Commonwealth Lake and Parks

I lived here for years before discovering this lake. I was searching for a flat place to run, and my husband, a local, suggested it as if I'd been there dozens of times.

Well, we've been there dozens of times now. What a place to take the kids! And to run too.

Outing: THPRD Commonwealth Lake Park and Foothills Park

Cost: Free

Travel time: For me about 5 minutes. It's near the junction of Hwy 26 and Hwy 217. See map here.

Age: Any age, but there is easily accessible water at the park on the lake.
Restroom options: One port-a-potty at each park. The one at the lake is wheelchair accessible.

Reason to go: The lake, the birds, and two different parks with play structures.

Commonwealth Lake is man-made with a 3/4 mile paved trail around it. 

Commonwealth Lake Park has swings, a play structure, a large soccer field nearby, and a variety of birds.

You've gotta look out for this resident goose. He might try to nip at you.

Note in the very top picture that there is easy access to the lake. As in fall into the lake access if a child wasn't being careful.

That being said, I've loved this destination with my kids for a long time. The flat, paved trail is ideal for running with a stroller or simply going for a walk. The swings, play structures, and mature trees also make this a real gem.

Foothills Park is on the side of the lake opposite Commonwealth Lake Park, and across the street.

It's smaller with no lake access. It might be a good choice if you are concerned about the water.

There is a large field behind it, and that grove of trees shown in the picture above shelters a trail.

The trail leads you through an updated basketball court and wooded area before coming out on a street about a half mile away. If you follow the map found in the link above, you end up at the Cedar Hills Recreation Center. This little trail is just isolated enough to feel like hiking, but has easy access to the park, rec center, or lake if desired. Plus the two-mile loop described in the link is a great solo running route.

It's hard to find a free, kid-friendly destination with as many options and things to do as Commonwealth Lake.

Kids' Activity Level

I came across this article today--it's everywhere on Twitter.
http://healthland.time.com/2012/04/03/why-are-parents-less-likely-to-take-little-girls-outside-to-play/
The idea is that kids aren't getting outside enough. Girls are outside playing less than boys. Interestingly, lower outdoor activity rates seem to fall along racial lines with Asian parents spending the least amount of time at parks. Weird. And sad.
The one bright spot was that physically active moms (activity equalling least 4 times a week) seem to get their kids outdoors more. 
What does all this mean? Take advantage of some good upcoming weather and hit the playgrounds! Here's a link to the wonderful variety in the THPRD system.
http://www.thprd.org/parks/parklist.cfm
Get out and play!