DEAR SPRINGFIELD MAMA

South Creek Greenway Trail: I’m a Springfield native. But until this week, I had never heard of this pretty, protected trail right in the middle of town, where yellow leaves floated down through the tree canopy and butterflies danced over the creek bed. It’s walking, biking and stroller-friendly, and is an ideal spot for a quick before- or after-work jaunt with the kids.

I highly recommend this as a morning stroller walk — especially if you build in time to grab coffee from one of the several nearby coffeeshops. Less than a mile south of the trail, there’s a 7 Brew, Starbucks and Architect on Battlefield.

It can also be a destination for a longer weekend biking excursion, especially if you have older kids or a bike seat/trailer for little ones. The trail links to Nathanael Greene Park/Close Memorial Park, which makes the perfect stop for a picnic lunch or playground time. (Just don’t be like me and drag your 4-year-old here on his pedal bike. The poor little dude’s whining on the way back was nearly unbearable. Oh, how I miss the stroller days!)

There are a couple of pretty bridge crossings along the creek, with long shaded stretches as well as sunny, open ones — so come prepared with a hat or sunscreen. For the first two miles, at least, the terrain is mostly flat, with only a few very minor hills.

This is not a loop, so be prepared to walk back as far as you came! Ask me how I know.

Location

Location: Park at McDaniel Park, then head west on the South Creek Greenway Trail. Google Maps link.  

What to bring

• Sunscreen

Photos of South Creek Greenway Trail