Jefferson Memorial Forest

Jefferson Memorial Forest is the headquarters of Louisville Parks and Recreation’s Natural Areas Division, which is responsible for managing more than 7,500 acres and nearly 60 miles of hiking and equestrian trails spread over multiple properties. This urban forest—located just 15 miles from downtown Louisville—offers city dwellers a wilderness immersion experience. The Forest is Louisville’s largest nature preserve. It protects 275 species of trees, shrubs, and ferns, and preserves critical habitat for many migratory bird species. It also provides significant environmental benefits, including air and water quality and carbon storage. Dozens of hiking and equestrian trails ranging from easy to strenuous meander through the Forest, and all can be enjoyed year-round with preparation and appropriate gear. Created by the city of Louisville in 1945 to honor military veterans, Jefferson County Memorial Forest—as it was then called—began as a 1,500-acre park. It has grown into the largest municipally-owned urban forest in the United States. We are lucky to have this wilderness right in our own backyard.

Trail work (trimming, rock armoring, etc.), invasive plant removal, environmental education programs, recreation programs (archery, canoeing, orienteering), gardening