Spring is always a beautiful time in Kentucky, but this year has been especially vibrant. Perhaps it’s because we had a cold, grey, and wet winter, but the trees seem greener and the flowers more colorful than in year’s past. All of the parks and natural areas in the Bluegrass State are ideal to visit this time of year, but one hidden gem that’s particularly lovely is Raven Run Nature Sanctuary in Lexington. You may be surprised to find this natural wonder and historic destination so close to the city, and this time of year it is filled with wildflowers that make it too beautiful for words.

Raven Run Nature Sanctuary is made up of 734 acres of natural beauty and history in the heart of Kentucky. It's operated by the City Parks of Lexington, and it's nearly impossible to believe that a place like this exists so close to a busy city.
Photo Courtesy of Ruth Palmer
The Sanctuary was created to preserve the Kentucky River Palisades, as well as the incredible history of the earliest days of our state. The acreage is full of remnants from the past, as well as a wide variety of landscapes to explore.
Google/Brent Meyer
Beginning in April and continuing into May, Raven Run becomes a wildflower sanctuary that is filled with color everywhere you look. Many of the trails are lined with colorful blossoms, and it's truly a remarkable sight.
Photo Courtesy of Pat Whitaker Goodwin Watts
As a nature sanctuary, keep in mind that you absolutely must keep to the trails when exploring the property. There are more than 10 miles of paths, so you'll have plenty of scenery to keep you interested.
Photo Courtesy of Hilary Walker Miller

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And don’t forget to literally take the time and smell the flowers. Smell them, gaze at them, and appreciate the natural beauty of Kentucky.
Photo Courtesy of Ruth Palmer
Raven Run is a popular destination for photographers and hikers, but anyone is welcome to walk amongst the blooms. Visitors are required to check in at the nature center, where you can pick up a map to plan your route.
Photo Courtesy of Jeff Palmer
The waterways throughout the sanctuary are another favorite feature, and you’ll spot creeks and rocky waterfalls along many of the trails. You can also expect clifftop views and hikes that range from easy to challenging.
Photo Courtesy of Hilary Walker Miller
Raven Run Nature Sanctuary is a delightful hidden gem in Kentucky that's bursting with natural beauty and history. You can experience it all firsthand, and be sure to bring your camera along to capture the vast wildflowers that will greet you with a colorful welcome.
Photo Courtesy of Hilary Walker Miller

Raven Run Nature Sanctuary is a natural hidden gem in our state and one of the best hiking destinations you’ll find anywhere. In spring, this vibrant place that is filled with wildflowers is almost too beautiful for words. Have you hiked the trails of this nature sanctuary in Kentucky? Where else do you love to hike in the spring? Let us know in the comments!

Raven Run Nature Sanctuary is located at 3885 Raven Run Way, Lexington, KY 40515. For more information, visit its website here.

And for more of the greatest hiking trails in Kentucky, and really the world, check out our previous article here.

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