While Montgomery may not be known for its parks and trails, that doesn’t mean we’re going without them. It may take a little effort (with a dash of asking someone how to get there), but with the right motivation it’s not too hard to find an outdoor place to lace up your sneakers and get moving.
As we all adjust to the new normal in the time of COVID-19, we can take the opportunity to get creative with ways we’re getting outside and soaking up a little sun. I’ve been marauding ways to take advantage of what the city has to offer while continuing to discover new, social distancing-friendly gems that are hiding in plain view.
Lagoon Park is located off Eastern Boulevard, a little North of Atlanta Highway. When asked on Marauder’s Instagram whether people had ever visited the park, a (perhaps unsurprising) 67% of respondents said “No.” Which, of course, is a shame. The lovely park is designed for walking, running, or even biking with 5 miles of trails to enjoy over 432 acres. And it’s right here in town. In addition to the trails, there’s also softball, golf, and tennis courts for the public to enjoy.
With an easy, low-grade path, it’s accessible for most anyone to take advantage of. We saw both young children and elderly individuals enjoying the paths. It’s also friendly to leashed dogs; my 10-month-old pup, Jed, certainly enjoyed it. I’m embarrassed it took me this long to check it out, but I’m so glad I finally did.
This is easily a place I’ll return to for a run, or recommend as a group activity with a visiting family member. It’s free, do-able for just about anyone, and hiking just makes your soul feel good.
If you fall in love with the park, like I did, there’s also opportunities to volunteer to help maintain it. I went after a massive thunderstorm and faced a variety of fallen branches strewn across and otherwise well-maintained path. If we care to preserve this space, it’s an easy way to dedicate our time to an important cause. To find out more, visit their website here.
And if you really wanna have the full driving experience, they have an annual 5k in February.
Here’s how to get to the trail heads where I started:
– From I-85, head towards Atlanta Highway on Eastern Boulevard
– Pass Atlanta Highway
– Turn left onto Lagoon Park Drive (you’ll see a gas station on your left)
– Drive past the softball fields, past the golf course, and look for the trail signs
– Turn right soon after the golf course, and you’ll see the entrance to the park on your right
Remember to grab your pup, bring a friend, wear sunscreen, and drink water.
Happy hiking!
| Liz Kurtz lives in the Cloverdale-Idylwild neighborhood of Montgomery, Alabama. She has been living here on and off since 2013 and currently works at El Rey and Leroy in Cloverdale. You can email her at liz@montgomerymarauder.com. |