Lakeside Trail

Great trail for young children! Easy and well maintained. Beautiful area with a lovely lake.

Very nice hike...very easy but watch for those snakes...saw two in just the short walk

Nice easy trail with some nice views. Well marked and well maintained. There are also some information signs along the trail.

The trail follows very closely to the lake yielding excellent views on the trail. This is an easy trail built mainly for walking. Very well kept and traveled.

Easy walk around the lake. Really short, we do it a couple times when we go. Half of it is really shady, near the campsites. Not quiet by any means, usually crowded, no incline, but that doesn't mean that it's bad. Better to rent a boat and go out on the lake.

Easy mostly gravel trail. Our dog enjoyed herself.

If you are looking for a good trail for the family, then this is the trail for you. The trail encircles lake at Cowans Gap State Park. The trail is mostly flat but has some slight elevation change. It almost seems like two different trails. The trail on the beach side is a little more active. The trail in this area is better maintained. The opposite side of the lake is used a little less. The trail surface is a little rough in some areas, but still negotiable for the family. The trail stays in pretty good condition even after a rain with minimal muddy spots (especially for a lake side trail). The trail can be accessed in about four or five different locations with little extra walking. Bring your camera because there are some beautiful views along the way and you never know what you might see. The park also offers plenty of other activities for after the hike.