Trip West - Bernheim Forest and the Forest Giants

I had hoped to stay at the the Old Kentuck Home State Park but when I checked availability the reviews all mentioned how small the sites were, tight turns and the utilities being far away from the actual site, someone mentioned this campground so we cam here instead, only 5-10 minutes away and a nice big site.

Our first full day we head out to Bernheim Forest to see the Forest Giants, 

the reason for stopping in Bardstown.  Friends had recommended we listen to 60's on 6 on Sirius Radio because the DJ was always talking about interesting places he had visited.  The first time we tuned in he was talking about the Forest Giants.  I told Gary - we have to go there!

It is a large place.   Just over 16,000 acres, it was purchased by a German immigrant, Isaac Bernheim in 1929, the land was given as a gift to the people of his new homeland.  There are 40 miles of trails.  We start at the Canopy Tree walk as I figure it would be the busiest part, a walk amongst the tree tops suspended 75' above the forest floor. I was surprised not to see any other cars when we got there 

We head down the path and I was so disappointed that it was just a short boardwalk to a view about the forest

We we will just hike to the Fire Tower - I love climbing Fire Towers!

There it is - but it is closed!  Strike 2.  Might as well head to the Forest Giant walk, 

the main reason for coming

We drive back down to the main visitor area and park.  An interesting Tree Sculpture

and a Purple Martin Condominium

Looks like some interested parties

Danish Artist Thomas Dambo for the 90th anniversary of the Park created 3 giant sculptures throughout the Arboretum made out of recycled wood from the Region.  The Giants are scattered around a 2 mile loop trail by the lakes.  

We just need to follow their footsteps

Could always use more immigrants like him,

First is Little Nis, the youngest and smallest of the Forest Giants.  Here he is discovering his reflection.  He doesn't mind Tucson resting on his hand

We continue on the trail

Next is Mama Loumari.  Looks like she is expecting another baby.

One more to go

We learn interesting facts along the way

The ponds were created by Frederick Law Olmstead

and there are artist displays such as these textile hangings

Lastly we come upon Little Elina.  Tucson takes a break with her

and I hung out wth her too

She is making a stone art piece - looks like a leaf to me.

The project is here for 3 years so I believe next year will be the last chance to see it.  Not sure if they will be moving to another forest somewhere.

Definitely worth the detour to see it.