At this point in the semester, your life can get very stressful with the school work, meetings, and exams that are likely all piling up. It’s hard to make time to relax. It’s important to take a study break and get some fresh air. One way to get a relaxing workout in is by going to the Nature Park. It is just one of the many great things that DePauw has to offer. What better way to enjoy the outdoors than by going to the beautiful nature park that happens to conveniently be right next to campus?
The Nature Park consists of over ten miles of different trails, and the easiest way to get there from DePauw’s campus is by starting at the Connector Trail. The Connector Trail starts at the end of Hanna Street, near DePauw’s athletic fields. Follow Hanna Street all the way past the Blackstock Tennis Courts and there’s an entrance into the park. This connector trail will take you to the official entrance of the nature park.
Any geology buffs out there? You’ll love the Quarry Trail! There are multiple trails to choose from, including the Quarry Trail that goes by the bottom of the Quarry pond, which was a limestone quarry that had limestone rock that began forming millions of years ago. It’s a pretty cool sight for just a walk in the park! Another place to get a cool view of the quarry is the Rim Trail! If you follow the trail past the quarry, it will lead you up to the Rim Trail. The Rim Trail goes around the entire rim of the quarry. It’s a really great view if you can handle the hill to get up there! Just make sure to be careful near the edge!
Have you had a stressful day? Going for a run or walk in the park is my favorite way to release stress and tension. It’s a great way to take a mental break and to appreciate the beautiful nature around us. Another great aspect of the Nature Park is that it has trails that lead to The Prindle Institute for Ethics and the Burnett Reflection Center. Both of these places are great for reflecting on the pressing ethical issues that you might face in today’s society or your daily life. They are also awesome study spaces if you need a break from study spots on campus!
I know it can be hard to get yourself to go outside, but the Nature Park is so conveniently located that you should absolutely take advantage of it! Especially since the leaves are changing, what better way to celebrate the beginning of fall than a trip to the Nature Park? The other trails, along with a map of the park, can be found on DePauw’s website. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could just follow a trail and see where it takes you, but be careful to not get lost like I did! So, grab your running shoes and some friends and head out to the park for a much needed study break!
This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at DePauw chapter.