Lake Jacomo: Rock Ledges Loop Trails
Lake Jacomo Trail System, Rock Ledges Loop Trails, Lee’s Summit, Mo., Jackson County.
Rock Ledges Loop Trails
Lake Jacomo’s Rock Ledges Loop Trails follow a lake peninsula on the west side of the reservoir. The scenery is spectacular as the trail winds in and out of limestone boulders, rocky shelves and cliffs. Numerous sentinel-like rock formations appear throughout the landscape. In addition, the Ledges Loops provide views of the lake and a broad inlet valley. The entire length of both trails is forested. There are two trails: lower and upper, plus an extension into a ravine. The lower trail sticks closer to the lakeshore while the upper follows rocky ridgetops. Both trails are in view of each other for most of their lengths. There are also several places to switch from one trail to another.
Length Upper Ledges Loop = 1 mile; Ledges Loop = 2.5 miles; Ledges Extension = 1 mile.
Condition These trails are well worn, well-marked dirt paths maintained by the Urban Trail Co. They are publicly owned and privately maintained. These single-track trails are challenging and rigorous with many elevation changes and plenty of rocky steps. Trail rules mandate staying off the trail when it’s muddy. Check the Urban Trail Co. website for closure updates.
Kid Friendly? This is a well-marked but rough path impassable for strollers. Children will need to walk or be carried. Children (and adults) will also need to yield to passing mountain bikers.
Address and getting there Look for the sign on Beach Road that says “Organized Youth Group Campground.” The closest coordinate is Lake Jacomo Shelter 14, Lee’s Summit, Mo., 64086. Shelter 14 is immediately south of the trail head. To reach the trail head, turn off of Beach Road at the Organized Youth Group Campground sign and drive to the end of the gravel road, where you will find a locked yellow gate. Park and walk past the gate and you’ll encounter access signs where the trail crosses the gravel road. Note: This is not the large campground open to motor homes and trailers that is more prominently known.
Pets Yes, on a leash. Read the regulations here.
Bikes Suitable for mountain bikes.
