Bernheim offers springtime programs

“I think people still feel most safe in outdoor spaces so we’re really thrilled to be able to provide respite for people right now,” said Amy Landon, communications and marketing manager at Bernheim.

Landon said one pro­gram that is very popu­lar with spring visitors is the Wildflower Walks, which take place from 10:30 a.m. to noon Wednesdays and from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturdays. Led by Bernheim naturalists, the walks include stories on wildflower adaptation, ecology, folklore and history.

“Wildflowers are ephemeral, they tend to come and go really quickly so it’s a good chance to see them while they’re here,” Landon said.

According to Landon, another popular program Bernheim offers is the Forest Homeschool Hikes, which brings the classroom to the great outdoors. Geared toward children in kindergarten through fifth grade, the program invites families and school co-ops to learn, exercise and have fun.

“I think people who have opted to keep their kids home from the classroom have really enjoyed having those,” Landon said. At 2 p.m. Saturday, Bernheim 2020 Artist in Residence Gab­riela Boros will visit Bern­heim’s Lake Nevin Loop to lead guests on an art tour, showcasing her FEMMEnomenal Bluegrass Botanicals exhibition. Boros’ exhibit celebrates the achievements of 10 Kentucky women through the invocation of 10 native Kentucky plants. Boros also is set to host an art tour April 24 at Lake Nevin Loop.

For those who would like to bring home fresh produce after spending time in nature, YouthBuild Louisville’s Urban Conservation Corps’ Fresh Corps Farmer’s Market will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 21 at Bernheim. At the market, the youth group will sell produce grown at their site in Louisville’s Smoketown neighborhood. The market is across Arboretum Way from the visitor center by the flagpole.

Bernheim also is offering several guided hiking opportunities for families to enjoy on a regular basis. These include First Saturday Nature Hikes, which take place on the first Saturday of each month, First Sunday Nature Hikes, which take place on the first Sunday of each month, and the Friday Family Foray, which takes place each Friday in April.

For those interested in volunteering at Bernheim, a volunteer orientation session is from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Saturday. For information on registering for Bernheim events or volunteering, go to bernheim.org

“Just coming out and seeing all the colors and feeling that sense of renewal and life coming back is great every year,” Landon said. “But it feels particularly symbolic and refreshing this year, I think.”