Trail Review: Richland Creek Greenway

Of course, we here at Bespoke Bikeways always are grateful for any bike trail that takes us somewhere safely without having to deal with cars, but if I were to say anything about this trail, “Richland” must mean the area is rich in garbage.

Following Richland Creek from Centennial Park all the way over to Southside Park, this is the trail that offers the best access to the west side of downtown Belleville. As such, it is the trail most frequented by the homeless population and it puts the trashier side of Belleville on full display.

At 3.8 miles, its more of a connector to business and neighborhoods, not especially a trail to grind for fitness. It also offers a connection to the greater MetroBikeLink system.

Scenery: 2/5

With the majority of the trail going right by downtown, through several parks, you’d think this rating would be a bit higher, The parks however, with the exception of Southside Park and the Belleville Skate Board Park, seem very unused. They have a serious has-been kind of vibe. In fact, the majority of the trail seems to follow areas that most people wouldn’t consider good hang-out zones. Then, of course, as mentioned before, there’s the cleanliness.

Cleanliness: 1/5

This is by far the worst trail I have seen in this regard. The entire creek bed is spotted with garbage that is both a result of the people who use the trail as well as reflecting a general trashy attitude from the surrounding neighborhoods. A lot of the trash just blows in from random areas.

Resources: 2/5

With its proximity to downtown Belleville, there are certainly many chances to shop and dine. Like other St. Clair Country trails, there are no bike shops along the ride, and the DIY bike repair station is back on the MetroBikeLink.