• Shared use paths ( non-Louisville Loop ): 27 miles
Hiking , Biking and Equestrian Trails - Soft Surface
The LMPRD manages a varied system of soft-surface recreational trails for hikers , trail runners , cyclists and equestrians . Staging areas are provided in a number of locations to serve as trails heads , with parking , signs , and restrooms where feasible .
Potential conflicts between different user groups is an issue of concern for soft surface trails as well as paved trails . Such issues can be resolved through proper planning , design , education and management . For example , trails along narrow riparian corridors or sensitive natural areas may be appropriate for limited development and use by pedestrians only . In more suitable locations , wider trails can be designed and managed to accommodate pedestrians , bicyclists and equestrians as long as all three user groups are part of the planning and design of the trails . Some trails can be designed to accommodate two user groups such as hikers and equestrians .
Mountain biking is a growing sport and park managers must address several issues of concern related to use of mountain bikes on trails including potential user conflicts and trail safety issues for pedestrians , equestrians and other cyclists as well as environmental quality .
Hiking at Jefferson Memorial Forest
In areas where components of the natural environment such as soils and vegetation are sensitive to disturbance , mountain biking and equestrians should be prohibited . Similarly , the potential for damage to valued historic landscapes should be carefully monitored and , if necessary , controlled . In addition to efforts at policing and enforcement , such potential problems will also need to be addressed through education of mountain bicyclists and equestrians about proper trail use , timing of trail use ( e . g . not during wet or muddy conditions ) and designation of appropriately designed trails to accommodate the activity .
Development of cooperative working relationships with hikers , trail runners , mountain bikers and equestrians must be part of the long-term strategy for providing appropriate locations for these activities . The 1995 Plan recommended that LMPRD develop a minimum of two designated mountain bike use areas within the parks system . It is important that the location of these trails take into account the potential impacts on the park landscapes and their natural resources . Mountain bike trails are now located in Cherokee , Seneca and Waverly Parks , with a potential for additional trails to be developed in the western Moremen Hill section of the Jefferson Memorial Forest . The Parklands of Floyds Fork has 10.5 miles of mountain bike trails and 21 miles of hiking trails .
98 IV . PARK AND RECREATIONAL FACILITY NEEDS ANALYSIS | October 2016 Update