Beaver Lake

Follow this old railroad grade trail along the rushing Sauk River to the bridge above Beaver Lake. The name of the lake is derived from its occupants. Great for families with only 100 feet of elevation gain throughout the hike. This hike is excellent in the fall because of the abundance of  oversized bigleaf maple leaves on the ground, and in the winter and spring because the barren tree allow for amazing mountain and river views. Follow a gravel path down towards the river where the gravel ends and the old railroad grade begins. The forest opens up at the river to reveal the surrounding mountain peaks, and if you look down, you’ll see old rails that used to run along the river. The trail can sometimes washout in this area, known as ‘The Slide” so please use caution, but it is the only portion of the trail that suffers from heavy erosion. Once past The Slide, the rail turns away from the river and travels through marshy area. There are several cute little wooden bridges that children will enjoy crossing. At the end of the marsh, you will arrive at a large wooden bridge over Beaver Lake. The bridge was taken out last year by a fallen tree, but the portion that remains open is sturdy and safe. Enjoy a picnic here before heading back to the trailhead.