Trail maintenance occurs primarily in late fall and early spring (see Maintenance Map below). By mid-May, ticks and poison ivy become a nuisance on the trail and hikers are encouraged to plan accordingly. Clothing treatments under the brand names of Duranon or Permanone (both are permethrine-based) are highly effective tick repellents and recommended when hiking from April through September.

Section 1 sees frequent use, due to its proximity to major camping facilities on the lake. You can expect Section 1 to be very well defined within approximately two miles of Slough Creek Park, near the Lakeside Village boat ramp and near Apple Valley Farm. Section 1 has seen recent maintenance throughout. The spur trail to Devil's Gap has also recently been cleared. (Spur trails are marked with White paint blazes.)

The Longview Park area has seen regular maintenance and is an ideal choice for day hikes within this park area. The trail portion between the two park roads is 0.5 miles in length. The campground area of Longview Park closes September 30th and reopens May 1st, but you can continue to access the trail where is crosses the road just south of Apple Valley Farm.

The west end of Section 2 runs from Longview Park to Old Quarry Road crossing. This 4.2 mile portion of the trail follows the perimeter of the Lakewood Hills subdivision and offers many scenic views of the lake.

The east end of Section 2 runs from Old Military Trail to Old Quarry Road. Hikers looking for a short day hike can access the trail at Old Military Trail parking lot and hike north and west from the parking lot onto the trail. The first 2.0 miles follows rugged terrain with some views of the lake. A spur trail leads to the walk-in hiker's campground within Old Military Trail Park. (Spur trails are marked with White paint blazes.)

Section 3 runs from Old Military Trail Park to 94th Street. The trail should be easy to follow and well marked with blue paint blazes. This section sees regular maintenance in the spring and fall. Hiker's can access Section 3 from the Old Military Trail parking lot and hike east from the parking lot.

Section 4 was recently rerouted to cross Ferguson Road near the Slough Creek Bridge boat ramp and parking area. Some parts of this section east of Ferguson Road will have seasonal undergrowth and may be difficult to follow in a few areas. When in doubt, stop and scout for the next few blue blazes on the trees ahead.

During Fall and Winter months, keep in mind that parts of the trail are also in use by hunters. Check hunting season schedules and dress in bright colors. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us or call the Corps project office at 785-597-5144.

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HELP: See something on the trail? Downed trees? Missing trail markers? Vandalism? Unauthorized users? Please contact us or the Corps project office to report these items. Your help will help us maintain the trail for your enjoyment! Thanks!!!

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The map below shows areas along the trail that have recently been cleared/maintained: