The Eagle Rock Mountain Bike Trail is situated east and north of the spillway below the dam at the Elk City Reservoir which is located about 6 miles northwest of Independence, Kansas on paved county roads. The easiest route to Elk City State Park, the dam, and the trailheads is to stay on US Highway 75 to the west side of Independence and turn north on County Road 3525 (locally referred to as Peter Pan Road) which is next to the Super 8 motel. Travel to the north for approximately three miles, and turn left (west) on County Road 4800. Continue west for approximately four miles. This will take you past the entrance to Elk City State Park, around the hill and down to the dam and trailheads.

There are two trailheads. One is located at the top of the dam at its east end, and the other one is located near the parking lot next to the spillway below the dam. There is ample parking for large groups, and campsites are available adjacent to the spillway in the Corps of Engineers campground. There are also excellent campground facilities at Elk City State Park, which is located about two miles south of the first trailhead sign on County Road 4800. Trail riders will see the entrance to the park on their left as they head up the hill toward the dam and trailheads.

For detailed information visit: http://www.indyschools.com/rshire/ (This is the bike trail's own website.)

****Important note: During prolonged periods of wet weather the bike trail will be temporarily closed due to heavy releases of water from the reservoir or due to slick and muddy conditions on the trail. Riders living away from the Independence area would be well advised to contact Elk City State Park ahead of time to determine if the trail is open and/or the current condition of the trail. The phone number at the park office is: (620)-331-6295.

The trailhead for the Elk River Hiking Trail can be found using the directions above.  It is a simple matter of proceeding on across the dam and down the hill turning left where the road branches and head west.  The trailhead is located directly across the road from the old Corps project office which is readily visible at the   intersection of the northbound and westbound roads

[The trailheads for two shorter trails are located inside Elk City State Park.  You will also see a Corps sign directing you toward the Memorial Overlook Trail just before you head down the hill toward the lake and the dam.]

Elk City Trail Coordinator:

***If you need bike repairs, parts or accessories Thompson's Bike and Sport located at 1903 North Penn(Highway 75 north) carries a full line of parts and accessories, provides excellent service, and can usually have you back on the trail in a short period of time.