Eagle View Trail ready for use

The Eagle View Trail at Kaw Lake is ready for spring and summer mountain biking and hiking.

20 volunteers gathered on Sunday morning to clear the trail.

Volunteers from as far away as Oklahoma City, took weed eater, lopper and rakes to clean-up the trail under the guidance of Roy Pemperton and Ponca City Mountain Bike Society.

The group worked in two directions clearing close to four miles of trails.

Pemperton said they intend to continue to maintain the trail.

For individuals wanting to hike or bike the trail, the easiest entry point is near the Osage Cove campground and there is plenty of parking.

Here the native grassland meets the oak and hickory forest of the Cross timbers Eco-system.

The trail is now easy to follow and for several miles parallels a barb-wire fence line.

Hikers taking the short four-mile loop can do so at a leisurely pace that takes about two hours and is an easy hike for all ages.

Apparel depends upon the time of year, but long pants and good hiking shoes are recommended all year around.

The trail can be enjoyed all year with the exception of deer gun and primitive firearms seasons, so check the notice at the trail head to be sure it’s safe.

All types of wildlife can be seen on the trail including deer, rabbits and coyotes.

Watch for snakes beneath the rocks around the limestone cliffs in the spring and summer.

In the winter, you may even spot a wintering bald eagle.

Also, watch out for geese and turkeys.

Overnight camping facilities are available at nearby Kaw Lake’s Osage Cove campground for $18 a night.

Reservations can be made by contacting the National Reservation Service at 877-444-6777 or online here .

There is no charge for use of trails.

If you are interested in helping with the maintenance of these trails contact Pemberton at 580-716-4331 or email him at [email protected].

Additional information about the Kaw Lake area can be found here or by calling the Kaw Lake Association at 580-762-9494 or 877-671-6985.