Before we start, a big shoutout to the Maginot family for sending us photos from their hike at Little Cedar Mountain last weekend. You can scroll down to see them, and in case you missed last week’s recommendation, here’s some more information on it.
OK, let’s get to it. Today we are highlighting two loop trails that hikers recommend combining into one for better views.
Barkeater-Can’t Hardly Trail
- Type: Loop
- Distance: About 5.5 miles
- Difficulty: Easy-Moderate
- Time: 3-4 hours
- Drive Time from Downtown: 35 minutes
- Dog Friendly: Yes
- Highlights: Serene creek, well-marked, can make it your own adventure
- Directions and more information from AllTrails
Cloudland Canyon State Park is typically not my first thought when I think of trails less traveled, but a combination of Barkeater and Can’t Hardly trails at the Ascalon Road trailhead will give you a nice hike without the typical crowds that can be found on the West Rim Loop and Waterfalls trails.
AllTrails describes it as a “lightly trafficked” loop, and for comparison, Barkeater and Can’t Hardly trails have a combined 154 reviews on the popular trail review site vs. the 1,718 reviews given for West Rim Loop Trail.
One thing to note about this trail is that it is known for mountain bikers, so you may run into a few of those depending on when you go. Many hikers suggest starting on the Barkeater loop and instead of taking the Cloudland Canyon Connector Trail back to the parking lot (mostly a gravel road), opt to take the Can’t Hardly Trail – that is where you will see the best views, a creek and some good picnicking spots.
Jason J. said, “Decent walk, do yourself a favor and take the Can’t Hardly Trail back to the Ascalon Trailhead. Skip the CCT unless you prefer gravel roads and traffic to a serene creek. Doing that easily takes this from a 3 star to a 4 star.”
Nancy H. said, “A great 5.5 mile hike with well maintained trail and bridges. I took the advice to pick up I Can’t Hardly on the way back and it’s the best part of the hike. Will be back in the spring for the flowers.”
If you opt to just do the Can’t Hardly Loop, then you are looking at just a 3.4-mile hike.
So get out and let us know how you like it, and remember to send us photos at editor@getoutchatt.com for us to feature in next week’s newsletter or send us ideas of future trails you think we should cover.
Happy Trails!
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