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Last Modified: 7/1/2009
Tom Dorman SNP
Dedicated on December 20, 1996, Tom Dorman State Nature Preserve protects 818 acres with spectacular, 220-foot palisades along the Kentucky River in Garrard and Jessamine counties. This preserve was previously owned by the Kentucky River Authority (KRA), and was known as the Kentucky River Authority Palisades State Nature Preserve. The preserve’s name was changed to honor the former director and chairman of the KRA. Because of Tom Dorman’s vision and strong support, this state nature preserve was created. The Nature Conservancy assisted with the acquisition of some of the acreage that is now protected. The Tom Dorman State Nature Preserve is one of the largest protected natural areas in the Kentucky River Palisades region. Several rare plants are located on the limestone cliffs including starry cleft phlox (Phlox bifida var. stellaria) and Eggleston's violet (Viola septemloba var. egglestonii).
The Garrard County part of the preserve is open to the public, sunrise to sunset year-round. Due to fragile habitats and its inaccessibility, the Jessamine County tract is closed to the public.
- Features - 220-foot limestone palisade walls, rare plants, Kentucky River.
- Access - Foot trail through the forest and to the river, two-mile loop; moderately difficult, with hills and steps.
- Facilities - None
- Parking - 8 cars
- Hazards - Extremely high cliffs.
- Activities - Hiking, nature study, birding, etc.
- Directions - From Nicholasville, follow Rt. 27 south for approximately nine miles. After crossing the Kentucky River into Garrard County, continue for an additional 1 1/4 miles. Turn right on Rt. 1845 and follow for one mile. Take the next right. Follow this road (straight, do not bear left) for approximately 3/4 mile. Park in the gravel parking lot at the end of this road.
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Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission - Zeb Weese
801 Schenkel Lane
Frankfort, KY 40601
Phone: 502-573-2886
Fax: 502-573-2355
E-mail: zeb.weese@ky.gov
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