Hiking this route along the levee road and edges of an island of Horseshoe Lake provides some of the best birdwatching opportunity in all of Illinois. The trail travels along the shores of the lake through thick wooded areas home to abundant wildlife and birdlife all year long. The trail is also used by bicyclists so watch out for others along the route. The trail may be closed during hunting season so check before setting out. The conservation area also offers picnicing, camping, fishing, and boating on the lake.