The trailhead is inconspicuously marked by a small totem of stones and can be hard to spot. To find it, head off HWY 400 between HWY 99 and HWY 75. Follow signs for Fall River State Park and navigate through Lake Road and Badger Creek Road until you spot a large low water bridge. The trailhead is about 1/8 mile before this bridge on the right.
Commencing at the open prairie, the trail takes riders through a blend of tall grass and into an encompassing forest. By the half-mile mark, a fork presents itself. The trail on the right is highly recommended, leading deeper into a forested hillside rife with dirt, rocks, and roots.
Though the trail has immense potential, riders have pointed out a few drawbacks. These include issues with drainage, leaf coverage obscuring the path, and a lack of sufficient trail markers. Nevertheless, for the die-hard mountain biker, these are minor inconveniences and even add to the trail's rugged personality.
Though Badger Creek Trail isn't without its flaws, it's the trail's raw and somewhat unforgiving nature that adds to its appeal. Providing an assortment of technical challenges—from rock gardens to gnarly creek beds—each pedal stroke is a commitment to adventure. As far as Kansas trails go, this one scores high for technicality and landscape diversity. Add it to your 'must-ride' list and prepare for a rewarding, albeit challenging, cycling experience.