Cherokee Park – Cherokee Park Scenic Loop loop from St. Matthews

The Cherokee Park – Cherokee Park Scenic Loop loop from St. Matthews is one of those road cycling routes that truly tests your endurance, offering a difficult 87.4-mile (140.6 km) journey with 4205 feet (1282 metres) of climbing over roughly 6 hours and 56 minutes. This is a significant ride for experienced cyclists looking for a long day in the saddle, combining urban access with a historic park's natural beauty.

What to expect on Cherokee Park – Cherokee Park Scenic Loop loop from St. Matthews

This route takes you from St. Matthews into the heart of Cherokee Park, a masterpiece designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. You will navigate a varied landscape of rolling hills, open meadows, and dense woodlands, particularly within the scenic Beargrass Creek valley. The core Cherokee Park Scenic Loop features a dedicated paved path, offering a safer and more enjoyable experience with separate lanes for recreational users. Keep an eye out for notable landmarks like Baringer Springs, Hogan's Fountain, and Christensen Fountain as you cycle. While the park's internal loop has moderate hills, the full distance and elevation from St. Matthews make this a challenging ride best suited for well-conditioned road cyclists.

Planning your visit

Starting from St. Matthews, you will find generally easy, paved roads leading into Cherokee Park. Once inside, the park's thoughtful design with separate lanes for cyclists enhances safety, allowing you to focus on the ride. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for accessing the park. Given the substantial distance and duration, plan to start early to allow ample time to complete the loop comfortably, especially if you want to enjoy the park's features without rushing.

Trail details

• Distance: 87.4 miles (140.6 km)
• Elevation gain: 4205 feet (1282 metres)
• Difficulty: difficult
• Estimated time: 6 hours and 56 minutes