Dry Run Creek Parkland (Mitchell, SD)

2013.06.29 (75 Degrees at 15:45) - After seeing the Magnificent Corn Palace and missing out on the McGovern Library due to school closing, we needed to stretch our legs. Dry Run Creek Parkland was just the right venue. We parked at a cul de sac on S. Kimball Street just north of where it intersects with E. Douglas Avenue.

Going easy from the parking lot, there is a playground for the kiddos and an area marked off for an expansion project. We hope it will be something good. Oh boy, can't wait to see, maybe the next time I come by.

We make it to the Eastern Terminus of this small trail and see two maps, one for the trail and the other for an 18-net frisbee golf course. What really stood out however, is at the skate park section, on the benches is a number kids can call, 'R-U-OK? #1-800-273-TALK (8255).' It is a smart way of reaching out to our youth without the awkwardness of asking.

It is very green that we wondered about irrigation. It has been a mild summer and that maybe the reason for this healthy emerald shade or maybe the heat hasn't set in yet. What isn't a mystery is the creek's path because the taller vegetation lines it. On the other side, we noticed newly planted trees. The class of 2013. So many planted, and we hope they all flourish. 

At Sanborn Boulevard, the trail goes underneath the bridge with access to to the railroad tracks. From our lesson at the Corn Palace, we learned the railroad was a main reason for the early success of Mitchell with the Corn Belt Exposition. It is amazing what a town can do when inspired and how after so long, it stands strong and proud.

On the other end, at Minnesota Street, there is a ballpark. Two activities for youngsters connected by a trail. Brilliant! Skate at one end and ride your bike to play ball. Remember, if not OK, there is a number to call. 

Focusing on our walk, we passed right by a cache on the western end. Doubling back, we found it and also another cache earlier making it two for this trail. It is always good to walk toward a smiley, like the carrot. It surprisingly shortens the trek.

In the hour walk, the temperature rose only 4 degrees on this beautiful day. Can't ask for better weather or better company. Our adventure through the Dakotas has started and looks bright.

We walked 2.36 miles in 1 hour : 00 minutes averaging 25 minutes : 32 seconds per mile. Our fastest mile was the second at 23 minutes : 43 seconds. I took 7,289 steps.

Total Blogged miles : 90.31 miles.