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Mill Race Path

Hiking trails & Routes

Mill Race Path

Easy

4.8

(8825)

15,929

hikers

Mill Race Path

Q: What is the terrain like on the Mill Race Path?

The Mill Race Path is primarily a 10-foot-wide asphalt path with 2-foot-wide shoulders, making for a smooth and easy walk. It is generally flat, suitable for hikers, runners, cyclists, and even strollers.

Q: Where can I park to access the Mill Race Path?

You can find parking at trailheads such as Booth Kelly and Jasper Road. These locations also offer amenities like restrooms and information kiosks.

Q: Is the Mill Race Path suitable for families and children?

Yes, the path is very family-friendly. Its paved, generally flat surface makes it accessible for strollers and suitable for children of all ages, offering an easy outdoor experience.

Q: What kind of wildlife can I expect to see along the route?

The Mill Race Path is known for its bird-watching opportunities, especially around the ponds and restored habitat. You might spot birds like red-winged blackbirds, mergansers, cedar waxwings, buffleheads, and various ducks. You may also see horses in distant pastures.

Q: Are dogs allowed on the Mill Race Path?

While the trail is multi-use and accessible, specific dog regulations are not detailed in the available information. It is generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them. Please check local signage for any specific rules.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit the Mill Race Path?

The Mill Race Path is beautiful year-round. You'll find subtle but varied colors in the winter and vibrant life in the spring and summer, making it an enjoyable destination in any season.

Q: Are there any fees or permits required to use the Mill Race Path?

Based on the available information, there are no specific fees or permits mentioned for accessing or using the Mill Race Path.

Q: Does the Mill Race Path connect to other trails?

Yes, the path connects downtown Springfield to the longer Middle Fork Path. You can also extend your journey to reach Dorris Ranch in the west or Clearwater Park in the east, offering options for longer excursions and loop routes.

Q: What historical significance does the Mill Race Path have?

The Mill Race canal, which the path follows, was hand-dug in 1852 by Springfield's founder, Elias Briggs. It was originally created to provide water and power to local mills and has been a valuable resource for over 150 years, now restored as a wildlife habitat and recreational asset.

Q: Are there restrooms and water available on the trail?

Yes, trailheads such as Booth Kelly and Jasper Road offer amenities including restrooms and water fountains for visitors.

01:29

5.85km

20m

Hiking

Embark on an easy hike along the Mill Race Path, a paved multi-use trail that stretches for 3.6 miles (5.8 km). You will experience a gentle ascent of only 65 feet (20 metres), making this route suitable for a relaxed outing that takes about 1 hour and 29 minutes to…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

3.09 km

Jasper Pond

Lake

4.07 km

Viewpoint

5.85 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

5.37 km

244 m

132 m

109 m

Surfaces

5.19 km

439 m

167 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Thursday 7 May

23°C

10°C

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the terrain like on the Mill Race Path?

The Mill Race Path is primarily a 10-foot-wide asphalt path with 2-foot-wide shoulders, making for a smooth and easy walk. It is generally flat, suitable for hikers, runners, cyclists, and even strollers.

Where can I park to access the Mill Race Path?

You can find parking at trailheads such as Booth Kelly and Jasper Road. These locations also offer amenities like restrooms and information kiosks.

Is the Mill Race Path suitable for families and children?

Yes, the path is very family-friendly. Its paved, generally flat surface makes it accessible for strollers and suitable for children of all ages, offering an easy outdoor experience.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see along the route?

The Mill Race Path is known for its bird-watching opportunities, especially around the ponds and restored habitat. You might spot birds like red-winged blackbirds, mergansers, cedar waxwings, buffleheads, and various ducks. You may also see horses in distant pastures.

Are dogs allowed on the Mill Race Path?

While the trail is multi-use and accessible, specific dog regulations are not detailed in the available information. It is generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them. Please check local signage for any specific rules.

What is the best time of year to visit the Mill Race Path?

The Mill Race Path is beautiful year-round. You'll find subtle but varied colors in the winter and vibrant life in the spring and summer, making it an enjoyable destination in any season.

Are there any fees or permits required to use the Mill Race Path?

Based on the available information, there are no specific fees or permits mentioned for accessing or using the Mill Race Path.

Does the Mill Race Path connect to other trails?

Yes, the path connects downtown Springfield to the longer Middle Fork Path. You can also extend your journey to reach Dorris Ranch in the west or Clearwater Park in the east, offering options for longer excursions and loop routes.

What historical significance does the Mill Race Path have?

The Mill Race canal, which the path follows, was hand-dug in 1852 by Springfield's founder, Elias Briggs. It was originally created to provide water and power to local mills and has been a valuable resource for over 150 years, now restored as a wildlife habitat and recreational asset.

Are there restrooms and water available on the trail?

Yes, trailheads such as Booth Kelly and Jasper Road offer amenities including restrooms and water fountains for visitors.

What unique features can I find along the Mill Race Path?

Beyond the historic canal, a notable feature is a large stormwater treatment pond near the Booth-Kelly Trailhead. This pond uses smart engineering and native plants to clean stormwater runoff, showcasing an interesting blend of nature and infrastructure.