Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest visitors now have a new bird’s eye view of nature and the 16,000-acre+ Bernheim Forest from the Spirit Nest, a 25-ft. tall nest sculpture located near the Pines Picnic Area in Zone 2 of the Bernheim Playcosystem, a 10-acre natural playground and interactive art experience.

The newly installed Spirit Nest was created specifically for Bernheim by renowned nature sculptor Jayson Fann. The structure is a one-of-a-kind human-sized nest constructed from eucalyptus wood harvested from the coast of California, as well as wood collected from naturally fallen trees from Bernheim Forest and driftwood from the Falls of the Ohio. Tree stumps surrounding the nest structure create natural seating and provide a perfect setting for music, art, and educational and cultural programs.

According to creator Fann, the Spirit Nest is a unique place to “bring people together in the spirit of community,” a place for storytelling, teaching and sharing multi-cultural experiences.
The Spirit Nest is designed and constructed for interactive play, climbing and exploring, and especially for creativity and imagination.

The nest joins a trio of whimsical Forest Giants, also constructed from repurposed wood from the Bernheim Forest and local areas, created by artist Thomas Dambo. The family of giants were introduced to Bernheim in 2019 as part of the new Playcosystem and have attracted many visitors to the arboretum, both locally and as a destination.

Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest near Shepherdsville is home to a nationally acclaimed 600-acre arboretum with over 8,000 varieties of documented trees, shrubs and herbaceous perennials. Within the forest are over 40 miles of hiking trails, a fishing lake and several ponds, a canopy tree walk 75 ft. above the forest floor, sculptures and art displays. A historic 90-year-old fire tower provides one of the best views in the state. Over 250,000 visitors from the U.S. and abroad now visit Bernheim each year.

Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest is a perfect nature getaway, located near the popular Bullitt County wineries and the Bourbon Trail, just off Interstate 65 in Clermont, KY, south of Louisville. For overnight visitors, there are plenty convenient hotels and places to stay in Bullitt County and nearby Shepherdsville.

Now is the perfect time for relaxing and exploring Kentucky’s great outdoors…come join us in Bullitt County!