While there are reasons to hike in Kentucky any time of year, there are ample reasons to hike in the fall. The cool, crisp weather and reduced number of insects buzzing around make fall hiking more enjoyable. However, the most convincing reason to hike in the fall, in my opinion, is the stunning fall foliage. Kentuckians can enjoy the constellation of fall leaf colors—the bright reds, pinks, oranges, and yellows—for only a few weeks each year. The Harrods Creek Trail near Prospect, Kentucky, is great for viewing fall foliage.

The Harrods Creek Trail is 2.2 miles and rated moderately difficult. Visitors note rocks, tree roots, and uneven terrain along the trail. The path follows Harrods Creek, and hikers can enjoy beautiful forest and water views. In the fall, the trees along the trail turn stunning shades. There are swings where visitors can stop to enjoy the views before continuing along the path. The swings look like the perfect place to take a break during a hike and provide a fantastic photo opportunity!

The trail is located inside Harrods Creek Park, a 109-acre park with four miles of trails that is open from dawn to dusk. Parking for Harrods Creek Park and the Harrods Creek Trail is located near the intersection of Montero Drive and Deep Creek Drive. The park is surrounded by private property, making it feel like a hidden natural oasis.

The Harrods Creek Park trails are great places to view wildlife, especially wild turkeys, blue herons, white-tailed deer, and numerous species of birds. The park also has a place to fish and launch canoes and kayaks into Harrods Creek.

There are several trails to enjoy at Harrods Creek Park. The Blue Trail takes hikers to a beach area on the creek's banks, while the Red and Green Trails take hikers to more remote and secluded park areas.

For more information, view the Harrods Creek Park website and the Harrods Creek Trail's listing on AllTrails.

Before you set out on your next hike, take a look at our list of must-have hiking accessories.

Prospect is a charming little town just outside of Louisville. It's near enough to the city to access all its amenities but far enough away to escape the hustle and bustle and find wide-open spaces. The area is full of great places to enjoy nature, including Creasey Mahan Nature Preserve, Sinking Fork Falls, and Hays Kennedy Park. There are also fantastic restaurants, including Captain's Quarters Riverside Grille, which has panoramic views of the Ohio River.