7 trails and greenways in Madison that will inspire you to get outdoors right now

Golden hour in Madison — What better way to enjoy golden hour than taking an early evening stroll? (Emily Phillips / Hville Blast)

Punxsutawney Phil may have predicted six more weeks of winter this morning, but that doesn’t change the fact that the days are finally getting longer—warmer weather and more sunlight is on its way.

One of the things I miss the most during wintertime is the opportunity to get out onto a sidewalk or a trail and take a walk after work. Here, I’ve rounded up a guide to some of the best spots in Madison to walk, run or bike.

1. Mill Creek Greenway

Sunset — My camera roll is full of Madison sunsets, always taken on evening walks. (Emily Phillips / Hville Blast)

This 1-mile path runs parallel to Balch Road in Madison. Find an access point on either Mill Road or Browns Ferry Road. There’s even a dog park!

Access points: North parking lot on the corner of Browns Ferry and Balch | Access between Millstone Subdivision and Mill Creek Elementary

2. Rainbow Mountain Preserve

The Rainbow Mountain Preserve is managed by the Land Trust of North Alabama. (Land Trust of North Alabama on Facebook)

Situated right in the heart of Madison, the Rainbow Mountain features four different short trails:

JaMooKo Loop Trail: 0.9 miles
Loop Trail: 1.5 miles
Spring Trail: 0.2 miles
Wild Trail: 0.4 miles

Access point: 230 Stoneway Trail, Madison, AL 35758

3. Indian Creek Greenway

If you commute back and forth from Research Park, you’ve probably passed the Indian Creek Greenway several times—maybe without even realizing it.

Access points: Old Madison Pike | 335 Harvestwood Ct, Madison, AL 35758 (inside Creekwood Subdivision)

4. Bradford Creek Greenway

This spot has everything: a creek, wetlands, hardwood forests and lots of plant and animal life.

Access point: Bradford Creek Trailhead, 548, 556 Palmer Rd, Madison, AL 35758

5. Beaverdam Swamp Boardwalk

The Beaverdam Swamp Boardwalk is located just south of I-565 and Highway 20. You’ll have to cross into Limestone County to get there, but the views are completely worth the extra few minutes of driving.

Access point: Old Hwy 20, Madison, AL 35756

6. Dublin Park

Dublin Park off Old Madison Pike is a perfect spot for all manner of recreation. With walking paths, tennis courts, soccer fields and even a community pool, you’re sure to find an activity you enjoy. The half-mile paved loop is accessible for multiple levels of fitness, from beginners to elite athletes.

Access point: 8324 Old Madison Pike, Madison, AL 35758

7. Research Park Pathways

Though Cummings Research Park is *technically* located in Huntsville, the western edge borders Madison. The entire area is largely flat and has paved sidewalks where you can walk, run and bike.

Trails include: