John Hunt Cross Country Running Park — Local services in Huntsville

When we began walking at John Hunt Park a few years ago it promised to be the best place in town to walk in terms of convenience and amenities. The rubberized asphalt walking track is much kinder to feet with many miles on them than are the regular roads. The landscape is lovely, giving clear evidence of having been designed. In theory, one does not have to contend with pets or fast moving bicycles as is the case on the greenways. And, there is a bathroom with running water, climate control, and even soap.

On the other hand, a few people have not got the memo that pet dogs are not allowed at John Hunt Park. Watch your step, but on summer mornings watch the horizon as well. Walking in the early morning hours during warm season grass growing time puts one at risk of being present when the grounds maintenance people are spraying. Finally, be aware that occasionally enthusiastic bicyclists are riding on the aforementioned asphalt walking path. The path simply isn't wide enough for fast moving bicycles and people walking, some of the latter of whom are...

The mountain bike course is not well-maintained, which is too bad, because it was originally well-built and a cool concept. They City of Huntsville needs to make sure that this course maintenance gets included in their budgeting - you can't just build it and then let it rot.

...and the part of it that's up against the big hill smells like a landfill, because that's what's...

The trail is ever so lovely. I used to do spring fever and autumn chase runs here in elementary school. It would be nice however if people would not bring there dogs as rules sign says. The trail had dog poop on it this morning. And the lady walking her dog could cared less. Why can't we have...