1. Take a walk on our historic trails
Go for a hike and observe local wildlife on one of Hancock County’s nature trails, like those located in Thornwood Nature Preserve or Henry B. Wilson Park. You can also enjoy an easier walk or jog on the paved Pennsy Trail, which has historical markers along the way for an added educational experience, and will have a new connector trail to Brandywine Park opening this fall.
2. Go biking with your family
If biking is a favorite activity for you or your family, Hancock County is a great place for a cyclist to call home. With options for any skill level of biker, including both paved walkways and rugged mountain bike trails, you’re sure to find a new favorite spot every time to ride.
3. Bike through your community with the Hancock Flat 50
The Hancock Flat 50 is an annual cycling event with a post-ride festival including live music, great food and adult beverages. The inaugural 2016 event had 150 cyclists of all ages and skills levels, tripling to more than 420 participating in 2019. Although the 2020 event was canceled due to COVID-19, the 2021 event is planned to take place on Aug. 28, 2021.
4. Visit a Hancock Wellness Center
Hancock County is known as the sixth healthiest community in the state of Indiana as of 2020. This is likely due in large part to the dedication of the Hancock Health Network and their Wellness Center program, with three locations in Greenfield, McCordsville, and New Palestine. All centers offer strength/cardio equipment, a lap swimming pool, group fitness classes, and more.
5. Get back on track with Hancock Health rehabilitation services
If you’ve experienced a sports injury or medical illness and need help returning to an active lifestyle, the rehab services offered through Hancock Regional Hospital can help. Aquatics and Sports Medicine, Respiratory Therapy, Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy are just a few of the options offered at a variety of locations, including in patients’ homes.
6. Check out one of our amazing parks
With a total of nine city parks in Greenfield (plus the new Depot Street Park set to open this year) and even more throughout Hancock County, you and your family are sure to find fun activities to enjoy together. You can even take your four-legged friends out to enjoy Rover’s Run Bark Park, Greenfield’s first dog park!
7. Swim at Riley Pool and Splash Pad
If you’re looking to cool down after an active summer day, you can go for a dip at Riley Pool and Splash Pad, located in Riley Park. Although circumstances may change due to COVID-19 regulations, the pool is currently set to open on May 26 and stay open through the season until July 31 (and the Splash Pad is set to remain open through Labor Day).
8. Become a nature expert with the Hancock Co Master Gardeners
If you enjoy learning about plants and being active in nature, check out the regular events and classes hosted by the Hancock County Indiana Extension Master Gardeners. This spring, they will be holding outdoor walking field trips in partnership with the Greenfield Parks department, as well as classes on Alternative Plants and Rain Gardens.
9. Join the team with Greenfield Sports Programming
Greenfield Parks & Recreation also hosts sports programming for children aged 2-5, as well as cooperative planning with Youth Sport Leagues including soccer, softball, lacrosse, baseball and football. The Parks Department is also planning to launch an adult sports league in 2021, so be sure to keep an eye on their website for more information.
10. Look for landmarks in historic downtown Greenfield
And finally, it’s easy to have an active lifestyle just by enjoying all that downtown Greenfield has to offer. With our walkable streets, vibrant community and incredible architecture, just a walk to take in the sights can turn into an active adventure all on its own.
[Photo: Native Tree Walk at Beckenholdt Park]