attention to trail junctures and know your location on the map.
- Snacks and guidebooks to common animals and plants of the region are available in the Welcome Center.
Etiquette
- If you are planning to form a large group to hike or ride the trails, notify the Jefferson Memorial Forest Welcome Center (502.368.5404) well in advance of your date.
- Keep voices/noises from getting intrusively loud. Being loud negatively affects the enjoyment of the trail experience for other users.
- Greet people you meet traveling in the opposite direction. This makes sure they know you are there and makes the trail a friendlier place.
- When passing a user heading the same direction you are traveling, verbalize that you are passing well before you get close to them so they are not startled. Pass them on the left side after they acknowledge you.
- Hikers should yield to horses. When meeting a horse you should move to the downhill side of the trail and wait for the horse to pass. Speak softly as the horse passes. Being on the uphill side may make a horse think you to be a predator.
- Bikes should yield to all other trail users.
Report an Issue
For a Severe Emergency, Call 911
To report inappropriate/illegal activities:
- Louisville Metro Police – (502) 574-2111
- Metro City Radio Service – (502) 574-3506
For vandalism and repair issues, contact 311 or visit Metro311’s website.
For other concerns:
- Welcome Center (office hours) – (502) 368-5404
- Send us an email
Time Outdoors is Good for You!
Explore your adventurous side at a local natural area. Spending time in the great outdoors – whether it’s hiking or biking a trail, sharing a picnic with family, or relaxing with a fishing pole – can lead to significant health benefits. Studies show time in greenspace improves blood pressure, boosts mental health, and reduces stress. There are hundreds of opportunities for outdoor fun right here in Louisville!