Whether you're a die-hard nature seeker, or just enjoy the outdoors, visit Mill Creek Park's newly established walking trails. Located throughout Mill Creek are four walking trails for exploring nature and observing natural wildlife.
Deer Run Trail
Located on the north east corner of the campground, Deer Run Trail winds approximately 1/2 mile through Dogwood, Oak, Sugar Maple, Red Bud and Sassafras trees. As you study the beauty of the scenery, be sure to take notice of the numerous wild flowers and ground cover the trail has to offer. The wildlife is also abundant on Deer Run Trail. While exploring the remarkable splendor of nature you may catch a glimpse of Red and Grey Squirrels, Chipmunks, a variety of different species of birds and occasionally...you guessed it!...Deer!! As always, beautiful Mill Creek Lake can be viewed from various points on the trail, which is classified as "Easy Walking".
Lake View Trail
Branching off from the Deer Run Trail, Lake View Trail extends over a mile of breathtaking lake views for nature-lovers. In the fall, the appearance of Sugar Maple Groves is spectacular. Like Deer Run Trail, this trail will enlighten nature seekers with its foliage and wildlife. Keep your eyes to the sky and you may catch sight of a Red Tail Hawk or even a Sparrow Hawk gliding overhead. Baltimore Orioles have been recently spotted in the park so be sure to bring your binoculars for the hike! Classified as "Easy Walking", Lake View Trail will provide satisfaction to any explorer.
Beaver Trail
Located at the south end of the park adjacent to one of three picnic shelters, this 1/2 to 3/4 mile trail displays stunning plant life in the form of Indian Turnips, Solomon's Seal, Dutchman's Britches, Raspberries, Blackberries, Wild Hyacinth, Sweet Williams, Jack in the Pulpit, Cowslips and an occasional Mullein. While trekking back to nature on this incredible trail check out the view of "Old Beaver Lodge". Classified as a "Short Moderate Walk", you'll leave this trail wanting to continue your exploration!
Rattlesnake Trail
With 2.7 miles completed and plans for 1.25 mile yet to be developed, this trail will intrigue the young and old with the lavish ground covering and habitation of nature. Neighboring Beaver Trail, Rattlesnake Trail has been classified a "Tougher, Longer Walk" with more than a few Beech, Hickory, Ironwood, Walnut, and Aspen tees for viewing. Surrounded by abundant Sassafras Groves, let yourself go and enjoy the Fern Hollows and Bittersweet just waiting to be revealed. If wildlife is your craving, Pileated Woodpeckers, Wild Turkeys, Owls, Wood Cocks, Red Fox, and occasionally Rabbits have all been famous for making appearances on the trails. The most rewarding highlight of Mill Creek Park has been the seasonal display of the Bald Eagle and Ospreys that have enchanted our visitors. As with all of the Nature Trails at Mill Creek Park, Beaver Cuttings can be spotted throughout your walk.
With wildlife and nature that stretch over 2,600 acres of Mill Creek Park, fun for all ages can be found as far as the eye can see.
There are future plans for a Handicap Accessible platform that will be positioned high above the lake for viewing the numerous lake activities! This is just one of the goals for Mill Creek's nature trails.
