Crooked Stick Trail

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Spring · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The name Crooked Stick is certainly evident in its twisty sections, however, this trail still moves along quite nicely. Make sure to stay on the outside if you want to hike the whole thing. In this counter-clockwise direction, there are two places earlier on where you have to stay to the right to avoid taking an early exit. After Graveyard Hill, you'll hang left at a couple of splits to avoid spitting out of the circle early. The trail is well-marked though, so just take note of the map and pay attention to the signs. Signs that point towards parking lot will spit you out early. Graveyard Hill is the toughest climb, but there are a couple of bypasses that allow you to miss it if you want. Interesting fact, there's an old graveyard back there, it's not just named Graveyard Hill because it puts you in the graveyard. The main trail turns left at the top of the hill, but if you go straight you can find it.

I've spotted deer, turtles, and some black snakes on this trail, never any bad encounters.