The Dike Hiking Trail is a 1 mile circle trail around the shoreline of Hartman Lake. The trail is mostly flat with only a few small hills, and is part gravel and part paved (the .3 mile part that is paved is also shared with bicycles). (For a more challenging lake hike, check out the Deer Path Trail). This trail also crosses the small dike between Mid Lake and Hartman Lakes, hence the name.
Sights:
The trail crosses over the dam at the end of Hartman Lake, and there’s a small waterfall down the dam to Hartman Creek, which can be viewed from a lower bridge crossing the creek. Around the north side of the lake, there is water on both sides of the trail, allowing for lots of animal sightings, especially turtles, fish, and birds. There are also many views of the lake, and during autumn, the changing colors. The trail crosses the beach and playground area, making a nice stop. During the summer, a concession stand is open on the beach.
Winter Use:
The southern part of the trail (the paved and beach part of the trail) are dedicated cross-country ski trails leading out to the Pope Lake loop.
Getting to the Trail:
There are two parking lots that allow easy access to the trail. The first one is located by the octagon shelter – if you’re coming from the park office, turn left at the T intersection and it’s the first parking lot on your left. The second parking area is the beach parking area, and the trail can be found next to the beach or by following the trail out of the north side of the parking lot.
Trail Info:
Distance: 1 mile circle trail
Difficulty: Easy