I really love this moderate hike. Starting at the Scott Starling Nature Sanctuary on Wilson road, this hike loops 2.5 miles through the north end of the west side of Eagle Creek. With 188′ from the highest to the lowest point this hike isn’t too strenuous, but a few of the ascents and descents are steep. You’ll often have the trails to yourself on the west side of Eagle Creek, which is rare in the more popular (and more accessible) east side of the park.
From the Scott Starling Nature Sanctuary you’ll walk through a bit of Eagle’s Crest (an outdoor event center) and then head east descending down to the lake’s edge and the old Dandy Trail. Before Eagle Creek was dammed and flooded, Dandy Trail ran through this area providing access to the homes nearby.
The trails on this hike are well-walked and fairly easy to follow. You’ll have to watch for the trail head at the edge of the field in Eagle’s Crest, it’s unmarked but well walked. The GPS track will lead you to it.
There is also a right turn off of Dandy Trail that you’ll need to watch for. There is an an old fence at the corner and the trail leads up and to the right. Keep an eye open for this, but again, the GPS track will let you know about where you need to turn.
Facilities: There might be an outhouse at Eagle’s Crest, but that would be it.
Park entrance fee: None for the west side of the park.
Trail map (although the trails on the west side aren’t marked on this map): EAGLECREEKPARKNORTH_2010.pdf
I hope you enjoy this hike, it’s one of my favorites. If you’ve walked it, leave a comment!