Hiking
The Forest has over 35 miles of hiking trails, ranging from the Siltstone trail (a rugged 6.2 miles, one way) to the Tulip Tree Trail (paved 0.2 miles, one way). Click here for more information.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted at the 5.5 acre Tom Wallace Lake across from the Welcome Center. Tom Wallace Lake is stocked with bass, bluegill, and catfish. A Kentucky fishing license is required, but fishing is otherwise free. Electric trolling motors, rowboats, and canoes are permitted. Please note there is no boat ramp or canoe launch at the lake. Gasoline powered motor boats are not permitted.
Birdwatching
Our bird blind is open to the public by appointment. Please call the Welcome Center at (502) 368-5404 to schedule a visit and please stop by the Welcome Center to pick up a Horine Reservation permit the day of your visit.
The bird feeding station and bird identification guides were provided through the generosity of Wild Birds Unlimited of Louisville.
Picnicing / Playgrounds
There are four picnic shelters available for rent in the Forest. To reserve a shelter, please call Metro Parks at (502) 368-5404.
Tom Wallace Lake
- children's playground
- 3 shelters, each with seating for 24 people
- 2 of the shelters have large grills
- none of the shelters have electricity or water
- Shelters may be reserved for $25, and are otherwise available for use on a first come, first served basis.
Paul Yost Recreation Area
- 1 shelter, with seating for 60 people
- no electricity, water, or restroom
- Shelter may be reserved for $75, and is otherwise available for use on a first come, first served basis.
- Grills
There are also a number of unsheltered picnic tables with grills at Tom Wallace Lake and the Paul Yost Recreation Area.
Horse Riding Trails
There are horse riding trails in the Tom Wallace and Paul Yost sections. Please note that these are in need of improvement. If you would be interested in volunteering your time to assist with maintenance of horse trails at the Forest, please contact the Welcome Center at 368-5404.