Little Elk Creek Trail
Little Elk Creek Trail is a beautiful trail in the Piedmont area. The trail is 7 miles round trip, follows a creek, and takes you to Dalton Lake at the end if you choose. The trail is easy most of the way, but at times you have to climb over some rock formations. This trail is beautiful any time of the year, and a favorite for kids and pets since it is near the water. The trail splits in 2 about half way in and you can take either the high trail or the low trail. We took the high trail on the way to Dalton Lake and the low trail on the way back which worked out great. There are several side trails if you want to switch back and forth from the high to low trail at any time. Once the trail ends after 3 miles, you just follow the road for about 1/2 mile to reach Dalton Lake on Dalton Lake Rd. It is a nice place to relax, have a lunch, or just take in the pretty view of the lake before you turn around. This trail is especially beautiful in the fall.
Near the beginning of the trail - Open and wide
To get to Little Elk Creek trail head take I-90 to Exit 44. At the stop light head west on Chimney Canyon Rd for a very short distance. Turn right on Sturgis Rd toward Sturgis and then left onto Little Elk Creek Rd. Follow the road till it ends (not too far). Parking is available on site.
Trail takes you nice and close to the creek several times
Beautiful with the sun going down
So many places to play in the river.
The trail splits off here. I recommend taking the lower trail first and the higher trail on the way back, but both work out great.
The higher trail
Unique rock formations
One of many little waterfalls
Nice wide path for walking, or mountain biking.
Really cool part of the trail - Would be great in the summer
Very rocky at times
Trail around Dalton Lake
The road to Dalton Lake when the trail ends - about another 1/2 mile to the lake.
Dalton Lake
Hiking in the winter is just as beautiful but need to be aware of icy conditions on the trail.
River is just gorgeous with ice and snow formations.
Some parts are pretty hard in the winter.
This trail went from icy to slushy to lots of snow.
Parts of the trail go by cliffs and can be scary with the ice.
