Park Trails

Equestrian Trail System

This trail traverses oak-hickory forest on the west side and stands of red cedar on the east side. A center trail on the north end is a more open, grassy area that follows a ridge on a gentle slope down to a creek. It intersects the east trail, and then a little farther on, the west side of the trail. Watch for loose rocks and steep slopes when approaching the two creek crossings. Some trail areas may be rutted, particularly on the extreme northwest and northeast sections. Trail conditions will be muddy after moderate rain and snowfall. In addition, the trail has a white connector and a blue connector that can be used to shorten or extended your hike or ride.

A point of interest is the Franklin School, which is eight-sided, and the Mount Vernon Church on the north end of the trail loop. Both of these buildings date back to the early 1870s; they are separated from the equestrian trail by a fence. Feel free to tie up the horses and walk over for a closer look. There is a vault toilet in the parking lot on the far side of the church. 

The trail parking lot accommodates eight to 10 horse trailers and has two picnic tables. There is no water; horses may be watered at two creek crossings depending on the season. A vault toilet is located in the parking lot of the nearby group camping area. The trail is open 8 a.m. to sunset. Equestrian camping is not available. Please stay on designated trails and do not ride on roads or paved trails. Bicycles are prohibited and state law requires dogs to be leashed.

Paved Bicycle Lake Trail

This paved path circles the 100-acre Williams Creek Lake. It is eight feet wide, asphalt with a moderate grade and has six wood bridges and one metal truss bridge. The trail meanders through an oak-hickory forest, with openings that offer vistas of the lake. Deer, turkey and songbirds often can be seen along the trail.  In winter, geese and, occasionally, bald eagles are on the ice or flying over the lake. The trail is accessible from several parking lots or the campground, and is adjacent to picnic areas. Water fountains are on the west side of the trail. On the east side of the trail, there is only one vault toilet type, located near the dam. Park benches are scattered along the trail. A point of interest is the seasonal water in Williams Creek, north of the swim beach. A wood overlook deck provides an opportunity to rest. The narrow, wood bridges are slippery when wet or ice-covered, and some are located on blind corners.  In some locations, the pavement edge drops off sharply.