North Sterling has a approximately 6.5 miles of trails for hikers of all ages to enjoy. Hikers are reminded to be beware of rattlesnakes and keep pets on a 6 foot maximum leash. Horses and mountain bikes are allowed on the trails. Many trails offer access to fishing and hunting areas as well as access between day use areas.
Trail Descriptions
1 - Overlook Loop Trail
Includes :Shooting Star Trail, Red Fox Trail, Sunset Point Trail
Permitted uses [A]: Hike, Bike, Horse, Snowshoe*, Cross Country Ski*
Miles paved: 0
Miles non-paved: 0.7
Total distance: 0.7
Usage: Low
Degree of difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 40 Ft
ADA accessible: Yes
Pets: On Leash
Comments: Starting at the Inlet Grove Campground, this short hike gives the visitor a beautiful view of the reservoir, including excellent views of the sunset. This is an excellent hike for children or anyone who wants a short hike and a big view.
2 - Sunset Cove Trail
Permitted uses [B] : Hike, Bike, Horse, Snowshoe*, Cross Country Ski*
Miles paved: 0
Miles non-paved: 0.1
Total distance: 0.1
Usage: Low
Degree of difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 38 Ft
ADA accessible: No
Pets: On Leash
Comments: Short and Steep trail between the Sunset Cove Parking Lot and the Sunset Point Star Gazing Area.
3 - Swim Beach Trail
Permitted uses [A]: Hike, Bike, Horse, Snowshoe*, Cross Country Ski*
Miles paved: 0
Miles non-paved: 0.6
Total distance: 0.6
Usage: Low
Degree of difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 15 Ft
ADA accessible: Yes
Pets: On Leash
Comments: Shoreline fishing access and connection trail from the Sunset Cove day use area to the Swim Beach day use area.
4 - Chimney View Trail
Permitted uses [A]: Hike, Bike, Horse, Snowshoe*, Cross Country Ski*
Miles paved: 0
Miles non-paved: 0.1
Total distance: 0.1
Usage: Low
Degree of difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 35 Ft
ADA accessible: Yes
Pets: On Leash
Comments: Quick connection from the Chimney View Campground to the Swim Beach day use area
5 - Amphitheater Trail
Permitted uses [A]: Hike, Bike, Horse, Snowshoe*, Cross Country Ski*
Miles paved: 0
Miles non-paved: 0.1
Total distance: 0.1
Usage: Low
Degree of difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 6 Ft
ADA accessible: Yes
Pets: On Leash
Comments: Quick Connection from the Inlet Grove Campground/ Amphitheater to the South Camper Services Building
6 - South Shoreline Trail
Permitted uses [A]: Hike, Bike, Horse, Snowshoe*, Cross Country Ski*
Miles paved: 0
Miles non-paved: 3.6
Total distance: 3.6
Usage: Low
Degree of difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 39 Ft
ADA accessible: Yes
Pets: On Leash
Comments: Our longest trail with the highest chance of wildlife encounters. Owls, Eagles, Deer, Porcupines, Badgers, Bobcats, and Turkeys are often seen along this trail. This trail also provides access for hunting and fishing.
7 - Old Dam Trail
Permitted uses [A]: Hike, Bike, Horse, Snowshoe*, Cross Country Ski*
Miles paved: 0
Miles non-paved: 1.1
Total distance: 1.1
Usage: Low
Degree of difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 20 Ft
ADA accessible: Yes
Pets: On Leash
Comments: This trail provides a access to fishing as well as great views of the surrounding landscape.
8 - Balanced Rock Trail
Permitted uses [A]: Hike, Bike, Horse, Snowshoe*, Cross Country Ski*
Miles paved: 0
Miles non-paved: 0.1
Total distance: 0.1
Usage: Low
Degree of difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 30 Ft
ADA accessible: Yes
Pets: On Leash
Comments: Trail leading to the one of the highest points on the park. The Balanced Rock formation, offering spectacular views of the surrounding area. Originally called Point of Rocks, the Reservoir was originally named for this formation as "Point of Rocks Reservoir." The fossil jawbone of a Brontothere found on the park can be viewed in a large boulder at the trailhead near an interpretive sign. .
*While Snowshoeing and Cross Country Skiing are permitted on trail, snow is unlikely to accumulate enough to utilize the trail for snow sports.
