Quick-and-dirty version
Access: Main Entrance (park info)
Round Trip: 8.1 miles
Elevation Range: 200′-300'
Essential Gear: none
Dog-friendly: yes
Even though winter hours were from 8 AM to dusk, the main gate was open when we showed up at 6:30. The north entrance off Tilley Road was gated until after 8. We hung out until then before pulling into the first parking area by Deep Lake.
As with any in-city parks, it's best to show up early (yes, at the crack of dawn) to enjoy peacefulness. The dog and I met half a dozen folks and a few dogs before wrapping up the walk. The lots were nearly full when we finished before 11.
THE TRAILS:
- Overall excellent but occasionally muddy over some parts due to recent rain.
- Every trail fork had a map stand to indicate the exact location and to keep people from getting lost.
- The first span of Fen Way Boardwalk past the third south lot as slick due to the wetness. The second stretch was covered in a thin metal grating to keep from slipping and felt way safer.
- To make the long drive worthwhile, we covered nearly all the trails, a little over 8 miles,
- The half-mile stretch from the third south lot to the retreat center was off-limits to hikers.
Our Route
- From the main entrance, go west and clockwise through the park using different combos of trails.
- Quarry Pond in the southwest corner can be accessed from anywhere without warning signs.
Highlights
- Doggy bags and paper maps available at the bulletin board
- Expansive view of Deep Lake from the main entrance through the north shore
- The smaller and serene Quarry Pond in the southwest corner
- Early morning solitude and partly sunny
Lowlights
- Muddy areas throughout
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