This is a decent little trail tucked away in Tom Sawyer Park, just off Hurstbourne Parkway, across from Hounz Ln., Park.
I've hiked the trail twice now. It's in the middle of the city, yet it's a truly wooded nature trail: abundant roots, packed down dirt, flowing creek, tall trees and geese flying over fairly regularly. (it is, after all, called "Goose Creek Trail")
The paths are well-maintained, but not marked incredibly well. It looks like a Boy Scout Eagle project was to create benches and do some trail maintenance to avoid erosion. The trail is also sprinkled with nicely carved signs... But not at all of the turns. Perhaps some of the off-beaten-paths were not intentionally created by the Park, and thus, they are unofficial and unmarked. It's easy to get turned around on this short trail, but if you don't mind an extra walk, you'll eventually come upon a crossroads that you recognize.
At some points, the path could lead you to the nearby airfield, where you'll see signs to watch out for aircraft! (Toy/radio Aircraft). You could also end up at the nearby Community Center just on the outskirts of Tom Sawyer. Or you could end up near the 1 mile fitness path on the main side of the Park near the tennis courts and playgrounds. Or.. if you're a part of the lucky few who truly do decide to venture off-the-beaten-path, you could end up crossing over into the property that is Central State Mental Hospital. If this happens, don't be alarmed, there is a small yellow sign letting you know that you are on the edge of the park property. There is, however, no sign letting you know that you're at Central State. How did I know? Well, handy Google maps showed me as a blue dot on in their territory.
Takeaways:
1) This is a great park if you're looking for serene, relaxing nature and actual trails made of dirt.
2) Not a trail for hiking/walking while you play on your phone -- it is all too easy to trip over a root.
3) Pay attention to the trees, the signs, the intersections, etc. as you walk. You will need to know what is what if you plan to make it back to your car.
4) It feels safe here -- even if you are turned around in the woods with the slowly setting sun.
Pro tip - if you hike near dusk-- don't be a dummy -- take a flashlight. read more