Trails

Bicycle Trails

The Springfield Park District manages an extensive trail system that connects Springfield to several surrounding communities. The trails are open to walkers, runners, bicyclists, roller-bladers, strollers, wheelchairs, and cross-country skiers. The trails are open the entire year, from sunrise to sunset. Please avoid excessive deviation from the trail so that the vegetation lining may be enjoyed for as long as possible.

NOTE: Trails are for non-motorized use only. NO automobiles, ATVs, motorcycles, or other motorized vehicles are allowed. Additionally, no horses are allowed on the trail.

Bicyclists and in-line skaters should always wear a helmet. 3 out of 4 bicyclist fatalities are due to head injuries – most could have been avoided if the bicyclist had been wearing a helmet. 

Limit two people side by side at a time and keep tight to the right. Keep to the trail edge when stopping and utilize the buddy system.

Bicyclists should yield to pedestrians and travel at a safe speed.

To avoid conflict with other users, pass to the left, announcing “On your left” before you overtake slower moving traffic.

Please avoid stopping and blocking the path. Step off to the side if you wish to talk or stop for any other reason.

Leash all pets. “Curb” your dogs. Always clean up after your dog and don't litter.

Carry a charged cell phone and be aware of your surroundings when out on the trails.  Use only one earbud to keep aware of your surroundings.

Tell friends or family where you are going.  Emergency: 911 | Use trail markers to identify your location.

Nature Trails

Springfield Park District offers nature lovers and hikers the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors through nature, hiking, and equestrian type trails. Trails are located at both Carpenter and Riverside parks and can be enjoyed from dawn to dusk.

Carpenter Park is used largely for hiking and nature observation. It is located just north of the banks of the Sangamon River. Trail maps are available at the park.

Riverside Park is located south of the Sangamon River and provides both a nature/equestrian adventure and open green space for more activities. As a special note, Riverside park does flood during the Spring of each year periodically due to the rise of water from the Sangamon River. The park will be closed for safety reasons during flood season.

Who can use the Nature Trails?

Trail users welcome on the path include walkers, runners, strollers, and wheelchairs. The trail is open the entire year, from sunrise to dusk. Please avoid excessive deviation from the trail so that the vegetation lining may be enjoyed for as long as possible.

NOTE: Trails are for non-motorized use only. NO automobiles, ATVs, motorcycles, or other motorized vehicles are allowed. Additionally, no horses are allowed on the trail.

Limit two people side by side at a time and keep tight to the right. Keep to the trail edge when stopping and use the buddy system.

• Poison ivy and poison oak are common along the trail. Avoid contact with plants unless you are certain of the species.

Avoid stopping and blocking the path. Step off to the side if you wish to talk or stop for any other reason.

Leash all pets. “Curb” your dogs. Always clean up after your dog and don't litter.

Carry a charged cell phone and be aware of your surroundings when out on the trails.  Use only one earbud to keep aware of your surroundings.

Tell friends or family where you are going.  Emergency: 911 | Use trail markers to identify your location.