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McConnell Springs is an AOK venue that's situlated in the middle of an industrial park. The trails here are suitable for everyone as the terrain in easy, with very little elevation change. Tip: There are no dogs allowed here While it's certainly not nice enough to be a cross-country destination, if you happen to be in the area then a visit here would probably be worth the time it takes.
You'll wonder if you've taken a wrong turn when you hit the warehouse district, but behind it lies a quite magnificent set of scenery. There were some hangups; notably the parking lot and visitor center closing early and forcing one to park on the street nearby. A couple of trails were closed for me. Nonetheless, the open trails and boardwalk lead to lush and peaceful scenery that seems distinct from the surrounding city. The clear water and ample plant life make for great views, and there's plenty of space to get your workout in. The word "oasis" is probably overused to describe urban parks, but in this case it applies.
Just a great and easy hike in Lexington. Definitely kid and stroller friendly as a lot of the trail is paved or hardpack. Best part is this nature preserve is about a mile from downtown and you don't need to drive the 30+ minutes to get to some other trails around Lexington. For days I don't have a lot of time but feel the need to be outside this place is wonderful. The trails are well marked and easy to follow. There are some very unique spots to check out while on the trail from spring and boils and a stream to some very pretty wild flowers to a small lake. Every time I come here there are a bunch of turtles just swimming around. I find it very relaxing to just watch them. If you are looking for a free and easy way to get outside with the family or you just want to be with nature, this is a great place.
Wow! I've lived in Lexington practically all of my life, and had never been to McConnell Springs. Finally, I decided to get out of my rut of visiting the same parks over and over and explore. I was a bit surprised at the location. It's literally a mile or so from downtown Lexington, tucked away in an area that seems like an industrial park. The visitors center or whatever they call it, closes at 5pm. The gate will also be closed, the park doesn't actually "close" until dusk. You can park curbside in front of the gate, then walk through the visitors center and picnic table area and into 26 acres of hidden beauty. Most of the path is paved and level, so the walk is very easy. You will see signs pointing right for the springs, or you can turn left and explore the pond and wooded landscape. I chose going past the springs first, and circling around into the wooded area. The wooded area is very close to houses, which reminds you that you are in the city. First you pass the Blue Hole. It's 15 feet deep and has a slight tint of blue to it. The water from the Blue Hole area runs underground, through the limestone and bubbles into the second spring area, which is called the Boil. The Boil is not warm as you might think by the name. The third spring area the called The Final Sink. I won't ruin the experience and go into great detail, but each spring is amazing and has it's own story posted along the way. There are benches along the path too, so plan to stop and rest and enjoy the scenery.
As I drove toward downtown Lexington, I was surprised by the location of McConnell Springs but pleased that it was so easy to find. I went on a Friday afternoon and had the place mostly to myself. The walking trails wind back into the woods. They are mostly paved and go over several cute bridges. Benches line the trail. It seems very well maintained. The springs are interesting to look at and sitting on a bench looking at them became meditative. A great place for somewhere to clear your head or take a romantic walk with a significant other. It also looked like a nice spot for a picnic. The trails were not strenuous and could be easily managed by anyone. I was happy to notice while I was leaving that it's very close to the Distillery District on Manchester Street so lunch and a drink at Ethereal combined with a walk at McConnell Springs may be in my future.
I was eager to stop by this little park to check out the trails! Unfortunately it is only open from 1-5pm on Sundays, but there is plenty of free parking available. The main loop is under a mile long and great for a quick afternoon walk. Parts of the trail are paved, while other sections are just leaves and dirt. The location is convenient, but I probably wouldn't bother going here if you have a long commute. Peaceful and scenic though!
So you have to get in your car to drive here but it's worth the trip. They have a great education center and covered picnic tables. There are paved & dirt walking paths that are easy for everyone, including those with disabilities. They host special events and upon request will host an educational event for you. I have attended Halloween events, Founder's Day and Cub Scout programs here several times. We always enjoyed our visits and will definitely be back!
The park is cool that it is right in town and have paved walking trail. Gave it only 4 stars because you cannot have dogs and the parking lot is gated. Park opened at 1 pm on Sunday which thought was pretty late opening time. It's a little hard to fully enjoy nature always hearing road traffic and sirens the entire time. Do love the green space area in city. Very short more geared a leisurely stroll not for serious hiking.
McConnell Springs hosted the community in the Education Center for a very interesting and informative talk by a Jessica Whitehead, former Curator of collections at the Kentucky Derby Museum. She spoke about the ladies of the 1800's who were an integral partof thoroughbred breeding and racing. 87 read more
11 months ago
Nice natural area to walk around it! It is larger and more secluded than the average local option. Unfortunately dogs aren't allowed. read more
Neat little stop. The walk is mostly paved and flat which I think is a plus for some. The blue hole is neat and the spring boils up which a neat little phenomenon. There is a pond with fish, turtles and frogs. Informative signs along the path tell the history of the park as well. read more
5 years ago
McConnell Springs is an AOK venue that's situlated in the middle of an industrial park. The trails here are suitable for everyone as the terrain in easy, with very little elevation change. Tip: There are no dogs allowed here While it's certainly not nice enough to be a cross-country destination, if you happen to be in the area then a visit here would probably be worth the time it takes. read more
3 years ago
You'll wonder if you've taken a wrong turn when you hit the warehouse district, but behind it lies a quite magnificent set of scenery. There were some hangups; notably the parking lot and visitor center closing early and forcing one to park on the street nearby. A couple of trails were closed for me. Nonetheless, the open trails and boardwalk lead to lush and peaceful scenery that seems distinct from the surrounding city. The clear water and ample plant life make for great views, and there's plenty of space to get your workout in. The word "oasis" is probably overused to describe urban parks, but in this case it applies. read more
Just a great and easy hike in Lexington. Definitely kid and stroller friendly as a lot of the trail is paved or hardpack. Best part is this nature preserve is about a mile from downtown and you don't need to drive the 30+ minutes to get to some other trails around Lexington. For days I don't have a lot of time but feel the need to be outside this place is wonderful. The trails are well marked and easy to follow. There are some very unique spots to check out while on the trail from spring and boils and a stream to some very pretty wild flowers to a small lake. Every time I come here there are a bunch of turtles just swimming around. I find it very relaxing to just watch them. If you are looking for a free and easy way to get outside with the family or you just want to be with nature, this is a great place. read more
8 years ago
2 years ago
12 years ago
Wow! I've lived in Lexington practically all of my life, and had never been to McConnell Springs. Finally, I decided to get out of my rut of visiting the same parks over and over and explore. I was a bit surprised at the location. It's literally a mile or so from downtown Lexington, tucked away in an area that seems like an industrial park. The visitors center or whatever they call it, closes at 5pm. The gate will also be closed, the park doesn't actually "close" until dusk. You can park curbside in front of the gate, then walk through the visitors center and picnic table area and into 26 acres of hidden beauty. Most of the path is paved and level, so the walk is very easy. You will see signs pointing right for the springs, or you can turn left and explore the pond and wooded landscape. I chose going past the springs first, and circling around into the wooded area. The wooded area is very close to houses, which reminds you that you are in the city. First you pass the Blue Hole. It's 15 feet deep and has a slight tint of blue to it. The water from the Blue Hole area runs underground, through the limestone and bubbles into the second spring area, which is called the Boil. The Boil is not warm as you might think by the name. The third spring area the called The Final Sink. I won't ruin the experience and go into great detail, but each spring is amazing and has it's own story posted along the way. There are benches along the path too, so plan to stop and rest and enjoy the scenery. read more
12 years ago
As I drove toward downtown Lexington, I was surprised by the location of McConnell Springs but pleased that it was so easy to find. I went on a Friday afternoon and had the place mostly to myself. The walking trails wind back into the woods. They are mostly paved and go over several cute bridges. Benches line the trail. It seems very well maintained. The springs are interesting to look at and sitting on a bench looking at them became meditative. A great place for somewhere to clear your head or take a romantic walk with a significant other. It also looked like a nice spot for a picnic. The trails were not strenuous and could be easily managed by anyone. I was happy to notice while I was leaving that it's very close to the Distillery District on Manchester Street so lunch and a drink at Ethereal combined with a walk at McConnell Springs may be in my future. read more
7 years ago
I was eager to stop by this little park to check out the trails! Unfortunately it is only open from 1-5pm on Sundays, but there is plenty of free parking available. The main loop is under a mile long and great for a quick afternoon walk. Parts of the trail are paved, while other sections are just leaves and dirt. The location is convenient, but I probably wouldn't bother going here if you have a long commute. Peaceful and scenic though! read more
6 years ago
So you have to get in your car to drive here but it's worth the trip. They have a great education center and covered picnic tables. There are paved & dirt walking paths that are easy for everyone, including those with disabilities. They host special events and upon request will host an educational event for you. I have attended Halloween events, Founder's Day and Cub Scout programs here several times. We always enjoyed our visits and will definitely be back! read more
4 years ago
6 years ago
Absolutely stunning! Such an incredible experience for any age! Not only was it breathtakingly beautiful, there were also signs explaining the history as well as the science behind the sights. Definitely worth your time! read more
9 years ago
The park is cool that it is right in town and have paved walking trail. Gave it only 4 stars because you cannot have dogs and the parking lot is gated. Park opened at 1 pm on Sunday which thought was pretty late opening time. It's a little hard to fully enjoy nature always hearing road traffic and sirens the entire time. Do love the green space area in city. Very short more geared a leisurely stroll not for serious hiking. read more
9 years ago
A true diamond in the rough. This hidden forest in the middle of an urban city is magical. Easy walking trails, good picnic spots, animal sightings, and historic facts along the way. Really loved this place, so tranquil in the middle of all the hustle and bustle of the city near by. read more
11 years ago
9 years ago
