Top Walking Trails Rated by Distance and Difficulty

Evansville Parks and Recreation released updated ratings this week for five local walking trails, sorting them by distance and difficulty levels based on elevation changes and surface conditions.

The ratings come as summer temperatures climb and more residents seek outdoor options to maintain daily movement routines. City data shows trail use at city parks rose 22 percent from May through June compared with the same period last year, reflecting the steady growth of the local wellness scene centered on accessible green space rather than gym memberships.

Two sites stand out in the new list. Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve on the city's east side offers a 1.8-mile moderate loop through old-growth forest with some root-covered sections and a short boardwalk over wet areas. The Pigeon Creek Greenway Trail, which runs parallel to the creek from the downtown riverfront to the Howell neighborhood, provides a 3.4-mile paved out-and-back rated easy to moderate because of its flat grade and multiple access points at Locust Street and Kentucky Avenue.

Trail ratings and surface details

The department measured each route with GPS in late June and assigned difficulty using standard trail guidelines that factor in length, slope and footing. The shortest entry is the 0.9-mile paved loop inside Garvin Park near the Lincoln Avenue entrance, listed as easy and suitable for beginners. At the other end, a 5.2-mile segment of the Ohio River Greenway starting at Dress Plaza and heading west toward the West Side is rated moderate due to occasional wind exposure and the need to cross two street intersections.

Maintenance crews completed resurfacing on the Greenway's eastern half in April, adding new mile markers every quarter mile. Entry remains free at all listed locations, though the city charges $2 for parking at Wesselman Woods during peak weekend hours.

Planning a visit

Residents planning outings can check the Parks Department website for real-time trail conditions or join one of the free guided walks offered each Saturday morning at 8 a.m. through August. Those new to the routes are advised to start on the Garvin Park loop and carry water, especially when afternoon highs exceed 85 degrees. Local primary-care offices continue to recommend checking with a physician before beginning any new exercise program.