Five great things to do outside this summer

Start your outdoor escapades at Clear Creek Park, a gem in Shelby County. This expansive park offers a plethora of recreational opportunities, including walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and even a 9-hole golf course! Take a leisurely stroll along the serene nature trails, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy the company of family and friends amidst the park's picturesque beauty. Or enjoy the Family Activity Center's outdoor pool with fountains and a water slide! 

Known the world over as the Saddlebred Horse Capital of the World, ShelbyKY is home to one of Kentucky's only horseback riding centers — Red Fern Riding Center. Guests can participate in a leisurely 60-minute guided trail ride through acres of beautiful wooded lands in Shelby County, led by experienced horseback riders and instructors. Or, for adventure seekers, the 90-minute Adventure Ride is the perfect option with more challenging terrain — climb steeper hills, cross creeks, and even have an encounter with wildlife! 

Guist Creek Lake is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. With options for boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the lake's calm waters, the entire family will enjoy their day at Guist Creek. Fishing is another popular activity, as the lake is stocked with various fish species. Remember to check for any permits or licenses required before fishing, though. And, the new Channel Cat Fish House is a great place to grab a bite after a day on the water.

Red Orchard Park is a picturesque park that provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the trails, have a picnic in the open green spaces, or try your hand at birdwatching. With a boat launch area, Red Orchard Park is also an excellent place to begin kayaking or canoeing along Clear Creek. The park is also home to Shelby County's only dog park, so your four-legged friends can have an off-leash adventure! 

Enjoy a bit of the outdoors while exploring the Kentucky Bourbon Trail! Pay a visit to the Jeptha Creed Distillery and enjoy this family-owned distillery with tasting experiences you can't get anywhere else. The Barrel Tasting Experience is unique among Kentucky's distilleries. During the open-air experience, one lucky guest even gets to help thieve the bourbon straight from the barrel — a bourbon-industry term for pulling bourbon from the barrel with a stave. After your barrel tasting, retreat to the patio for games and good conversation, and even better bourbon.