Osgood Canal Greenway and Urban Trail

Description

The Osgood Canal Greenway and Urban Trail is a network of paved walking and biking paths and sidewalks that circles the center of Burgaw. The original east loop runs 2.6 miles, following the Osgood Canal through shaded, wooded stretches before passing historical markers in the historic downtown. A west loop of about 1.8 miles continues through the neighborhoods west of downtown, and together the loops make up about four miles of trail. The route links the town's schools and several parks, so a family walk can include playground stops along the way. Hankins Park has a pavilion, picnic tables and restrooms, and the W. Ross Harrell Memorial Park playground sits diagonally across the street. Rotary Park, also on the trail, adds a playground under large shade trees, restrooms, fitness stations, children's climbing squares and an artificial-turf sprint track. Johnson Park offers a quiet, landscaped spot beside the canal with no facilities. The paths are asphalt and concrete, and many streets connect to the trail, so families with young children can walk a short section while older kids take on a full loop. Parts of the trail are also part of North Carolina's Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Pets must be on a leash, and alcohol is not allowed.