Ellis Park to Blanton Woods Trail

You can find convenient parking at Ellis Park. This park offers amenities like restrooms and shelters, making it a good starting point for your hike. From Ellis Park, you can easily access the interconnected trail system leading to Blanton Woods.

Yes, the trail is generally considered easy and is designed to accommodate various fitness levels. While the overall route is manageable, some sections, particularly in Blanton Woods, might be grassy or have small streams, so appropriate footwear is recommended.

The trail offers diverse scenery, transitioning from the developed parkland of Ellis Park to the natural woodlands of Blanton Woods. You'll encounter well-maintained paths, wooded trails, and sections along White Lick Creek. The area features low rolling hills, characteristic of the local glacial landscape.

While the trail is generally dog-friendly, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially in the more natural Blanton Woods area, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users.

A key feature is the seamless connection between Ellis Park and Blanton Woods, made possible by a pedestrian bridge over White Lick Creek. In Ellis Park, you can see the historic swinging bridge and a 'Playscape wooden playground'. Blanton Woods offers a more natural, preserved woodland experience.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access Blanton Woods Nature Park or the connecting trails. Blanton Woods was donated with the agreement that it would be used strictly for nature study, keeping it accessible to the public.

Danville's moderate climate allows for year-round outdoor activities on these trails. However, spring and fall offer particularly pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Be aware that creek levels can rise, especially after heavy rain, which might affect some sections.

Restrooms and other amenities like shelters are available at Ellis Park. Blanton Woods, however, does not have restrooms, maintaining its natural character. There is a small picnic shelter within Blanton Woods.

While the historic bridge in Ellis Park is accessible, the trails within Blanton Woods are generally not wheelchair friendly due to their natural, wooded terrain and potential for uneven surfaces.

The full route, which is approximately 4.7 kilometers (2.9 miles), typically takes around 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace. This includes the Blanton Woods Nature Park Loop, which is about 5.3 km and can be done in about 1 hour and 8 minutes.

For a more immersive nature experience, consider starting your hike from Ellis Park and heading directly into Blanton Woods. This allows you to transition from the park amenities to the preserved woodlands, offering a diverse and peaceful journey along White Lick Creek. Remember that Blanton Woods is strictly for nature study, so active recreational developments are prohibited, ensuring a tranquil environment.