Fall River's Hidden Gem: Unearthing the Thrills of Badger Creek Trail

Quick Facts

• Distance: 4 miles
• Level: Intermediate
• Route Type: Loop
• Location: Fall River, Kansas

Getting There: Setting Your Bearings

To reach Badger Creek Trail, head to Fall River Lake, located off HWY 400 between HWY 99 and HWY 75. Follow the signs to Fall River State Park at road Z50. Your next landmarks are Lake Road, Quarry Bay Area, and Badger Creek Road, which will lead you to a modest parking area marking the trailhead.

Terrain and Ride Experience: Rocks, Roots, and Streams

Right from the start, Badger Creek Trail sets the pace with a mix of dirt, rocks, and roots. Continue straight past the rest area and find yourself at flat rock bluffs, a perfect vantage point for what's to come. Ascend up the hillside, navigating through rocky sections that demand technical prowess. This isn't just a cruise; it's a challenge—peppered with stream crossings and opportunities to pick up speed.

Highlights and Features:

• Rock Gardens: A delightful stretch of boulders and rocks to navigate.
• Flat Rock Bluffs: Exhilarating flat sections that provide a short breather.
• Stream Crossings: Demanding yet satisfying water features.
• Technical Rock Sections: Perfect for honing advanced skills.

As the trail winds back to its starting point, make sure not to miss the old bunker near the end—a historical curiosity worth a short detour.

Comments and Trail Condition: What to Expect

The trail does have some overgrown spots, making it a bit harder to navigate in places. Seasonal leaf coverage can obscure the trail, so new markers could enhance the experience. Despite these minor drawbacks, the track remains very rideable and offers a stimulating mix of technical and easier sections.

The Local's Take: Who Will Love This Trail?

• Riders eager for a balanced mix of technicality and flow
• Cyclists looking for intermediate-level challenges
• Nature enthusiasts who can appreciate the oak forest and rock formations

Concluding Thoughts

Badger Creek Trail serves up a fulfilling ride that satisfies the adventurer within. It’s a trail that will call you back, whether it's to conquer a tricky section you bypassed or to simply experience the rush all over again. Offering a wide variety of terrain, from creek crossings to rock gardens, it's a destination for bikers wanting to push their boundaries. Its mix of natural beauty and technical challenges places it high on any serious cyclist's list, making it one of Kansas's must-ride trails.