Goddard-McKeever Trail

The Goddard‑McKeever Trail begins at the Boat Launch #1 parking area near the southern shoreline of Lake Wilhelm in Maurice K. Goddard State Park. From the trailhead, the route heads south into rolling forested terrain, paralleling the John C. Oliver Multi‑Purpose Trail for much of the way. It climbs gradually through a mix of ridges and shallow drainages, following a natural surface path that leads toward the McKeever Environmental Learning Center. With the center currently closed to the public, most hikers retrace their steps to return before the final approach. Additional informal trail access points can be found along the southern lakeshore between Irish Ridge Road and the Lake Wilhelm Dam Picnic Area. The trail includes smooth segments as well as rough, root-covered sections with occasional short climbs. Overgrowth and muddy conditions are common in late summer, and trail markings can be limited—bring a GPS or map to stay on track. While close to park infrastructure near the start, the trail quickly enters quiet, wooded terrain with scattered wetland views and a secluded feel. This moderate route offers a more rugged alternative to the nearby paved path, ideal for hikers and trail runners exploring the backcountry edges of Goddard State Park.