Matthew Pertz, Opinion Editor // Camp Nelson and Raven Run
Springtime marks the unofficial start of running season with 5Ks and half-marathons nearly every weekend in April. If you’re trying to get in shape and you’ve gotten tired of the roads here in Wilmore, try Camp Nelson in Nicholasville or Raven Run Nature Sanctuary in Lexington. Located just off of US-27, Camp Nelson provides open trails and hidden paths along with a historical journey into the Civil War. Meanwhile, Raven Run boasts over ten miles of dirt trails and over 200 species of birds. While I don’t recommend bird-watching and marathon training simultaneously, this park doles out enough entertainment to ensure you’ll want to visit again.
Kayleen Bengtson, Business Manager // Keeneland
Whether you are a fan of horses or frightened by them, Keeneland is a perfect springtime activity for any and all! Beautiful sunshine, preppy attire, horse races and endless people-watching call for a great weekend afternoon. The best part is general admission is only $5, cost effective for every college budget.
Diego Molina, Photographer // The Pinnacles
My favorite springtime activity is waking up early and going hiking at The Pinnacles in Berea, KY! It’s about an hour from campus and it’s a fun drive. They’ve got great lookouts to choose from with great spots to set up an Eno. If you’re looking for something a little more challenging then Raven Run, go here. It’s definitely worth it. It’s relatively private as I don’t tend to see people on the trails until around noon. Getting there is the hardest part. There’s no address or anything. Just put Prospect St Berea, KY into your phone and follow that road until you see a big parking lot hill on your left.
Allison Antram, Managing Editor // Downtown Lexington
When the weather starts to get warmer, I tend to want to go and drive. Fortunately, the growing Lexington community is a 30-minute drive from our small town environment of Wilmore, and there’s more to experience than people realize. For instance, starting in April, there’s a Farmers Market downtown every Saturday morning (Fifth Third Bank Pavilion) where there are a wealth of local vendors selling a variety of products from food to flowers. For those wanting to walk or spend time outside, the University of Kentucky Arboretum is a garden that showcases the beauty of spring in Kentucky and offers many jogging and walking trails. Not to mention, downtown Lexington also hosts a slough of great eating options, like Vinaigrette Salad Kitchen for a fresh lunch option; or with a little more driving, Crank & Boom ice cream (because who doesn’t want ice cream in the spring?).
Robin Gericke, Features Editor // Red River Gorge
Warmer weather and sunny days means it’s time to hike and camp. Red River Gorge is a popular destination for outdoor activities, offering opportunities to climb, camp, hammock and hike along with beautiful views. Students who want to go camping but don’t have the gear can rent equipment through the Adventure Leadership Program. Contact Trent Ellsworth for rental information.