Wetland Loop de Loop

This loop takes advantage of some hidden, unmarked trails in Lincoln, known only to locals. It's a great option when weather conditions are unfavourable for the "Let’s Go Down to Liffey Town" run, which can be disrupted by flooding over the stepping stones in the wetland.

Start at the carved limestone statue on Liffey Springs Dr. and head south along the Little River Rail Trail, following a short section of asphalt. Keep an eye out for Slinky, the rock snake—a creative sculpture made from hundreds of painted stones—marking the right direction. Cross the small bridge to join an easy gravel trail. On your right, you'll pass 'No Fishing' signs, and if you’re lucky on the way back, you might spot some eels in the river.

Continue along the gravel trail until you reach a fork, where you'll turn right. Follow this path for about 40 meters, then turn right again, crossing a bridge to return to the pavement. At the end of the pavement, turn right and run along the grass, then take a left onto an unmarked trail that skirts the edge of the wetland. Stay straight as the trail leads you around the wetland, eventually meeting the pavement once more.

Cross back over the bridge, turn left, and run for about 40 meters. Skip the small concrete weir and continue along the gravel trail. You'll soon reach a newly built bridge crossing over the wetland. Head south through the car park, then follow the trail along the southern edge of the wetland. After about 400 meters, turn right and continue back in the direction of your car. When you reach the final bridge near Slinky, don't cross it. Instead, turn right onto a well-trodden grass path on the east side of the wetland. From here you can admire the springs and see the bubbles emitting from the silt in the bottom of the river. Follow this path, cross the grass at the end, and you'll return to your car.