Ozark Greenways

James River Greenway & Trail of Honor

Currently there are three one-mile segments of the James River Greenway. One segment connects the James River iron bridge north to the end of the former frontage road (Gasconade Avenue) that crosses over Highway 65 and connects to an on-street bicycle loop to and from Sequiota Park. The second segment of the trail is along the north bank of Lake Springfield Park, from the park entrance to the boathouse on the lake shore. The third segment is a one-mile trail section called the Trail of Honor, that meanders along the banks of the beautiful James River and the edge of the Missouri Veteran's Cemetery.

Future trail plans will connect these segments and extend northward along the James River. A future bridge across Lake Springfield  has been planned to join the trail sections on the south and north sides of Lake Springfield. This trail will also connect to the Chadwick Flyer Rail Trail, the planned regional trail between Springfield and the City of Ozark. The timeline for extending and connecting these trails are contingent upon funding and land acquisition.

POINTS OF INTEREST:
- In 2017, we opened a trail section called the Trail of Honor. This unprecedented trail segment is made possible by a partnership between the Missouri Veterans Commission, C.W. Titus Foundation, and Ozark Greenways donors. We invite you to travel through this landscape with respectful reflection in honor of our country's veterans.
Lake Springfield Park has a lovely boathouse with seasonal canoe and kayak rentals to explore the 6-mile James River Water Trail and a 1.4-mile woodchipped nature trail in addition to the paved greenway trail.

Parking & Trail Access

Parking is available at Southwood Boat Access & Trailhead at 5201 S. Southwood Rd.; Lake Springfield Park at 5324 S. Kissick Ave.; Anywhere along Galloway Creek Greenway

Map

Download a printable version of this Ozark Greenways map

Gallery


Length

3 miles total, for 2 segments

Terrain

Mixed concrete and asphalt paved surface - Minimal to moderate inclines

Accessibility

Walkers, runners, bicyclists, in-line skaters, wheelchairs, baby strollers

Hours

Open during daylight hours only

Interactive Map

  • Gravel
  • Pavement
  • Mulch/Natural
  • Water
  • Bike Lanes
  • Shared Lane Markings
  • Signed Bike Route

Greenway Etiquette

Bicyclists
  • Show courtesy, greenways are for all users.
  • Yield right-of-way to pedestrians.
  • Keep to the right (except to pass).
  • Always pass on the left and give ample room.
  • Before you pass a pedestrian or another bicyclist, slow down and either ring a bell or politely call out “passing on your left”.
  • Stay single file in congested conditions.
  • Ride at a safe speed and enjoy the view.
All Users
  • Share the greenway; be considerate of all users.
  • Stay right, pass on the left. Announce when passing. 
  • If you stop, step off the greenway.
  • Turn down volume on earphones so that you can hear other greenway users.
  • Keep dogs on a leash and clean up after your pet.
  • Report trail hazards in Greene County to Springfield-Greene County Parks at 864-1049.
  • Call 911 to report crime.

We rely on the enthusiasm and financial support of the community.

Learn more about how you can help
© 2024 Ozark Greenways Built by Demi Creative