Trail 10

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Wildlife

If you are looking for a rugged trail, then check out Trail 10! With a couple of steep uphill climbs and descents along washed out terrain, this 2.2-mile trail is scenic and secluded, while also offering a bit of a challenge. One of the more difficult trails in the state park, this trail will definitely get you winded in some spots, but isn’t so tough that you have to be an expert to complete it.

It starts at the firetower, which also is something fun to do in the park (if you can make the climb up the stairs, the view from the 90-foot structure is worth it).

After hitting the trail, you'll hike along a wide, straight path before meeting a split in the trail. Stay to the left to continue your hike. Next, you’ll approach a steep descent, which levels out at the bottom. A couple more small ascents and descents, and you’ll discover a little pond about one mile in. Shortly after, the trail will become more washed out as you encounter a steep descent into the trail basin.

At your lowest point, around 1.3 miles in, you’ll cross a creek bed before beginning your ascent out. Get ready for a pretty tough uphill climb for a couple tenths of a mile before the trail flattens out. Then, it’s time to climb again until you reach the Shelter House at mile 1.9. Catch your breath and take a break before wrapping up the trail with one more moderate climb that will take you back to the initial split. Once there, it’s smooth sailing until you reach the end.

Chipmunks, wild blackberries, ferns, fungi, butterflies, frogs and toads.