Looking for outdoor adventure near Lexington, Kentucky? Check out the Veterans Park Mountain Bike Trails!
We've been trying to enjoy the great outdoors as much as possible this year.
Usually that means hiking and camping. But this year, for a change, we added mountain biking into the rotation!
It's opened up chances to explore unfamiliar parks and trails in our region.
While I never used to think of Lexington, Kentucky, as a hub of outdoor recreation, it has surprised me somewhat recently.
Last year we discovered Raven Run Nature Sanctuary, a beautiful hike not too far from the downtown area.
The University of Kentucky Arboretum is another beauty spot with some great walks, and it's centrally located.
Now that we're getting into mountain biking, we decided to check out Veterans Park Mountain Bike Trails on the southern edge of Lexington.
Looking for places to eat while you explore Lexington's parks and trails? Check out Bru Burger Bar, Señor Chimi, The Local Taco, Pietana, or Han Woo Ri! Or Crank & Boom for a delicious ice cream break!
What to Know Before You Head Out
The park website refers to a 3.5-mile long mountain bike trail, but it was really multiple trails that intertwine and aren't all clearly marked.
But cell phone signal is good in this area, and it's easy enough to follow the trails on a map!
I recommend following along as you bike with a GPS trail map (like on AllTrails).
The trails are well-maintained, but, of course, weather will play a big part in day-to-day conditions. It had rained the day before we went, so the trails were muddy.
The trails are all easy or intermediate, but there are lots of built-in ramps and rollovers to make the trail more interesting or challenging if you’re an experienced rider.
If you're looking for a new outdoor hobby like we were, check out my guide to mountain biking gear for beginners for tips on things like half-finger biking gloves and a bicycle helmet with a built-in light! If you're looking to upgrade your gear, see my review of Diamondback bikes.
Finding Your Way On Veterans Park Mountain Bike Trails
Once you get to Veterans Park, drive past the disc golf area and follow the signs for trail access.
Ride along the paved path until you reach the first trail sign.
We turned right onto the Jetstream trail to start our ride.
Then we made a loop by biking on Swamp Donkey, 100 Proof, and a few unnamed trails.
We also biked past lots of gorgeous flowers and a turtle.
Along the way, we intersected several other trails.
Since my sense of direction is not great, the GPS was really helpful!
The park's website mentions that the trails at Veterans Park are multi-use, so it's good to be aware of people walking or jogging.
When we were there, it was not crowded at all.
We enjoyed our time exploring Veterans Park Mountain Biking Trails, and thought it was just the right amount of challenge for newbies to the hobby!
Hanging out in northern Kentucky? Check out the biking trails at England-Idlewild Park!
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