Inspiration Point Hike

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Lake · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This trail starts from a parking area near some RV camping spots along the shore of Watonga Lake. This hike begins on Lake Loop Trail as a fairly unused off-road vehicle trail for park use. The trail is washed out in some places with deep ruts. Trail then narrows to a singletrack that follows the lake shore around the hills nearby.

The park is also host to a resort and golf course with a restaurant on site.

This hike starts from a parking area near some RV camping spots along the shore of Watonga Lake. The Lake Loop Trail begins as a fairly unused off-road vehicle trail for park use. The trail is washed-out in some places with deep ruts. Once past the lake, at the intersection with the Mesa Loop Trail, quickly head up a steep incline directly to the top of Inspiration Point.

The climb consists of two short but challenging climbs with plenty of foot and hand holds. At the first climb, you can take the Mesa Loop Trail in either direction to reach the top of Inspiration Point, if climbing is not desired.

After enjoying the view from the point head back down on the Mesa Loop Trail. There are several shady areas on the way down. After about a mile and a quarter, drop down to the Lakeshore Loop that follows the shore of Watonga Lake. Watch for snakes and other wildlife, native to this habitat. Once back at the corner of the lake, follow the Lake Loop Trail back around Watonga Lake to the parking area.

Snakes are known to be active in the area. There is a grove of cedar trees which snakes love as well as many rocky areas.