Natural Arch Scenic Area

The conspicuously named Natural Arch is not the most famous in the state. That distinction would likely go to Natural Bridge (which isn't actually a bridge since it doesn't cross over water). Semantics aside, the impressive sandstone arch is ~100 feet (30.5m) and stands out distinctly from the forest around it. It often reminds me of a great eye of the forest.

The arch is easily reached from a scenic area with ample parking and some limited facilities. Unlike most areas within Daniel Boone National Forest, use of the scenic area requires a $3 fee but offers an easy walk to an overlook of Natural Arch. Another trailhead within the scenic area leads to Buffalo Canyon; a 5 mile loop trail that travels down to the valley along the cliffs and to the base of the arch. A shorter variation is available.

Eastern Red Columbine were blooming along the trail on this late-April visit. Most of the trees had regained their leaves, with only a few flowers left on the red buds and dogwoods.

Information and hiking maps for Natural Arch are available at the Ranger Station in Sterns or from the US Forest Service. Remember to pack water & $3.

You can download a map of the hiking trails from the USDA Forest Service.

April blooms in Frankfort

Spring has finally arrived and the capitol city of Kentucky is blooming. This is the most beautiful time of year to spend an afternoon in Frankfort. I walked around the Old Capitol grounds and enjoyed the flowers and fresh growth on the trees.


Girls play in front of the Old Capitol.


Frankfort is host to numerous flowering trees, including the native red bud and dogwood. A walk around the area promises to reveal magnolia, cherry and crab apple blossoms. While the modern Kentucky State Capitol building always hosts a fine display of tulips this time of year, the Old Capitol was dressed with the showy blooms of a pink dogwood.


Flowering dogwood



The Capitol Annex, home to the Cabinet for Economic Development


I drove around some of the downtown Frankfort streets looking for blooms, circling out to Buffalo Trace Bourbon Distillery. Buffalo Trace is always a solid bet for beautiful seasonal landscaping. Even from the distribution entrance, the flowers didn't disappoint. The tulips caught the light just as the sun began to set.


Spring blooms at Buffalo Trace



Orange tulip



Warehouses filled with bourbon barrels