A multi-surface trail system generally consists of both hard surface greenways and soft surface trails. These two-way off-road systems can be used for numerous forms of recreation such as walking, biking, hiking, jogging, running, skating, as well as wheelchair accessible.  One of the biggest benefits of a multi-surface trails system is they are a safe connection corridor to businesses, cultural attractions, parks, and other recreation sites.  Multi-surface trails are often a partnership between public and private entities and public and private land.  The surface can vary from paved to asphalt to gravel to natural surfaces.  They are designed to be used by all ages and for all skill levels.

Trails and greenways are an excellent draw for families and tourists.  Studies show availability of trails and greenways impact people’s decision on where to vacation, how long they stay and whether they will return.  They are proven to increase surrounding property values, reduce health care costs for the community, as well as revitalize and grow businesses near trails

The total cost to build the multi-surface trail system will depend on its design and fund raising efforts. The overall plan is set to be complete in stages. You can find the full plan with cost estimates here Magic Dragon Trails Master Plan. In 2022, we completed The Magic Dragon Skills Park and a half mile of single track natural surface trail located adjacent to the Tri-County YMCA. The Skills Park and Trail is open to the public free of charge. This phase of the project cost just under $25,000. We are anticipating to break ground in 2025 on the North Duenke Recreational Area Estimated to cost of $800,000.

Magic Dragon Trails will be funded through a combination of community contributions, grants, and land use agreements. Just like many successful trail systems across the country, we’re building this as a public and private partnership.

The Community Foundation of the Lake is leading the way—seeking monetary, land, and in-kind donations, as well as applying for local, state, and federal grants. But the heart of this project is our community’s support. Every donation, volunteer hour, or piece of land offered helps turn this vision into reality.

Want to help build these trails? Support Magic Dragon Trails Today.

We’re making progress right now! In Fall 2025, we’re partnering with the City of Osage Beach to build approximately two miles of natural surface trails near Osage Beach City Park, which already features a popular dog park.

We’re also preparing to break ground on the new Duenke Family Trail, pending final city permits. Our timeline for additional trails depends on funding and city approvals, but every step forward brings us closer to a complete trail system for everyone to enjoy.

Communities across the U.S. benefit annually from building trail systems to boost tourism. A recent study conducted about bicycling in Northwest Arkansas found their multi-surface trails drew about 90,000 – 150,000 out-of-state visitors to the area spending $27 million annually. Osage Beach and the Lake area are perfectly suited for a year-round trail system due to our topography and moderate climate. Our rocky soil drains well allowing trails to be used very quickly following rain or snow compared with most parts of the country. The moderate climate is also perfect for year-round usage compared to traditional mountain areas where trails are usually only open for use June through September. Bikers, hikers, and trail runners want hills and we have them and the natural beauty of rock features, bluffs, and lake views are just an added bonus.

The current infrastructure at the Lake meets the needs to serve the additional tourists the trail system will bring to the area in typical “off-season” times. The lodging, restaurants, and entertainment venues visitors want and need, are already here, putting the Lake way ahead of other communities vying for funding dollars.

The Lake area will be able to leverage a trail system to entice new business development. Companies often chose to locate/relocate to communities with numerous amenities as it allows them to attract and retain high-level workers. In the current global economy, where businesses and workers can literally locate anywhere, trails can be a huge magnet.

Magic Dragon Trails began as an initiative of the Community Foundation of the Lake, focused on creating economic and health benefits for our community. Today, it’s guided by a dedicated Magic Dragon Trails committee made up of avid hikers, bikers, and runners, along with local business owners who bring experience in trail building, maintenance, and financial management.

This diverse leadership team is passionate about creating high-quality trails for everyone at Lake of the Ozarks.

Want to get involved? We’re looking for new board members, people with grant-writing experience, and anyone passionate about supporting or helping lead this project. If that’s you, reach out to us!

Magic Dragon Trails will benefit everyone who loves the outdoors—from hikers and bikers to families looking for a safe place to enjoy nature. But the impact goes far beyond recreation.

Trails encourage healthier lifestyles, providing free, accessible places for exercise and stress relief.

A 2018 study found that properties within a quarter-mile of a trail increased in value by just over $6,000 on average. Trails also generate major public health benefits—Northwest Arkansas trails alone were credited with $137 million in reduced health care costs.

Beyond physical health and property values, Magic Dragon Trails will attract visitors, strengthen local businesses, and invest in our community’s overall well-being and economic future.

Yes. The original trail design for Magic Dragon Trails was created by Progressive Trail Design in collaboration with Laneshift. We also work closely with City and State Park staff, as well as local community leaders and developers, to ensure the trails are thoughtfully designed and sustainably built.

And we’re always open to new ideas, feedback, and collaboration. If you have thoughts or want to get involved, reach out to us here—we’d love to hear from you.

Protecting the natural environment is a core value of Magic Dragon Trails. Our goal is to build sustainable trails that have minimal impact on the land and waterways. Whenever possible, we design trails to flow with the landscape—going around trees instead of cutting through them—so we can showcase the natural beauty of the Lake of the Ozarks region rather than disrupt it.

By following best practices in sustainable trail design and working with experienced trail builders, we’re creating trails that not only provide recreation but also help protect the environment for generations to come.

Currently, our trails are maintained by volunteers and board members who are passionate about keeping them safe, clean, and enjoyable. As the trail system grows, there may be opportunities to hire dedicated maintenance staff or develop formal stewardship programs for year-round care.

We’re also planning for the future: 10% of all funds raised, plus proceeds from merchandise sales, are dedicated to trail maintenance. This ensures we can keep Magic Dragon Trails in great shape for generations to come.

Want to help? Trail maintenance days are a great way to give back—volunteer with us here!

Our original plan is to work with professional trail design and construction firms to ensure that Magic Dragon Trails are safe, sustainable, and built to last. However, we’re also exploring opportunities to partner with experienced local companies who understand our unique terrain.

In addition, some smaller trail sections may be built by community volunteers, providing hands-on opportunities for people who want to be directly involved in creating these trails.