Most People Don't Know These Natural Springs Are Hiding In A Kentucky City
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Rachel Shulhafer
Author
Tucked in an industrial neighborhood in Lexington, McConnell Springs Park is a hidden gem of major historical significance to Kentucky’s second-largest city. This 26-acre park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and contains two natural springs.
In 1775, explorer William McConnell and his men found the springs located in the area and set up camp there. Having heard that the first battle of the American Revolution had just taken place in Lexington, Massachusetts, McConnell decided to call his new settlement Lexington.
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Both springs flow through the limestone bedrock common in Kentucky. The first of the natural springs is the Blue Hole, named for the striking blue color of its water.
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The other spring is named The Boils, even though the water is not hot. The name comes from the fact that after a heavy rain, the water rushes up from underground at such a force that the water can look like it’s boiling.
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The water eventually reaches a cave-like formation called the final sink, where it flows underwater again. Eventually it resurfaces at Preston’s Cave and empties into Elkhorn Creek.
There’s a paved loop that is a little over a half mile long, making it accessible for most people. There are a total of two miles worth of hiking trails. It is a very kid-friendly place, but dogs are not allowed. They also have an educational center where they host special events and programs for schools and other youth groups.
McConnell Springs Park is one of the best kept secrets in Lexington. It’s like a natural little oasis in the middle of the city. The educational center and parking lot for McConnell Springs Park is located 416 Rebmann Lane, Lexington, KY 40504.
Did you know McConnell Springs Park existed?
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