Kelly Lake lies nestled in a glacially carved basin between rugged ridges and steep sided cliffs of State Forest State Park. The trail to the lake follows both old logging roads and narrow footpaths that climb through the forest and open meadows and across two creek drainages of the Canadian River. The last section of the trail follows Kelly Creek as it winds through the high alpine valley, filled with blooming wildflowers, to Kelly Lake. This can be done as a long day hike, but best enjoyed as a multi-day trip. Campfires are not permitted, bring a stove instead.