Perry Lake Trail

The Perry Lake Trail is primarily accessed from the eastern side of Perry Lake near Ozawkie, Kansas. The northern end, known as the Old Military Trailhead, is a common starting point. You'll find parking facilities at various points along the route within the Perry Lake Recreation Area.

Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Be mindful of ticks, especially during warmer months, and check your pet thoroughly after your hike.

The fall, winter, and spring seasons are highly recommended for hiking this trail. During these times, you'll minimize encounters with ticks, bugs, and poison ivy, and enjoy more comfortable temperatures. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a stark, quiet beauty.

The Perry Lake Trail is located within the Perry Lake Recreation Area. While specific sections or facilities might have fees, generally, there are no entrance fees or permits required just to access the hiking trail itself. It's always a good idea to check the official Perry Lake Recreation Area website for the most current information on any potential fees for parking or amenities.

The full 29-mile loop is generally considered to have a moderate difficulty level, but it includes strenuous sections with over 2,000 feet of elevation gain. The northern end, especially from the Old Military Trailhead, is known for steep inclines. Beginners might find shorter, flatter sections more manageable, but the full loop presents a significant challenge.

The trail traverses what's known as 'Kansas' Little Ozarks,' offering hilly, forested terrain with rolling and steep sections along the reservoir's shoreline. You'll encounter diverse landscapes including rocky lakeshore, steep bluffs, tallgrass prairies, and wetlands. The path is a mix of packed earth, rock, and can have muddy patches. Expect panoramic views of Perry Lake and the surrounding countryside.

Yes, the Perry Lake Trail is a 29-mile loop trail. This allows hikers to experience a diverse range of scenery without retracing their steps, though shorter out-and-back sections are also popular.

The full 29-mile (approximately 46.7 km) loop is a significant undertaking. Based on an average hiking speed, it can take around 14 hours to complete. Many hikers choose to break it into multi-day trips or hike shorter sections. Our data suggests a duration of approximately 13 hours and 54 minutes for the entire route.

The diverse ecosystems along the route provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. You might spot deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species, especially near water sources and in the forested areas. Keep an eye out for smaller mammals and reptiles as well.

The northern end of the trail, particularly when accessed from the Old Military Trailhead, is known for its steep inclines and significant ascents over bluffs overlooking the lake, offering a good challenge. The trail also has a remote feel, allowing for a deep immersion in nature, and features interpretive signs about its historical significance as part of the Old Military Trail and the region's past.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Perry Lake Trail, which is the official name for various segments of this extensive path.