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Highland Hills Park Loop

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Hiking trails & Routes

Highland Hills Park Loop

Easy

4.8

(6149)

12,191

hikers

Highland Hills Park Loop

Q: What is the overall difficulty of the Highland Hills Park Loop?

While the Highland Hills Park Loop is generally considered of moderate difficulty, sections closer to the park's entrance are relatively easy and suitable for children aged four and over. The newer extensions, particularly those utilizing the former utility right-of-way, are more challenging and recommended for hikers aged six and above.

Q: Is this a loop trail or an out-and-back?

The Highland Hills Park Loop is a loop trail, offering a continuous path without needing to retrace your steps. This allows you to experience all its features without repetition.

Q: Where can I park to access the trail?

You can find parking available at Highland Hills Park, which provides direct access to the trailhead for the Highland Hills Park Loop.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on the hike?

The trail features varied terrain, including areas that can be muddy, especially after rain. You'll encounter numerous spots with running water and babbling creeks, with bridges provided for easy crossings. The path winds through lush greenery, and some sections reveal exposed rocks where invasive honeysuckle has been removed.

Q: What unique features or art can I find along the route?

A standout feature of the trail is the collection of creative woodcarvings by artist Chris Rust. These unique art installations, often sculpted from dead ash trees, include cardinals, owls, gnomes, and even aliens, adding a fun discovery element to your hike.

Q: What wildlife might I encounter on the hike?

Despite being in a suburban area, the park boasts an abundance of wildlife. Hikers may spot lizards sunning themselves on exposed rocks, deer, and various birds of prey like hawks. In warmer months, you might also see purple flowers along the path.

Q: When is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail is enjoyable throughout the warmer months, when the lush greenery is at its peak. However, be aware that sections can become muddy after rain. For a good workout, the utility right-of-way section is particularly engaging.

Q: Is the Highland Hills Park Loop suitable for families with children?

Yes, it is family-friendly. The sections closer to the park's entrance are relatively easy and suitable for children aged four and over. For older children (six and above) seeking more of a challenge, the newer extensions on the utility right-of-way offer a good workout.

Q: Is the trail dog-friendly?

The Highland Hills Park Loop is generally dog-friendly, making it a great option for hiking with your canine companion. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all visitors.

Q: Are there any fees or permits required to hike in Highland Hills Park?

No, there are no specific fees or permits required to access and hike the Highland Hills Park Loop. The park is open to the public for enjoyment.

00:44

2.76km

30m

Hiking

Step into the enchanting world of the Highland Hills Park Loop, where lush greenery meets artistic surprises. This easy 1.7-mile (2.8 km) hike, taking about 44 minutes with 112 feet (34 metres) of elevation gain, winds through wooded hillsides and alongside babbling creeks. The trail's paths are a mix of gravel and unpaved sections, offering a pleasant journey through natural landscapes and mature trees like walnuts and hackberries.

Planning your visit to Highland Hills Park is straightforward; the trail is dog-friendly, allowing leashed pets to join your adventure. Be prepared for potentially muddy sections, especially after rain, as some areas have running water. While the closer-in trails are generally easier, some newer sections can be more challenging, so choose your path based on your group's comfort level.

What truly sets this Fort Thomas, Kentucky trail apart are the unique woodcarvings by chainsaw artist Chris Rust, scattered along the route. These whimsical figures, carved from dead ash trees, create a delightful scavenger hunt experience, perfect for families. Keep an eye out for cardinals, owls, gnomes, and aliens hidden among the trees, adding an unexpected artistic flair to your nature walk.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

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2.76 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

1.55 km

949 m

256 m

Surfaces

1.40 km

986 m

221 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Sunday 12 July

29°C

20°C

67 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the overall difficulty of the Highland Hills Park Loop?

While the Highland Hills Park Loop is generally considered of moderate difficulty, sections closer to the park's entrance are relatively easy and suitable for children aged four and over. The newer extensions, particularly those utilizing the former utility right-of-way, are more challenging and recommended for hikers aged six and above.

Is this a loop trail or an out-and-back?

The Highland Hills Park Loop is a loop trail, offering a continuous path without needing to retrace your steps. This allows you to experience all its features without repetition.

Where can I park to access the trail?

You can find parking available at Highland Hills Park, which provides direct access to the trailhead for the Highland Hills Park Loop.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the hike?

The trail features varied terrain, including areas that can be muddy, especially after rain. You'll encounter numerous spots with running water and babbling creeks, with bridges provided for easy crossings. The path winds through lush greenery, and some sections reveal exposed rocks where invasive honeysuckle has been removed.

What unique features or art can I find along the route?

A standout feature of the trail is the collection of creative woodcarvings by artist Chris Rust. These unique art installations, often sculpted from dead ash trees, include cardinals, owls, gnomes, and even aliens, adding a fun discovery element to your hike.

What wildlife might I encounter on the hike?

Despite being in a suburban area, the park boasts an abundance of wildlife. Hikers may spot lizards sunning themselves on exposed rocks, deer, and various birds of prey like hawks. In warmer months, you might also see purple flowers along the path.

When is the best time of year to hike this trail?

The trail is enjoyable throughout the warmer months, when the lush greenery is at its peak. However, be aware that sections can become muddy after rain. For a good workout, the utility right-of-way section is particularly engaging.

Is the Highland Hills Park Loop suitable for families with children?

Yes, it is family-friendly. The sections closer to the park's entrance are relatively easy and suitable for children aged four and over. For older children (six and above) seeking more of a challenge, the newer extensions on the utility right-of-way offer a good workout.

Is the trail dog-friendly?

The Highland Hills Park Loop is generally dog-friendly, making it a great option for hiking with your canine companion. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all visitors.

Are there any fees or permits required to hike in Highland Hills Park?

No, there are no specific fees or permits required to access and hike the Highland Hills Park Loop. The park is open to the public for enjoyment.

Are there any benches or picnic areas along the trail?

Yes, the park provides benches and picnic tables at various points along the trail. These are perfect for taking a break, enjoying a snack, or simply soaking in the natural surroundings.