Springfield Paths: Dorris Ranch, Middle Fork & More

Springfield is a part of the metro area located west of I-5. It has a wealth of multi-use paths that are terrific for running, as seen in the attached map. Highlights include:

Dorris Ranch. A “Living History Farm” with 4+ miles of dirt paths looping through the park. It’s also the western trailhead for the Middle Fork Path.

Middle Fork Path.  4-mile paved path along a ‘fork’ of the Willamette River, which runs from Dorris Ranch east to Clearwater Park, through Georgia Pacific Park. It is a combination of wooded and open, with water views a good part of the way.

Mill Race Path. A 3-mile path that comes off the Middle Fork Path in Gerogia Pacific Park, and heads west to Mill Race Park near the center of Springfield. Runners can also explore the 4+ miles of other dirt paths looping through the park. Another popular option is to take the Middle Fork Path to Georgia Pacific Park, then turn LEFT onto the Mill Race Path for 2.7 miles to the center of Springfield.

A nice long run from the center of Springfield is the Springfield Connector along South 2nd St. to Dorris Ranch, enjoy the trails there, then takethe Middle Fork Path to the Mill Race Path.