Girl Scout Trail

Dogs Leashed

E-Bikes Unknown

This trail gets its name from the former Girl Scout camp that occupied the site many years ago. Some locals call it Girls Scout Camp Trail. It is a newer trail for Saint Joseph and was a purpose built mountain bike trail. That is a major part of the fun factor.

Access is made via the paved Urban Trail System. Parking is somewhat limited at the moment.

It's mostly hardpack. There are a few rocky bits but nothing that requires a lot of tech skills. Even newbies can simply pick their line and just roll it.

Between the hikers, runners, and bikers this trail gets more combined use than others in the area. Bikers, please remember to yield! Because of the high amount of activity it is important to observe that this is a directional trail with several blind corners.

The beauty of Girl Scout Trail lies not in great views or big features but the great layout. A lot of fun is packed into a tight spot and only in winter is it apparent how close one is to the next bit of trail. Even though there are some tight turns, there is a lot of flow. As one's abilities and skill improve, the trail gets faster and faster.

There are only a couple real climbs along with a few smaller uphills but nothing too long or too difficult.

The builders were very fond of logs across the trail to hop over. There is also one small log drop. Please don't remove them or pile dirt in front of them. Learn to bunny hop or simply rebound manual to clear your chainrings.

Oh, about the log drop. It's small and simple enough, however, it's in a really tight right turn. Be sure to swing it wide to keep your speed up for clearance. Just a few yards past is a small log pile rollover/jump. It's one of the smallest in Saint Joseph but big to a kid. It's great for the kiddos to learn on and there is a bypass if they choose not to hit it.

The last half of the trail holds moisture a bit more than the first half. If it's been wet keep that in mind.

In 2014, a fun little jump line was added. There is a bypass if you're riding for a fast time. The jumps were built so that ANYONE at ANY skill level can try. It's a couple small rollers into a step-up followed by two more small rollers. It's easily rolled over by the novice rider and a fun hit for those with more skills.

This trail is great to combine with the Brownie Trail or the Corby trails via the paved urban path or the parkway. Also, close by is the best trail in Saint Joseph, Krug Park, just to the west.