Centerville Lake via Golf Course Loop

This trail is considered moderate, primarily due to its length of approximately 15.4 km (9.6 miles). The terrain is mostly paved and very flat, with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for various fitness levels. You'll walk through wooded areas, over boardwalks in wetlands, and along sections that offer picturesque views of Centerville Lake.

Hikers can expect to complete this loop in about 3 hours and 55 minutes, though this can vary depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! You are welcome to bring your dog, but please ensure they are kept on a leash at all times to respect other users and local wildlife.

The best time to hike the Centerville Lake via Golf Course Loop is during the spring, summer, and fall months. The trail is not open for hiking during the winter. Summer offers lush greenery and wildflowers, but be prepared for mosquitoes, which can be present in the wetland areas.

The trail is located within the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve. Generally, regional parks in this area may have vehicle entry fees, but specific hiking permits for this trail are typically not required. It's always a good idea to check the park's official website for the most current information on fees and regulations before your visit.

While specific parking details for this exact loop aren't provided, the trail is part of the larger Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve. Look for designated parking areas within the park that provide access to the various trailheads, particularly those near Centerville Lake.

The route offers diverse scenery, including wooded sections with deciduous trees and occasional wildflowers, as well as boardwalks over wetland areas. A significant portion of the trail encircles Centerville Lake, providing numerous scenic lake views. You might also spot various birds and other wildlife typical of a lake and wetland environment.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll find yourself on parts of the Rice Creek North Regional Trail, Main Street Trail, Edgerton Ave Bikeway, Rio's Loop, and Lake Point Singletrack as you complete the loop.

A unique feature of this loop is its blend of natural and developed environments. The trail passes directly through the Chomonix Golf Course and includes a brief walk on a residential street before rejoining the more natural sections. There are also benches strategically placed around Centerville Lake for resting and enjoying the views.

Given its paved, flat terrain and moderate difficulty (primarily due to length), the trail can be suitable for families looking for a longer, less strenuous outing. However, consider the 15.4 km (9.6 miles) distance when planning with younger children. It's also a shared-use path, so be mindful of bikers.

For this relatively long but flat trail, essential items include plenty of water, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection. Given the presence of wetlands, especially in summer, insect repellent is highly recommended. If you plan to stop and enjoy the lake views, a snack or picnic could be a nice addition.