When you look at Ashland you might see nothing but a miniature concrete jungle, but these cities in Kyova are a different breed. As we know, Ashland is located in the rolling hills nestled on a riverbank, and while the downtown districts are on flat, level land, the residentials exist in these rolling hills, making for jumpy drives and a deeper appreciation for the land.
The Charles and Betty Russell hiking trail in Ashland was forged on the hillside of the aptly-named Ashland Avenue in 2014. Located just a hop and a skip away from Central Park, this hiking trail is perfect for those looking for a short loop and great views of the city.
While its location in downtown Ashland and its proximity to the park are highly convenient for those in the city, it comes with a caveat. Being so close to the roads means that there is no escaping the constant noise pollution, which can be pretty offputting at first. It takes a little bit of getting used to. Typically on a trail you’ll only hear the birds, the wind, and the insects, but hearing the urban soundscape can be an oddly peaceful moment.
This trail loop is just under two miles long and takes an average of 44 minutes to complete. It is a fairly easy trail, but it has some major hills and also an access trail leading to the bottom of the hill into a residential neighborhood. The loop starts at around the 2200 block, takes you almost to 29th street, and then brings you back around to close to 20th street. In a sense, you’re walking nine city blocks twice, plus the elevation.
The trail is well-marked and well-maintained, though at times its cleanliness can be a problem. I have seen trash on it a few times, but I think that’s just a sad reality that we have to face. In an increasingly plastic world, you’re going to find trash here and there and I wish there was a way to escape it but the best we can do is to leave the trail in better condition than we found it. Overhead vines and lavender petals are also abundant on this urban hiking trail.
Some users report muddiness, and I would agree with that sentiment. One time I was walking it and I went to step down a little slope to get a video of a stream, and I completely slipped, driving my camera lens directly into the mud. Needless to say I was not a happy hiker that day. That was before I purchased a dedicated pair of hiking shoes like these. My old beat up athletic shoes just didn’t have the traction that you get from a quality, affordable pair of Merrells.
To complete the loop, you will have to cross Ashland Avenue, so please be careful when you get to this portion of it. Another sad reality is that cars do speed and drivers don’t pay attention sometimes, so of course it’s important to look both ways multiple times before crossing the road!
The Charles and Betty Russell Park Hiking Trail is an underrated trail if I do say so my self. I wouldn’t knock it because of its location right downtown, but instead I would embrace it! I’d love to see more hiking trails pop up in the wooded areas of town, because we’re definitely abundant with them, and we could always use more places to clear the mind.
What do you think of the Charles and Betty Russell Park Hiking Trail?