Take The Grandkids On A Spring Flower Hike

This spring, plan some family time in the great outdoors – coat-free and ready to soak up some vitamin D! According to the National Park Service, walking in nature improves mood, self-esteem, and relaxation. And one-on-one grandkid/grandparent time spent in the sunshine walking or skipping through grassy paths and tree-covered lanes allows for deeper connections to grow. These are the walks (and the talks) that build family memories. To help you on your way, we found three of the best springtime strolls here in town. So, get ready to step outside and “tiptoe through the tulips” together.

This 2-mile paved trail is an easy walk for taking in a little family time. The Anchorage Loop Trail has all the pretty things like wooded paths, a tree swing, and a beautiful lake. But let’s not forget the wildflowers you’ll see as you stroll along. Spring flowers like tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths begin blooming at the end of March, and others need more sunshine and don’t start until May or the middle of June. Talk to your grandkids about the different colors and blooms as you walk, and then find a shady spot to unpack your crayons and draw your favorite flower together.

2. Yew Dell Botanical Gardens

A member of the National Register of Historic Places since 2010, Yew Dell has one of the region’s largest and most diverse plant collections. With themed gardens that showcase herbs, spring flowers, and an outstanding tree and shrub collection, the beauty of nature is all around you. The Pollinator Meadow provides a habitat for pollinators like butterflies, hummingbirds, and bees, and this is a wonderful place to view all the colorful wildflowers. So, take a picnic or enjoy a juice box in this calm setting. Also, your little ones will love the Fairy Forest Village situated among the trees with tiny fairy houses made from natural materials.

3. Harrods Creek Park

Located in Prospect, just north of Louisville, Harrods Creek offers trails ranging from easy to moderate. The hiking is well-marked and the 2.2-loop trail takes around 52 minutes to complete. While you walk or dance through fields and forests with your grandkids, you’ll be able to check out the spring flowers. Have a “color hunt” and count how many blue, white, or yellow blossoms you pass. And don’t forget to look up! Point out the blooming flowers the trees are showing off this time of year, especially the vibrant blue color of the Virginia bluebells that grow in Harrods Creek.

By Tonilyn Hornung

P.S. Fun On The Farm In The Great (Local) Outdoors