Best Park Best Place to Walk/Jog

Lace up your sneakers and head to Smucker Park, named Yuma's Best Place To Walk/Jog by The Sun's readers.

"The city of Yuma is very grateful to know that city residents enjoy and take advantage of park facilities," said Troy Wilde, public affairs coordinator with the city of Yuma.

"I drive by there almost every day and see people walking and jogging."

It's a great place for families to recreate and play games, and several nonprofit agencies host annual walkathons at the park, he said.

Nearly a mile long, the park's walking path encircles grassy, hilly areas dotted with shade trees. There's also a playground, restrooms and picnic ramadas.

"It's a very peaceful place that's well-landscaped. There are a lot of trees, and you usually see the same friendly faces. It's a very family-friendly and user-friendly place."

Besides being a great, centrally located park, it's also popular because people have an emotional attachment to Ray Smucker, a pioneer broadcaster whose legacy and contribution to the history of Yuma are important, Wilde said.

He said the city is grateful for the Yuma's Best votes. "The city would also like to extend gratitude to The Sun for publishing this list each year. It goes a long way toward reinforcing and building a community spirit."

Smucker Park hours are from dawn to 11 p.m. every day of the year. Enter the park on Avenue A, between 24th Street and 32nd Street. Call 373-5243 for more information.