While it’s still difficult to tell what season it is from day to day, or even from morning to afternoon in some cases, warmer weather is certainly on the horizon. With that comes a variety of ways to enjoy the great outdoors right here in Clark County.

One way to do so is by attending one of the guided hikes at Lower Howard’s Creek Nature and Heritage Preserve.

LHC will offer some special programming this spring with hikes for children, ‘oldsters,’ flower-lovers and Earth Day celebrators.

All hikes are approximately three hours long and moderately strenuous.  Participants should bring snacks and water. Dogs are not allowed because it’s a state nature preserve, and children should be accompanied by adults. Wear sturdy shoes as the trails are not paved.

Call to reserve a spot on these hikes at 744-4888, since hikes are limited to 20 people only.  Hikes are free, but donations to the preserve are appreciated.

There are only a few chances each year to explore the preserve. 

In order to protect fragile plants and cultural resources, the main part of the preserve is off limits to visitors unless on a guided hike. The John Holder Trail is the only public trail, with access year-round, from sunrise to sunset.

Lower Howard’s Creek Nature and Heritage Preserve was created on Nov. 27, 2000, when Clark County Fiscal Court purchased 240 acres of land located on both sides of Lower Howard’s Creek immediately upstream from the confluence of the Creek and the Kentucky River, according to the Preserve website.

The Preserve is a window into an important part of Clark County’s history, and many people have worked hard to care for the natural and historical aspects of the Preserve.

The purpose of the Preserve is to provide nature education, to preserve endangered and threatened species, and to preserve and interpret an important chapter in the history of Clark County and the Bluegrass Region of Kentucky.

With a guided hike, Clark Countians have the opportunity to explore some of Kentucky’s beautiful landscape, right in our backyard, and learn more about the history of the community.

Greet spring with a hike at Lower Howard’s Creek.