We Love Forests

Beautiful attractions and natural wonders from around the Interwood office.

Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest

Bernheim Forest and Arboretum (formerly Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest) is a 16,000+‑acre natural sanctuary located just 25 miles south of Louisville, Kentucky. Founded in 1929 by philanthropist Isaac W. Bernheim, this expansive preserve intertwines a living arboretum with undeveloped forests to offer a place where art, education, conservation, and wonder come together in harmony.

Bernheim is equally committed to conservation, research, and cultural enrichment. It operates an impressive arboretum with over 600 acres and thousands of labeled tree and plant species, maintains an Artist-in-Residence program that brings art into the landscape, and supports long-term ecological studies and environmental stewardship initiatives

Cherokee Park

Cherokee Park is a 409-acre municipal park located in Louisville, KY, and is part of the Louisville Olmsted Parks Conservancy. Beargrass Creek runs through much of the park, and is crossed by numerous pedestrian and automobile bridges.

When Frederick Law Olmsted designed Louisville’s park system, he started with three main parks: Cherokee, Iroquois and Shawnee. Designed in 1891, Cherokee Park is the East Louisville cornerstone of the park system and provides a pastoral setting amid rolling hills, open meadows and woodlands of the Beargrass Creek valley.

Natural Bridge State Resort Park

Located near the Red River Gorge Geological Area, the natural sandstone arch bridge spans 78 feet and is 65 feet high. The park features rooms, cottages, restaurant, bar and miles of hiking trails.

Top Five Things to Do

– Hike the scenic trail to Natural Bridge or ride the skylift.
– Explore the Red River Gorge area.
– Enjoy the Historic Nature Center.
– Hike Henson’s Arch or tour Natural Bridge Cave.
– Reserve a private cottage or lodge room to view fall foliage.

Waterfront Botanical Gardens

The Waterfront Botanical Gardens was started by Botanica, an umbrella organization for the local gardening community started in 1993 to help enlighten, entertain, and educate the community about the botanical world. In 2001, Botanica learned that it was the beneficiary of a trust established by member Helen Harrigan, a local gardener with a desire to see a botanical garden and conservatory built in Louisville. Helen’s gift reshaped the focus of this organization, and we set about our work to create what has become Louisville’s Waterfront Botanical Gardens.

Yew Dell Botanical Gardens

Yew Dell is an internationally-recognized garden and education center, set on the historic former estate of Theodore Klein. Visitors can explore stunning display gardens, enjoy educational programs and events, and experience ongoing plant research and hiking trails. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Yew Dell is a Preservation Partner of the Garden Conservancy.