East Lake Trail – Backbone Sp

Distance: 3.5 miles Elevation Gain: 300 ft Difficulty: Moderate Type: Loop Surface: Dirt/Rock Activity: Hiking Best Season: Year-round Typical Time: 2-3 hours Fee: Free Dogs: Yes, on leash Permit: No

The East Lake Trail circles the park's main reservoir through second-growth maple and basswood forest. The lake offers trout fishing and canoe rentals in summer. Limestone outcroppings punctuate the shoreline throughout, and white-tailed deer are frequently spotted at dawn and dusk along the water's edge. The trail connects to longer ridge routes for those seeking additional miles.