Spring awakens MetroParks Englewood with a raw, persistent energy that dares the bold to walk and paddle its mixed landscapes. The Spring Hike & Paddle experience here strikes a perfect balance between challenge and accessibility—about 5 miles of hiking loops paired with a 3-mile paddle down the Wolf Creek, which pushes you onward with a steady current. Trails trace sharp forest edges, quiet wetlands, and soft riverbanks, rewarding trekkers with fresh green leaves rustling overhead and the scent of damp earth filling the air.

The terrain rolls gently, with a cumulative elevation gain of roughly 400 feet—enough to spur your heart but not exhaust it. You'll cross footbridges that hum beneath your steps, while the creek, lively and restless, invites kayakers to glide just above its small rapids and calm pools. For hikers, the paths vary from packed dirt to muddy sections in low-lying areas, so waterproof footwear is a must.

Timing your adventure midweek in mid-morning or late afternoon helps avoid crowds while capturing the soft light filtering through symphonies of leaf buds. Water is crucial; bring at least two liters per person since natural sources can be slow to filter in these spring months. A daypack with a lightweight rain jacket, sturdy boots, and a hat will serve you well against sudden showers or gusts horse-whipping across open sections.

For paddlers, the creek’s flow is lively but manageable in spring, though always check recent weather reports. Life jackets are not optional—the creek respects no miscalculations. Launch and take-out points are clearly marked, easing your transitions between land and water.

The hike is unhurried with occasional benches positioned for rest and reflection, offering views where treetops open to reveal a sky busy with returning songbirds. Along the water’s edge, turtles bask and fish dart in clear patches, unaware of the human visitors challenging their domain. For those ready to engage nature on its terms, the MetroParks Spring Hike & Paddle invites a sensory but focused adventure—where every step and stroke is an act of alignment with the wild, fiercely itself.