Hidden gems abound in the Bluegrass, whether it’s a tiny town worth exploring, off-the-beaten path restaurant, or enchanting natural oasis. Today’s adventure is of the natural variety; a hidden gem park located mere minutes from Lexington. McConnell Springs boasts 26 miles of trails and some of the bluest steams and verdant greenery in Kentucky, and it’s a marvelous place worth discovering.
Just outside of the hustle and bustle of Lexington, Kentucky, McConnell Springs is an unexpected natural pocket within a heavily industrial area.
Lexington, KY Parks & Recreation/Facebook
William McConnell first set up camp here in 1775, and in the centuries since, McConnell Springs has seen a variety of farming and other activities. Today, it’s a small sanctuary just outside Lexington with stunning natural features and lots of beginner-friendly trails.
Alberto Rubio/Google Local
The park’s hallmark is the Blue Hole, one of two major springs at McConnell Springs. The waters originate from a wide area southwest of Lexington, flowing underground through the limestone bedrock.
Lexington, KY Parks & Recreation/Facebook
Prismatic effects due to its depth of 15 feet cause the pool’s eponymous and striking blue hue. This open body of water was caused by a discharge of water from a fissure in the bedrock that had sufficient force to blow away the overlying soil and sediment.
Lexington, KY Parks & Recreation/Facebook
Today, the water fills the pool below, making for a spectacular scene that’s like Kentucky’s very own Hamilton Pool!
Justin B/Google Local
Beautiful all-year long, each season presents visitors with a fresh perspective and new, wholly wondrous experience. The park’s trails allow visitors to get up-close with its numerous natural wonders, from the natural pools to its statuesque, 250-foot Burr Oak.
Lexington, KY Parks & Recreation/Facebook
Dog friendly and full of fantastic flora and fauna, this hidden oasis in Kentucky is sure to capture your heart and imagination.
Joe Kelly/Google Local
John Muir said that the clearest way into the universe was through a forest wilderness. When you visit McConnell Springs, you might just think you’ve stumbled on the key to the universe… right here in Lexington, Kentucky.
Lexington, KY Parks & Recreation/Facebook
Have you explored this beguiling natural area before? McConnell Springs is a wonderful escape in Lexington, Kentucky!
Lexington, KY Parks & Recreation/Facebook
Alberto Rubio/Google Local
Justin B/Google Local
Joe Kelly/Google Local
Looking for more natural wonders in Kentucky? There’s a whole world of wonder just waiting to be explored in the Bluegrass State.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: McConnell Springs, 416 Rebmann Ln, Lexington, KY 40504, USA
