Are dogs allowed on Cooley Lake Conservation Area?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Cooley Lake Conservation Area but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Cooley Lake Conservation Area?

No, Cooley Lake Conservation Area does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Cooley Lake Conservation Area?

Cooley Lake Conservation Area is rated moderate. It is 3.1 miles long with 436 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Missouri trail conditions

ModerateOut and Back

Missouri

Cooley Lake Conservation Area

Excelsior Springs, Missouri

3.1 mi

Distance

436 ft

Elev. Gain

1h 10m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

The trail runs along a ridge overlooking the Missouri River Valley. The lookout tower at the top of the ridge gives you a good view of the Missouri River Valley. There are several trails leading from the lake up the ridge line to the observation tower. The trail is a loop and you end up back where you started. The trail is difficult to follow.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:221 ft

Max:278 ft

133 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.