Blue Trail - Jefferson Memorial Forest

Location: Jefferson Memorial Forest - Louisville/Jefferson County
Distance: 2.7 miles (1.5 - 2 hours)
Difficulty: Moderate

For those of you that have never been to Jefferson Memorial, they have over 35 miles of hiking trails, ranging from a rugged 6.2 miler (Siltstone trail) to an easy, paved .2 miler (Tulip Tree Trail). But, it's not your typical park. Instead of one main entrance, it's broken up into different Recreational Areas. If it's your first visit to JM, be sure to hit the Welcome Center before you get started. Or you can download trail maps off their website.
The Blue Trail is located in the Paul Yost Recreational Area. It's a great trail if you're looking to work up a sweat or get your legs in shape for the hiking season. The steep inclines and declines keep this trail interesting. Although there are no grandiose views on this trail, it makes up for it with it's gently rolling creeks and quiet stillness. Many of the trails at JM also include horse trails, and they crisscross over the Blue Trail several times, which can make for some muddy terrain. This is definitely a trail you want to wear your hiking shoes. I would recommend hitting this trail in the early summer months. But if you hike in late summer or early fall, be sure to wear your long pants. The back side of the trail can get pretty overgrown in the later months. 
There are so many great trails at JM, it's hard to pick just one. Of course, there's no reason you can't hike them all!

Red Trail - Raven Run Nature Sanctuary

Location: Raven Run Nature Sanctuary - Lexington
Distance: roughly 4 miles
Difficulty: Easy

Over the weekend I headed to Lexington to another little known Nature Preserve, Raven Run. There are over 10 miles of hiking trails here and I hit one of the most scenic ones, the Red Trail, which includes a fantastic overlook of the Kentucky River. All trails begin at the Nature Center, where maps are provided. Just past the Center, I took a right at the 3-way fork, to begin the Red Trail. This trail has so much punch packed into a short, wooded hike. Beautiful stone fencing runs along the trail, remnants of early settlers. Chandler Creek runs along the trail for a bit, accompanied by gorgeous wildflowers (the Preserve touts over 300 species). I would suggest hitting this trail in April or May for best wildflower views. Next is the highlight of the trail, the overlook. Huge flat rocks make for a perfect point to rest, relax and enjoy the view. Next I headed off the Red Trail onto the Yellow Trail. This made for a perfect detour to view the spectacular display of wildflowers and a quaint wooden bridge spanning over a beautiful waterfall. Unfortunately, because of time constraints, I had to head back via the Meadow Trail, unable to finish the entire Red Trail. Be sure to check closing times before you head out. I had to cut my hike short because the trails closed at 4:30. If you are anywhere near the Lexington area, be sure to put this hike on your spring to-do list!

Waterfall Trail Loop - Blackacre Nature Preserve

Location: Blackacre Nature Preserve & Homestead (Jefferson County)
Distance: (30 minutes)
Difficulty: Easy

Blackacre is a hidden treasure in the Jeffersontown (Louisville) area. Offering programs for students and adults alike, it is a nice retreat from the hustle and bustle of the metro area. There are a total of 6 trails on the Preserve, ranging from 30 minutes to 1 hour. I walked the popular Waterfall Trail. The trail head is just past the Homestead. Since it is a loop, I chose to began by heading north toward Jackson's pond, saving the best part of the trail for last. Shortly after passing the pond the trail gets a little tricky to follow. Be sure that once you walk out of the woods, into the clearing, that you veer left at the fork (heading back into the woods). Once back into the woods you get a glimpse of the historic rock quarry. As the trail snakes around, the beautiful rock formations and waterfall come into view. At the time I hiked this trail, the creek was mostly dry. Hopefully you can catch the water at full force to get the most from this trail.

Sun & Shade Loop - Bernheim

Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest (Bullitt County)
Distance: (30 minutes)
Difficulty: Easy

This trail is also super easy. Just as the name implies, you get a little bit of sun, a little bit of shade. I started clockwise on the loop. The trail is a combination of gravel and pavement on the "sun" portion, then winding through the woods for the "shade" portion. There are lots of tree varieties along this trail, and are well marked (for all you horticultural fanatics.) There are also lots of resting benches so be sure to stop and take in the scenery as you go. Again, I hiked this one in mid March, but would be beautiful any time of year. The wooded portion has several wooden bridges that cross over small creeks. There were also lots of down trees (I'm assuming from the heavy snow and ice we've had over the last few winters.) But they have done a great job of keeping the trail clean and easily passable. After coming out of the woods, you'll see a great view of Lake Nevin. Be sure to bear right as this trail also connects to the Lake Nevin Loop trail. Bear right again to close out the trail (and hit the bathrooms!) 

Buck Run Trail - Bernheim

Location: Bernheim Arboretum & Research Forest (Bullitt County)
Distance: .5 mile loop (20-30 minutes)
Difficulty: Easy

Ok, I'm a sucker for an easy, yet scenic trail, and this one lives up to it. This trail was originally established as a wildflower trail, for good reason. I hiked this in March, but I would suggest hitting it a little farther into spring, to catch all the ferns and wildflowers in bloom. It's a great warm-up trail or as a quick, peaceful break. The trail is mostly flat and treks along side Rock Run creek. The scenic views also include limestone overhangs, a few small waterfalls and the constant relaxing sound of the bubbling creek. Be careful of the steep ledges that separate the trail from the creek. It makes for a great view of the water but watch your children! After crossing the creek at the halfway mark, you'll hit the only steep incline on the entire trail. After that you're home free. As with all trails, be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles. I'm also an advocate for reduction of what I call noise pollution on trails. Screaming children, talking on your cell phone, or just talking loud in general disrupts the tranquil hiking experience for everyone. Use your inside voice when hiking.