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Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission

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Vernon-Douglas State Nature Preserve

Location: Hardin County
Size: 730 acres
Access: Open to the public Open to Public
Brochure/Trail Map:
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Owner/Manager:
* KSNPC

Dedicated Aug. 12, 1992, Vernon-Douglas State Nature Preserve is located within a rugged, steep, forested section of Hardin County. This 730-acre preserve protects one of the most mature second-growth forests in the Knobs physiographic region. Hall Hollow, a north-facing valley in the preserve, supports a rich array of spring wildflowers. A trail system passes through the valley bottom to the dry ridges above Hall Hollow. A spur trail takes hikers onto a narrow point locally known as "the pinnacle," which provides a bird's-eye view of the Younger Creek valley.

Features - stands of sugar maple, beech and tulip poplar; spring wildflower display
Access - 4.5 miles of trail over uneven terrain, moderate to strenuous
Facilities - none
Hazards - venomous snakes (rare), steep slopes
Activities - hiking, nature study, birding, etc.
Directions - Hardin County. From Elizabethtown, take the Bluegrass Parkway east 9.0 miles to KY 583. Exit right and turn right at the stop sign. Immediately turn right again onto Audubon Trace Road. Drive 0.5 mile to the preserve and park in parking lot on left.