Anderson County, situated in the Bluegrass region of Kentucky, is a landscape photographer’s dream. Rolling hills, green valleys, natural springs and waterfalls skipping down rock faces, it’s no wonder that the famous frontiersman Daniel Boone remarked that, “Heaven must be a Kentucky kind of place.” The spirit of the Bluegrass is intrinsically tied to the limestone rock beds that form the creek and river valleys that are a key element in our famed bourbon whiskey. Plan your stay near any of these outdoor adventures!
Vertigo Bungee
If taking a header from great heights gives you a thrill, check out the bungee operation at Young’s High Bridge, a one-time railroad bridge spanning the Kentucky River next to Wild Turkey Distillery. The bridge is also adjacent to the famed S-shaped Tyrone Bridge, the only one of its kind in the U.S. The cantilever-style High Bridge, once the crossing for the Louisville Southern Railroad, is now devoted full time to bungee enthusiasts thanks to four long-time friends who purchased the bridge and established Vertigo Bungee.
The jump into the river below is thought to be the only one of its kind in the eastern United States. And that plunge of 240 feet is believed to make Young’s High Bridge the highest platform bridge jump in North America. As jumps are only offered one weekend a month from May through October, it’s necessary to book in advance.
Check out this crazy video from Collin Harrington.
One advantage to doing your jump here is that if you are still shaking with fear, a tasting at Wild Turkey might be just what you need to calm your nerves. The Kentucky River Bourbon Cabin is the perfect overnight for the daredevil type.
Fishing & Boating
Anderson County is home to Beaver Lake, one of the best bass fishing lakes in Kentucky. As many a fisher will tell you, “it fishes bigger than it is.” The Kentucky Pond Hoppers host an annual Jon boat bass fishing competition in June, a rare opportunity for fishermen to compete without having an expensive boat. Limits, restrictions and regulations for fishing on Beaver Lake can be found at the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife.
A day on Taylorsville Lake is a glorious opportunity. Launch your own vessel at the Van Buren Road Taylorsville Boat Ramp. Rent a fishing boat and cast for bass, bluegill or crappie; schedule cruising time on one of the marinas pontoon boats. The marina has open and covered slips, gas, food, and fishing equipment.
Want to stay right on Beaver Lake? Check out the Lake House in the Heart of the Bourbon Trail or this cozy Lakefront Home.
Hunting
Salt River Outfitters is a full-service guided hunting experience located a short drive from downtown and bourbon distilleries. The 4,000 sq. ft lodge has seven bedrooms, three bath, a large game room and peaceful wooded grounds is perfect for group hunts. Early and late season black powder and velvet archery hunts compliment the deer and turkey hunts during the regular season.
Golfing
Wild Turkey Trace Golf Course offers an 18-hole golf course logging in at a par of 71. Water elements, creeks and ponds are a standard feature throughout the course as are 11 strategically placed sand traps. Wild Turkey has a pro shop and the Sand Trap Bar and Grill serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The outdoor pavilion hosts multiple live music events throughout the summer season. The moderate weather in Kentucky allows for almost year-round golfing.
Disc Golf has gained popularity in the last decade and Lawrenceburg offers two courses to test your backhand.
The Anderson County Community Park Disc Golf Course has 18 challenging holes with moderate hills, two elevated baskets, six par 4 holes, and three wooded holes. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, this course will provide a fun and exciting challenge for all. The course is designed to be beginner-friendly, with shorter holes and straightforward layouts that are easy to follow. For more advanced players, this course provides a unique and challenging experience that will put your skills to the test. With longer par 4 holes and wooded areas that require precision and accuracy, this course will push you to improve your game and take on new challenges.
The Lawrenceburg City Park has a small and tree-lined beginner’s course. Large mature trees provide obstacles on mainly flat holes, 8 of which range from 200-300 feet.
Hiking, Biking, Running & Walking
The Lawrenceburg City Park and Anderson County Community Park have paved trails for walkers and runners. Both are pet-friendly so Fido is welcome to get some exercise, too, as long as they are leashed. Check out Hammond Creek Dog Park at the County Park for some more free-range exercise options.
Just a :25 minute drive from downtown Lawrenceburg, the area around Taylorsville Lake boasts a wonderful 24-mile trail system managed as multi-use trails for hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Wear your hiking shoes, bring your bike, or bring your horse and enjoy the fresh outdoor air!
With rolling hills and scenic country roads to traverse, Anderson County has beautiful routes for cycling enthusiasts. See the Joy Rides page for suggested routes from flat to rolling and even a few leg burning climbs.
Hikers can also find trails nearby in Frankfort, Kentucky at Cove Spring Park & Nature Preserve and Buckley Wildlife Sanctuary.
Skate & Splash
The Anderson County Community Park Skate Park is a fun place for beginners and those a bit more adept on the deck. A concrete surface with a mini and quarter pipe and multiple plaza features. It’s free and open during normal hours.
The Splash Pad located in the Lawrenceburg City Park provides a nice place for kids to cool off on a classic hot Kentucky summer day with multiple sprayers and fountains to jump and run through. Be sure to grab a milkshake afterwards at the Lawrenceburg Fairgrounds located at the base of the park.
Downtown has several options for overnight lodging from the Best Western Lawrenceburg Inn and Trail Suites Inn, or if you are looking for a private home, check out Double Shot on Main, the Neat House or Stubborn German house.
