Fremont – Tillie Wheeler

Tillie Wheeler

As kids, we’ve all been told to “get off the TV and go play outside” and “use your imagination”, but unfortunately, many of us grow out of this phase. Part of growing up is in fact “growing up”, but I still cling to that child-like imagination and curiosity as much as possible. From my experience, one of the best places to feel those emotions again is at Fremont Dog Park. Yes, I know how strange it sounds, but it’s unlike any dog park I’ve ever been to. When I take Juno, my mini aussie-heeler mix, we don’t just play with other dogs and people in the park, we go to the trails. Behind the fenced-in area are miles of overgrown trails that back up into Tuttle Creek. Just like a toddler, Juno is extremely exploratory and this is the perfect place for her to go off-leash. When she and I are back there, it feels like we are the only ones in the world. All of my worries and anxiety fades away while we’re exploring and walking the trails. The woods are beaming with life, and no walk is ever the same. During this past April, Juno and I visited the park twice one week and during one visit, everything was green, the birds were chirping, and the flowers were beginning to bloom. Not even 5 days later, the green was then replaced with a fresh blanket of snow, it was peacefully quiet, with only a chirp from a bird here and there. If you look hard enough, no experience in the outdoors is ever the same, there’s always something new to see or find.

Fremont Park will always be special to me as Juno is my first dog and this is the place where I made irreplaceable memories with her. From 8 weeks old to now over a year old. It’s interesting to see how fast time passes. I can’t help but be slightly saddened when I look back through all of the photos that she and I have taken together. While the park, woods, and water don’t change much, she does. She’s my best friend and I cherish every day I get with her.

For those who have never been, Fremont Park is a great place to take your dog and spend time with them, but you don’t have to have a dog to visit. Aside from the dog park, there’s disk golf, open spaces for picnics, hammocks, and of course, the trails. In my opinion, the best times to visit are spring and fall/winter. During the summer, the foliage takes over the woods and the paths begin to look like deer trails: tall grass/greenery with narrow walkways. It’s still enjoyable, but the amount of ticks and mosquitoes make it difficult to enjoy your time. During the cooler months of the year, you can still enjoy the green without all of the bugs. If you wish to be alone, take the path to the right. Many people don’t even know that side exists or what it leads to, but it’s great when you’re wanting to spend time alone and reflect.

Regardless if you have a dog or your experience outdoors, Fremont Park is a great place to spend time outdoors without being too physically demanding. I highly recommend for anyone looking to get away from the busyness of life without having to drive to the middle of nowhere.