McDOUGAL LAKE TRAIL(s) DESCRIPTIONS AND MAP

Trail Descriptions:

BIG WOODS - Yellow Trail 4 miles

The Big Woods was the first and original section of the MLT Trail System. From the kiosk and back using the Big Woods trail, a hiker will travel approximately 4 miles.  From the parking area, cross the dam and follow the path to the MLT ranch sign.  From here, the option exists to go left or right to make the full loop.  The Big Woods stays on the perimeter of the northwest section of the McDougal property and consists of mixed forest.  It is a combination of a double and single track path with several bridges and rolling terrain.  Hiking, trail running, mountain biking and geocaching are all common activities on the trail.  There are two designated campsites off the Big Woods trail.  You must register to camp with the city using their online registration link.

VALLEY TRAIL - Orange Trail .5 miles (3 miles when added to portions of the Big Woods)

The Valley Trail was the second trail created within the MLT trail system.  This was designed as a hiking only trail.  It can be accessed from the Big Woods Trail.  From the Kiosk following the Big Woods, accessing the Valley Trail, and then taking the Big Woods back to the kiosk is approximately 3 miles long.  This trail passes through the interior of the northwest section of the McDougal Property.  It takes hikers to the bottom drainage canals that feed McDougal Lake.  This section has several rustic bridges and is a great location to spot wildlife.  It also highlights some of the natural features such as “Trollville” and “Horseshoe Bend.”  One designated campsite exists off this trail. You must register to camp with the city using their online registration link.

LAKESIDE LOOP - Red Trail 5.25 mile (close to 9 miles when coupled with the Big Woods Trail)

The Lakeside Loop trail was the third trail constructed at the MLT trail system.  This trail traverses the northern section of the property and highlights McDougal  lake and the long draws that make the natural drainage areas feeding the lake.  This section is the most strenuous of the MLT trails.  However, a series of well marked shortcuts exist to alleviate some of the elevation and allow for a shorter option for some hikers.  In addition to hiking, geocaching, and mountain biking are also popular activities.  No designated campsites exist on this trail section. 

SLAB FORD RUN - Purple Trail .25 miles

The Slab Ford Run is a small loop in the heart of the McDougall property.  This loop is accessed from either the Big Woods Trail or the Lakeside Trail. It highlights a secondary feeder creek that supplies McDougal Lake.  Two very distinct bridges exist on this trail, a small staircase, and a natural slab rock crossing.  It can be coupled with either the Big Woods Trail or the Lakeside Trail to highlight the awe and wonder of the forest sights and sounds or it serves as a connection between two main trail sections.

TADPOLE TRAIL - Yellow outlined in black trail .25 miles

The Tadpole Trail was specifically designed for novice or early mountain bike riders.  It can be accessed off the Big Woods Trail.  From the Kiosk, cross the dam, follow the path and when you reach the MLT ranch sign, go left.  It is approximately one mile from the kiosk to reach the trail entrance.  It is a low threat loop that serves as an introduction area for first time mountain bikers.  It can also serve as a quick loop for young hikers or even young trail runners.

OTHER NOTABLE TRAIL SECTIONS ON THE MLT

Lincoln Prairie Trail - This trail can be accessed off the Big Woods Trail right before the ranch sign.  It traverses McDougal Lake’s spillway ridgeline and flows through the wild and native prairie grasses. To experience its beauty, it is best hiked in late summer or early fall. 

Horizon Loop Spur - This short loop can be accessed off the Lakeside Trail.  It is primarily designed for mountain bikers to “play.”  It has a few intermediate wooden features that make it interesting.  In the late fall and throughout the winter, it also serves as a good viewpoint overlooking the lake and does attract hikers and runners.

Beaver Loop - This is a short spur that can be accessed off the Lakeside Trail that highlights the main McDougal Creek and the beaver activity that exists.  It is definitely a path for nature lovers.