• 3.2 mile loop
• Concrete Multi-user Path
• Flat
• No Traffic
• Restrooms, Water, and Parking Available
• No Fee

Click on the map for a larger view.

Description

The Loop Trail has been a wonderful addition addition to Boomer Lake Park.

The city park is in north Stillwater bounded by Lakeview Road, Airport Road, Washington Street, and Husband Street and is open year around. There is no fee to use the park. Parking is available off Husband Street or the park road along the west side of the lake. There are two park restrooms, one on the west side of the lake and another on the east side. Both buildings have water fountains. The restrooms are closed during cold weather to keep pipes from freezing. The park has picnic shelters on both sides of Boomer Lake.

The Boomer Lake Trail is a multi-user concrete path that attracts lots of people year around. It has a center line painted on it to encourage all users to keep right. So far, many different users have peacefully used the trail. These include walkers, joggers, baby strollers, roller blade users, and bicyclists.

Bicyclists are likely the fastest users of the trail and should take care not to upset others. Bicyclists should keep right, except to pass. When passing, slow down and call out "on your left" so not to startle anyone. Always assume children, dogs, and distracted walkers will suddenly step out in front of you, so control your speed and be prepared to stop.

The trail is an excellent place to learn bicycle handling skills without the worry of car traffic. Lots of kids on bicycles with training wheels ride on the path on summer evenings. This is a great time for parents to begin training their children about the "rules of the road." If these kids learn that bicycles are just another vehicle then maybe they will be more willing to share the road when they get their drivers licenses.

The trail is not just for kids. Many adults have gained confidence by first bicycling the Boomer Trail. It is useful for developing both bike handling confidence and building fitness. Time spent doing circuits around the lake will help prepare you for longer rides on the streets and roads around Stillwater.