Wesley Harris
Huckleberry Trails Park, which is 23 acres of dense pine and hardwood forest, is tucked away in a quiet area of Ruston and provides a tranquil haven for both locals and tourists.
It’s a little off the usual route, situated at 2304 Magnolia Drive, adjacent to Cypress Springs Elementary School. Unless you’re looking for it, you probably won’t see it. It is open every day from sunrise to sunset, just as all other parks maintained by the city of Ruston.
Just to feel the change in temperature beneath the tall pine, oak, red maple, and sweet gum trees, I went to the park in 90 degree heat. According to scientists, a forest’s temperature can be 20 to 25 degrees lower than that of a nearby sunny place. It was comfortable to go along the route and sit on one of the seats in spite of the heat.
The contemporary playground structure on a secure, rubber-like surface may offer hours of entertainment to children with a little inventiveness. Families on a trip can keep an eye on everyone because the playground is close to the bathroom facility and two covered pavilions.
It’s easy to navigate the trail. Wide and largely flat, its 0.7-mile loop and many spurs are ideal for strollers, bikers, running, or leisurely walks. There are identifying marks at ground level to identify some of the vegetation.
Leashed dogs are allowed on the route, but their owners are expected to clean up after them. Songbirds, squirrels, and other tiny creatures are easily spotted in the peaceful, forested environment.
I was advised that the trail had poison ivy, but as it is wide and primarily graveled, the vine won’t bother you as long as you avoid it. In the woods, poison ivy is to be expected, but I did see some of it.
Huckleberry Trail was not chosen at random. There were plenty of huckleberry bushes in sight. In our younger years, my brothers and I most likely ate a million of the luscious purple berries. We frequently become tired of picking before we have our fill because it takes a lot of the tiny fruit to satisfy a growing boy. No berries this time of year, unfortunately.
The picnic tables in the pavilions are big enough for family get-togethers, birthday celebrations, and even informal business gatherings.
To honor the former Ruston City Councilwoman who led the park’s establishment, the park was renamed Huckleberry Trails Marie Riggs Park in March.
Huckleberry Trails Park can be the ideal spot for you if you’re looking for a peaceful outdoor setting for a walk with your dog or just a green break.
