My wife and I, on a gorgeous April spring Sunday afternoon, took our first walk to and through the Rabbit River Trail without Bella the Wonderdog.

It had been one of Bella’s favorite activities throughout her nearly 16 years of life. She really enjoyed it because we so often were able to unhook her from her collar and let her run along the trail uninhibited. Though she occasionally strayed into some swampy water, she usually maintained a whistling distance from us.

But Sunday afternoon’s promenade was different, and not just because of the absence of Bella. It was the most crowded we’ve ever seen it in the many years we’ve visited.

I should have known. I overheard members of the Wayland City Council, in their virtual meeting Thursday night, reporting an uptick of use the trail. Some suggested it’s one of the few positive developments as a result of the current Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.

Many observers apparently suppose that bored families, suffering from a serious bout of Cabin Fever, found an excellent spring day with temperatures in the mid-60s as an opportunity to get out and about in town.

I counted about two dozen vehicles in the parking lot at the trail’s entrance. That’s more than 20 more than what my spouse, Bella and I have noticed in any our many visits in days gone by. Still more visitors arrived by walking with strollers and doggies of their own.

I have long believed that the Rabbit River Trail was one of the most underused and underappreciated natural assets in this city. I’ve heard grumbling from residents that the trail was a waste of money, a frill cooked up by a bunch of tree huggers.

Because it was underused, we were able during all those years to turn Bella loose for a merry romp along the Rabbit, sometimes daring to go for a brief swim. Meanwhile, we got plenty of exercise in a pleasant manner.

Taking Bella Sunday afternoon would have been northing short of a disaster because many other local citizens brought their furry friends with them. Just as too many cooks can spoil the broth, too many canines can spoil the walk if they don’t get along.

About the only worry we had was being able to keep the proper distance from fellow walkers. After all, our governor told us to practice six feet apart or risk six feet under.

Another minor discomfort was that the two outdoor bathrooms were closed until further notice. Just hold it.

Now I hear tell some people report that over the last six weeks the best result has been the decrease in pollution and citizens in India are seeing the sky for the first time. Closer to home, my biggest takeaway has been the hope that Wayland citizens somehow have discovered a local treasure in their midst.