Walking through a winter wood

By Amanda Rogers

arogers@mansfieldnewsmirror.com

The city's focus is on fitness, but most of the participants in the annual Winter Walk event just seem to like to get outside, stretch their legs and see friends and neighbors.

"We are promoting physical activity and a healthy lifestyle, especially during the winter when people don't get out as much," said Andrew Binz, recreation superintendent.

The seventh annual Winter Walk will step out at 10 a.m. Saturday at Katherine Rose Memorial Park, meander down the linear trail to McKnight Park East, loop around that park, then retrace its steps on the trail through Rose Park before winding up at Town Park. The entire walk is about three miles, but walkers can do as much or as little as they want. Last year, the walk ended at U.S. 287 due to construction on the highway, but that has been cleared this year.

"There's a water station right after the red bluff area where you can turn back," Binz said. "That route is approximately 1.5 miles. The second water station is at McKnight Park. Or you can go from Rose Park to Town Park, which is approximately one mile."

And you don't even have to walk if you don't want. Bicyclers, roller bladers, non-motorized scooters and skateboarders are welcome, as are strollers and dogs on leashes. People can walk or run. The walk isn't timed, it's just for fun, Binz said.

But people will want to get to Town Park before noon for the health fair. Cook Children's Medical Center, Mansfield ISD Student Nutrition, Expedian Care and Mansfield Girls Softball Association will set up booths, and bottled water and healthy snacks will be provided. Choirs from Roberta Tipps, Imogene Gideon and Tarver-Rendon elementary schools will also perform.

Participation usually depends on the weather, Binz said, with 400 on a pretty day and a hardy 50 to 100 walkers on a not-so-lovely morning.

"This event has grown, we get more calls about it every year," he said. "It breaks the monotony of the winter.

"I hope people bring their families out," Binz said. "If they haven't experienced the Walnut Creek Linear Trail, it's a great opportunity to do that."

And the linear trail makes for a nice walk, pointed out Harold Bell, president of the Mansfield Park Facilities Development Corp. board.

"I just love the linear park," said Bell, who participates in the Winter Walk as often as possible. "It's good exercise and an opportunity for everyone to look at the park system. I think they can enjoy nature at it's best."

Amanda Rogers, (817) 473-4451

Looking for comments?