Gilmore Metropark

"Great place for a walk or a off road jog. Hit the lot and go left before you know it, you would think you are in a swamp or some other wetland. A ways in its thick brush drowns out the noise of the city life. Hit the bird observations tower it's a secluded spot that nice to hang out by yourself about 15-20 feet in the air. Just chill and watch the wildlife. Seems like a popular spot for bird watchers. The parking lot is small and it's normally has a few cars there."

"This trail is beautiful! I love walking here, and I see something new every time. So glad to have a space like this."

"★ Popularity: Locally known. ★ Size/Location: Large. ★ Business Type: Park/Trails. ★ Business Hour: Dawn to dusk. ★ Activities: Outdoor activities. ★ Reservation: None. ★ Parking: Small. ★ Accessibility: None. ★ Facilities: Restroom. ★ Staff: None seen. ★ Pet-friendliness: Pets are allowed. ★ Kid-friendliness: Kids are welcome. ★ Expense: Free. Gilmore Metropark is a hidden gem that offers ample opportunities for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Despite its small parking lot, this park boasts an impressive collection of bird species that can be observed in their natural habitat. During my visit, I had the park all to myself and was able to enjoy the peace and tranquility that it offered. However, I would advise visitors to consider their footwear choices before heading out as some parts of the dirt path can get flooded after a rain or snowfall. Overall, if you're looking for a serene and peaceful place to escape from the city life, this is the place for you!"

"I came here for the aesthetics of trees in the swamp and it didn’t disappoint. I also like that It’s a dog friendly park. There’s pet waste bags and trashcans nearby each other so you don’t have to scout for them. There are lots of critters so bring binoculars. There’s 6-12 parking spots here, including 1 handicap spot. I suggest going off peak hours to avoid cars wiggling in and out. The lot size is a bit tight. Also, wear waterproof boots. The bridge to cross the swamp is narrow and bouncy. The water splashes through the little holes under the bridge. There are a few spots here and there that are muddy. Seating is limited but the loop trail is easy. I wouldn’t mind coming back mid Spring when there is more color and construction is done."

"Fantastic home park to have but not necessarily something to travel for. Let’s see how many of the more special animals I’ve seen there I can remember… Herons, egrets, indigo buntings, hummingbirds, turtles, wood ducks, Carolina mantis, mink, bald eagles, crayfish on the path in the rain. Then there are plenty of common animals like deer, mallards, frogs, red winged blackbirds, bunnies. You’d be lucky to see a rare animal but if you go as often as I do this park will keep surprising you! Make sure to wear hiking boots for this trail"