Barr had only one real trail but it was a very scenic and long trail. It wraps around the lake 8 miles by my count not the posted 9 every bend was a new view on the parks wildlife and vegetation. It really was like being in several different climates at once leaving you feeling excited but somehow peaceful at the same time. The only black mark on my trip was an uncomfortable encounter with Barr Lake?s version of ?Park Police?. Their term not mine! My tranquil walk/jog across the dam was rudely interrupted by thick clouds of dust and horrible grinding engine sounds rising from a road beside my path, Barr Lake does not allow cars or trucks on its trek, so I went on and made a mental note to stop and report the episode on my way out. I was nearing the edge of the dam where my trail connects to the side rode without a thought of seeing the vehicles that had made such a racket over 10 minutes past, and there blocking my trail sat a four wheel motorbike and a golf cart with large off road wheels! I was very angry to begin with but then I realized these were rangers so I decided to keep my opinions about noise to my self especially after seeing the size of one of the rangers. One hulk accompanied by a little boy side kick smirking at me the entire time and whispering in a radio like I was on some cheesy cop show. Before I could get the heck outta there I was given the third degree about everything from day passes (like I could show them a pass that has to STAY in my car) to fishing licenses (where they thought I could have hidden a fishing pole makes me shudder lol; I was carrying nothing but a bottle of water and a small pack). I have a sense of humor just as good maybe better than the next guys but it really was infuriating at the time and now incredibly laughable. To close; barr lake is great but the in park heat makes a wonderful day misery.
Pros: Bird Lovers Paradise,Beautiful, Friendly Staff at hut & Nature Center
Cons: Strange Rangers, Less than par bathroom facilities the smell was indescribable
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