With the weather growing cooler and the leaves taking on their spectacular autumn colors, there is no better time to enjoy the outdoors. Since 1991, Ozark Greenways has provided safe spaces for people in Springfield and surrounding communities to get outside and connect with nature.

Photo via Kromrey

Ozark Greenways

“Ozarks Greenways is a nonprofit organization that works closely with partners across the region to build our community’s trails system to connect and enhance our community,” said Mary Kromrey, Ozark Greenway’s executive director. “We advocate and educate for a connected transportation system that will create safe and efficient way for folks to get to where they want to go regardless of mode – cars, transit, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and trails are all a part of a robust system.”

“Trails and parks make life more fun!” Kromrey exclaimed. “When you enjoy where you live, you start to fall in love with your community.  Whether for recreation or transportation, trails help connect you to the places you want to go, our beautiful outdoors, and most importantly, to each other. They also help create healthier communities and are an excellent return on investment.”

When asked how she would encourage college students to check out Springfield’s trails, Kromrey responded: “Head outside and get ready to have some fun! Whether you’re a hiker, [mountain] biker, cyclist, or use a wheelchair – there is something for everyone.”

Photo via Kromrey

Trail Etiquette and Safety

For a fully enjoyable experience on Greenway trails, there are some basic rules and precautions of which to be mindful.

Greenway trails are open from sunrise to sunset, and are available only for non-motorized use. When on the trail, stick to the right-hand side, and announce your presence if you feel the need to pass someone on their left. If you are in a group, leave space for others on the trail and proceed in single file when approaching others, under bridges and around curves. Greenway trails are open to the public, but land around them might not be; always respect private property and stay on the trail. Not only is this common courtesy, it’s the law.

When out with a canine companion, always make sure they are calm and under control. Leashes are required for all dogs. And of course, even though it may not be the most fun thing to do, always remember to scoop the poop.

Cyclists are to always wear a helmet and are encouraged to choose bright clothing that is reflective if possible. On trails, keep your speed at 10 m.p.h. max. Cyclists on roads have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers of any other vehicle, but should proceed with more caution. Always use hand signals, obey road signs and traffic laws, and keep to designated bike lanes when possible. When in doubt, always yield to drivers. Always ride with traffic, never against it.

Finally, all users of any trail should always remember to hydrate. Bring a water bottle with you, especially if you plan to be out longer than two hours. And, of course, have fun!

Photo via Kromrey

Jordan Creek

One of Springfield’s most popular trails can be found mere blocks from Drury’s campus. Jordan Creek Greenway begins on Jefferson Ave. at Jordan Valley Park. It takes you east through beautiful Jordan Valley Park, which features installments from Sculpture Walk Springfield. From there it winds north, past OTC, until it gets to Silver Springs Park directly east of Drury. From there, it’s a lovely stroll to Smith Park near Evangel’s campus. Jordan Creek Greenway is a beautiful path through a quieter portion of Downtown Springfield into one of Springfield’s most historic parks, Silver Springs, which boasts the cultural landmark Timmons Hall along the developing African American Heritage Trail. The trail is great for walkers and cyclists alike, with the middle portion merging with Springfield’s famous bike route The Link.

Galloway Creek

If you’re looking for a more natural experience, then the Galloway Creek Greenway is the trail for you. The first trail in Missouri to be designated a National Recreation Trail by the National Park Service in 2003, Galloway Creek runs north-south in southeast Springfield. While still in town, the trail provides a scenic route to the more remote James River Greenway & Trail of Honor, so named for its respectful reflection in honor of American veterans and armed servicemembers, and the James River Water Trail, which Greenway Trails calls an ideal spot for canoeing, kayaking, fishing and nature watching.

The trail connects these points to Sequiota Park, one of the most beautiful spots in Springfield. Sequiota Park is a popular resting point for a variety of migrating birds during cooler seasons, and boasts a large historic cave.

If you prefer to stay in town, don’t worry: Galloway Creek guides you past the many charming restaurants and shops of Galloway Village, as well as a number of sculptures and the popular Pet Cemetery.

Springfield Conservation Nature Center

Galloway Creek Greenway also can take you to the ever-popular educational Springfield Conservation Nature Center, a must-see destination for any avid birdwatcher or nature lover. In addition to a beautiful educational building, the Nature Center has multiple trails of varying distance through gorgeous woods right to the banks of the James River.

The Nature Center trails are open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. every day until November 1, when they begin closing at 6:00 p.m. until February. Unlike Greenway Trails, the Nature Center does not allow bikes or dogs.

Sac River Mountain Bike Trails

Is mountain biking more your thing? Fear not, Greenway Trails has you covered. Follow Highway 13 (Kansas Expressway in town) north and watch for the brown sign marking the westbound turn to the Northwest Water Treatment Plant. While there is no physical address for the Sac River Mountain Bike Trails trailhead, Google Maps can get you there.

A 300-acre Springfield-Greene County city park, Sac River has over 14 miles of interconnecting single-track trails accessible to mountain bikers of every skill level from beginner to advanced. The trails run alongside the Sac River and feature everything from forest areas to glades and meadows. In addition, Frisco Bicycle Rental Sales and Service hosts a free 1-2 hour group mountain bike ride for all ages and skill levels every Monday at 6:15 p.m. Rental bikes are available for $10. To reserve a spot, contact mcharrison@friscobicyclerental.com or call (417) 844-2723.

New Projects

Kromrey shared some insights into new projects coming in 2020.

“Be on the lookout for 1.44 miles of trail filling a key gap along the Fulbright Spring Greenway.  Extensions will also be made to the Fassnight Creek Greenway and South Creek Greenway.”

In addition to new extensions, Ozarks Greenways is a new 8-mile trail between Ozark and Springfield, the Chadwick Flyer Trail. The new trail will be funded by public grant dollars and private funds and donations.

Ozarks Greenways is also working with Missouri Off-Road Cyclists and TrailSpring to bring more mountain biking opportunities to the region.

Article written by Forest Swisher.