Provin Loop Hike

Given its close proximity to the city, Provin Trails Park provides the perfect, quick escape with dense deciduous and coniferous woods and a network of winding, sandy trails. It's an especially great area for a group excursion or to explore with kids as the 40-plus acres seem like just enough to accommodate a variety of loops without having to commit to lots of mileage or a long day out.

A highlight of this park is the dune-like hill in the middle, which is worth exploring.

Open to pedestrians and cross country skiing. Bugs can be common in warmer, wetter months; long sleeves or spray can be helpful.

From the parking area off 4 Mile Rd NE, head south into the woods. As the trails at Provin Park can be traveled in either direction, this loop run can be done in reverse or adapted to accommodate groups of varying ability or other time constraints.

At the first intersection, turn right (west) to loop around the western boundary of the park along a minor descent. Stay right at all intersections to keep to this perimeter route, or mix it up and take one of the interior connector trails and then duck back out to the Perimeter Loop - Yellow. When in doubt, take a look at the Trail Run Project mobile app or pick a trail and you'll arrive at the Perimeter Loop - Yellow before too long, which is never more than 0.5 miles from the trailhead.

Though this loop is relatively short for most runners, the hilly topography and option to extend the mileage can still add up to a good workout.