Devil's Den State Park:
Offers a 1.5 mile self guided trail that includes two fracture caves, unusal rock formaitons, flowing springs and lot of nature. The park's backpaking Butterfield Trail is 14.5 miles long with scenic vistas and unspoiled wilderness.

Dogwood Overlook Trail
Dam Site Park - Overlook - Difficult Dogwood Trail spans 2 miles of relatively steep terrian. As th name suggests flowering dogwood trees abound throughout the area. Spectacular overlooks, beautiful geographic features and one of the largest bluff shelters found on Beaver Lake await you along the trail.

Fishtrap Nature Trail
Lost Birdge Park (sout area) - Moderate Diffculty Fishtrap trail requires 30 minutes of walking time. It extends a short didtance uphill to a level bench on the hillside leading to a long overhanging bluff. The bluff is typical of the many such shelters of prehistoric bluff-dewlling Indian tribes

Lake Wedington Trail:
This hike is 15.4 miles round trip. Lead past Twin Knobs, a unique rock formation, and ends on the banks of the Illinois River. Great for an overnight hiking trip.

Lost Bridge Hiking Trail
Lost Bridge Park (north area) - Moderate Difficulty Lost Bridge Hiking Trail winds about five miles through a heavily wooded area with an abundance of scenic attractions, bluff overlooks and sandstone - limestone outcroppings. Interpretive displays along the trail explain pond ecology and the lifestyle of rural families of a bygone era.

Pea Ridge National Military Park:
This is an easy self-guided trails which begins and ends at famous Elk Horn Tavern and takes around one half hour.  

Rim Rock Nature Trail
Prairie Creek Park (north area) - Easy Rim Rock Trail provides a winding 45-minute leisurley walk through a scenic wooded area. For about half its didtance the trail follows along the bas of a long low limestone bluff. The many wildflowers and hardwood threes provide a profusion of color in both summer and fall.

Hiking Tips

Plan your trip carefully, know where you are going and where you want to stay each night. Protect yourself and the environment.

1. Be responsible and enjoy the lake and the surrounding environment.
2. Give a friend or relative a description of your itinerary in case you get lost or in case an emergency situation arises.
3. Keep all pets on a leash at all times. You are responsible for your dogs at all times.
4. Know your physical limitations. Do not overestimate your physical condition or the terrain.
5. Be aware of the poisonous snakes, plants, mushrooms and animals that could potentially be threatening in the area that you will be hiking.
6. Please refrain from damaging plants, flowers and trees around the lake.. Most damage occurs when individuals pick flowers, cut limbs, or tear off leaves.
7. Stay on the trail! This message is often heard any time a person is outdoors for a reason - to avoid getting lost or hurt. One solution is GPS.
8. Take a first-aid kit and bring insect repellent to avoid chiggers, ticks, and mosquitoes in the spring and summer months.
9. Take precautions with smoking materials. Each year many fires are a result of carelessness.Being aware will prevent the ever-present danger of wildfires.
10. Always take extra water and snacks for hikes of any distance. Food is obviously very important resource, I carry as much as possible when I hike.
11. Consider the amount of gear, footwear, and clothing that is appropriate for the trail and season. Have fun and enjoy Beaver Lakes trails.


Make sure your equipment checklist is complete!!!!!