About
1 mile looped trail, Trailhead #3, follow Kentucky River floodplain, view High Bridge and Shaker building foundations, rated easy
General Description
Discover America's largest restored Shaker community, where a
remarkable society, the Shakers, once flourished. Here, history and
hospitality come together to create experiences guests will want to
enjoy again and again. The Shakers played an important role in
American religious history, developing the longest lasting
communal society. Their legacy is found not only in the furniture and
buildings thatremain at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, but also in
their ideals of equality, peace and love. The non-profit organization
offers opportunities for visitors to make memories as lasting as the Shaker story itself.
Shaker Village is set on 3,000 acres of rolling countryside in the
heart of Kentucky's Bluegrass region. With over 40 miles of multi-use
trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, combined with bird
watching and wildflower observation, this National Historic Landmark is
a nature lover's paradise. Equipped with 20 stalls, five large
paddocks and a heated tack room, The Stables on the property offer a
one-stop-shop experience for equestrians. The Nature Preserve boasts
native grasses and abundant wildlife, notably Bobwhite quail, due to
ongoing conservation efforts that have made it one of the most
successful quail restoration projects in the Commonwealth. Located
along the Kentucky River, the Dixie Belle Riverboat provides scenic
cruises through the Palisades. Canoe and kayak access is available,
but boats are not provided. 34 original, restored buildings remain,
some which house the Museum that gives a glimpse into thelives of the
religious group that once called Shaker Village home. Craft stores on
the grounds provide a large selection of arts and crafts.