Ben Hawes State Park

Looking to spend some quality time with your furry BFF? Then hop into the car and head over to the Ben Hawes Park! Named after former Owensboro mayor Benjamin W. Hawes, this 300-acre green space is the pawfect spot to spend a beautiful afternoon with your pup. Because the park is located at the edge of the city, it feels peaceful and secluded, yet it offers quite a few recreational activities for two- and four-legged visitors to enjoy.

Ben Hawes is home to an archery range, the Ben Hawes Golf Course, and the Owensboro Lions Club Soap Box Derby track. But canine parkgoers will appreciate the Rudy Mine Trails the most. With ruffly 12 miles of wooded trails to explore, your adventurous pup's tail will be wagging all throughout! The single and double track trails intersect and connect with one another, allowing you to customize your route. And with paths ranging from easy to moderate, there's something for canine hikers of all skill levels.

Keep in mind that the trails are open to both hikers and mountain bikers, so always keep your pupper on a leash for everyone's safety. Also, note the direction that you and Fido are supposed to go in, as indicated on the signs. Depending on the day of the week, hikers and runners are to travel in one direction, while bikers on the same path are to head in the opposite direction. Aside from cyclists, you and your doggo might encounter deer, turkeys, squirrels, and other wildlife along the way.

After your hike, duck under one of the park's three open-air shelters to rest your legs and refuel with a packed lunch. Wherever you and your pooch go in the park, be sure to always clean up after them. Don't forget to bring waste bags, as well as water to share with your thirsty pup. 

With its pawsome trails and relaxing atmosphere, the Ben Hawes Park will surely get four paws up from Fido!