The entire site is privately owned by the Isaac W. Bernheim Foundation, not the state or federal government.
Bernheim maintains a 2,000-acre arboretum specifically designed to showcase plants that thrive in the local climate.
The Forest Giants sculptures are temporary, site-specific art pieces intended to naturally decompose over time.
The site includes a designated 'wildlands' area where human activity is strictly limited to prioritize ecological restoration.
Bernheim was founded by a German-Jewish immigrant who intended for the forest to be a public refuge for the people of Kentucky.
The Edible Garden demonstrates organic gardening techniques and serves as a teaching space for local food production.
The arboretum features a specific section dedicated to the display and study of ginkgo trees.
The site experiences a significant elevation change, with ridges providing panoramic views of the surrounding Bullitt County landscape.
Bernheim Forest and Arboretum is a massive 16,000-acre private land preserve located in Clermont, Kentucky. Established by Isaac Wolfe Bernheim in 1929, the site balances ecological conservation with public art installations and an arboretum. The grounds house the Forest Giants in a Giant Forest, a series of large-scale sculptures crafted from recycled wood by artist Thomas Dambo. Visitors can explore over 40 miles of hiking trails ranging from short loops to challenging treks through varying terrain. The arboretum features a diverse collection of trees and shrubs, including a designated conifer collection and native Kentucky species. A Canopy Tree Walk elevates visitors 75 feet above the forest floor for bird's-eye views of the woodland canopy. The site serves as a research station for studying climate change and wildlife migration in the region. Education programs are offered at the Education Center, which incorporates sustainable design features like geothermal heating. The preserve functions as a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including over 200 species of birds.
The elevated platform of the Canopy Tree Walk.
Bring comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes as many trails have uneven, natural surfaces.
Check the official website for maps, as the forest is vast and cell service can be intermittent.
Pack a reusable water bottle, as the forest is large and hydration stations are limited to specific areas.
Attempting to see the entire 16,000-acre property on foot in a single day.
Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day; open daily otherwise.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive habitat; pack out all trash; do not feed wildlife.
