This weekend: Forest hiking and keeping Louisville Gonzo

- This Saturday, October 15, is the 7th annual Mayor’s Healthy Hometown Hike at Jefferson Memorial Forest from 10am-2pm. There will be plenty of fun for people of all ages – including a children’s exploration area, Alpine Tower climbs, pumpkin decorating for the kids, hayrides, and canoe and kayaking demonstrations. There will also be a wide array of informational booths from local nature and hiking organizations promoting health, eating right, and living green.

The volunteer trail team and Forest staff will lead hikes at various skill levels and introduce visitors to the native plants and wildlife in the forest. The event is free to the public and the first 500 participants will receive a T-shirt. Mayor Greg Fischer will kick off the event before the hiking and festivities begin.  The hike will be located in the Horine Reservation section of Jefferson Memorial Forest (12304 Holsclaw Hill Road).

The Fall 2011 version of the Jefferson Memorial Forest newsletter is now online. Click here to view it and read about American Chestnut Plantings, the Clifton Heights Greenway update, available public programs, and much more. *Thanks to Vicki Welch's Office

- Also on Saturday is the 2nd Annual Gonzo Fest at the Monkey Wrench. Gonzo Fest is an annual tribute to the works and life of native Louisvillian and world-famous writer Dr. Hunter S. Thompson.

Come on out for a day of art, spoken word, and music. $20 in advance, $25 day of event, $15 with a discount card available at the Monkey Wrench. 21 and over. The Monkey Wrench is located at 1025 Barret Avenue.

Check out the event's Facebook page for more info.