The natural beauty of Kentucky is undeniable, and there’s no better way to experience it than within our incredible state parks. The Kentucky State Parks system is vast, diverse, easily accessible, and a wonderful feature for locals and visitors to the Bluegrass State. Each park has its own special traits, but one, in particular, is hiding a rare and eye-catching sight. Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park is home to a truly unique natural wonder, and it can be found amongst the trees along a scenic trail in the park.
Located in western Kentucky, Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park is situated around a picturesque lake. It is actually this lake that is the source of many of the wonderful activities and scenery within the park.
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Perhaps the most popular feature in Pennyrile is the sandy beach. It’s a must-visit on a hot summer day and is definitely one of the best in the state. However, Mother Nature has provided even more natural wonders within the park to experience…
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There are several hiking trails within the park, and one of the favorites is the Lake Trail, which offers 1.8 miles of adventure around the lake. It’s along this trail, on the back side of the lake, that you’ll find unique Bald Cypress Trees.
Flickr/George Thomas
These incredible trees grow in swampy areas, and this part of the lake is the perfect environment for them to thrive. The trees shown below are from a different park, but they give you an idea of how eye-catching they are and how they enjoy the watery environment.
Flickr/Matthew Beziat
While the trees themselves are beautiful, it’s their roots that tend to raise a few questions. These photos from Pennyrile Forest show the unique nature of the trees’ “knees,” or horizontal roots called pneumatophore.
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These roots appear above ground and have a creature-like appearance that stops many hikers in their tracks to ponder what exactly they are. You’ll definitely want to seek them out as you walk the path.
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While most roots remain underground, these find their way to the surface, which actually serves an important purpose. They are thought to transport air down to the deeper roots below.
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The landscape all over Pennyrile Forest is breathtaking, but this particular section is unique with this natural wonder. When you visit this incredible Kentucky State Park, be sure to seek them out and impress your friends and family with your new knowledge of these eye-catching trees.
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The Bald Cypress Trees within Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park are just one of many enticing features to check out when you visit this incredible destination. Have you seen these unique trees within the park? Which Kentucky State Park is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
Google/Greg Mallory
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Flickr/George Thomas
Flickr/Matthew Beziat
Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park is located at 20781 Pennyrile Lodge Rd., Dawson Springs, KY 42408. For more information, visit the park’s website here.
And for more on the popular beach within the park, check out our previous article here.
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