The Rough and Ready Ride of Badger Creek Trail: A Challenge for the Avid Cyclist

Quick Facts

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

Navigating to the Trailhead: Don't Miss the Stone Totem

The trailhead is inconspicuously marked by a small totem of stones and can be hard to spot. To find it, head off HWY 400 between HWY 99 and HWY 75. Follow signs for Fall River State Park and navigate through Lake Road and Badger Creek Road until you spot a large low water bridge. The trailhead is about 1/8 mile before this bridge on the right.

Terrain and Landscape: A Symphony of Challenges

Commencing at the open prairie, the trail takes riders through a blend of tall grass and into an encompassing forest. By the half-mile mark, a fork presents itself. The trail on the right is highly recommended, leading deeper into a forested hillside rife with dirt, rocks, and roots.

Key Features:

• Natural Rock Formations: Offers both visual and technical appeal
• Flat Rock Challenges: Strategically placed to test your balance
• Creek Crossings: Adds an unpredictable element to your ride
• Rugged Rock Downhill: Known as the 'devil's staircase,' a thrilling plunge for the brave
• Scenic Views: From low water bridges to large boulders, plenty of spots to catch your breath and the view

User Experience and Condition: An Unpolished Gem

Though the trail has immense potential, riders have pointed out a few drawbacks. These include issues with drainage, leaf coverage obscuring the path, and a lack of sufficient trail markers. Nevertheless, for the die-hard mountain biker, these are minor inconveniences and even add to the trail's rugged personality.

Who's This Trail For?

• Adrenaline junkies looking for challenging technical sections
• Riders who appreciate a mix of nature's best—from prairie to forest
• Anyone willing to drive 'to the middle of nowhere' for an exceptional ride

Final Thoughts

Though Badger Creek Trail isn't without its flaws, it's the trail's raw and somewhat unforgiving nature that adds to its appeal. Providing an assortment of technical challenges—from rock gardens to gnarly creek beds—each pedal stroke is a commitment to adventure. As far as Kansas trails go, this one scores high for technicality and landscape diversity. Add it to your 'must-ride' list and prepare for a rewarding, albeit challenging, cycling experience.