A masterful feat of urban/suburban design, the paved 17.8-mile Mill Creek Parkway runs next to Mill Creek from the Kansas River at the Wilder Road River Access in Shawnee to Northgate Street in Olathe. Parking is available at or near most major intersections along the parkway, which is roughly parallel to I-435. Johnson County Public Transit also has stops at or near some Mill Creek crossings (and the buses have those handy bike racks). The Mill Creek path lies in a sometimes narrow, sometimes wide, gently sloped or level green strip that winds through residential, industrial, and commercial areas. Cars and motorized vehicles are prohibited, making the trail perfect for family outings or times when you simply must get away. Mature elm and cottonwood trees line the way, and the creek always flows serenely next to the trail. The contiguous nature of the parkway also encourages an array of migratory and permanent bird life, and lucky escapees may even see deer along the way. In whole or in parts, the parkway is a real gem for bike riders who need to get off the street.
