Starved Rock State Park is located on the south side of the Illinois River and offers scenic sandstone canyons for exploration and excellent views of the river from high bluffs. The east section of the park explores multiple out-and-back canyons and follows the cliffs on the river to multiple overlook spots. There are multiple trails and parking lots to access the trails allowing hikers to customize a hike of a longer or shorter distance if desired. The trails are very popular, especially during peak season so visiting during the week and off-season may provide a little more solitude. There are sections of trail along exposed cliffs so extra caution is advised.

This section of the North Vermilion River is the most popular for whitewater paddlers as it offers the same great scenery as the other sections of the North Vermilion but a lot more exciting whitewater for experienced paddlers. The river offers lots of diverse scenery including impressive cliffs, interesting rock formations, a side canyon up Matthiessen State Park, and lots of dense wooded terrain. The river offers multiple class II-III rapids, boulder fields, and a dam that requires portaging so the run should only be attempted by qualified paddlers. The safety of running the river is dependent on current water levels so check the gauge at the Lowell Bridge, as levels around 2 are best and anything over 4 is questionable. The take-out and put-in spots for this section of the river can also be a little tricky and strenuous so be prepared for a little challenge at the beginning and the end.

Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge is a large natural area that offers three manmade lakes and lots of hiking trails for exploring the area. The Rocky Bluff Trail is located on the eastern side of Devils Kitchen Lake and travels through dense woodlands and along the shores of the lake where abundant wildlife and great views of the lake can be seen. There is also a scenic waterfall located along the route. The trail can be muddy with lots of debris and tree roots along sections of the path so be cautious and pay attention when hiking.

The Round Bluff Nature Preserve is located in Ferne Clyffe State Park and offers a loop trail that leads through the natural area that offers interesting rock formations, abundant wildlife, and diverse flora and fauna all year long. The protected area only allows hiking on designated trails and all plants and animals are protected within the preserve. The state park also offers picnic areas, campsites, and lots of other hiking trails outside the boundaries of the nature preserve.

Located in the Mississippi River valley, the Little Grand Canyon is a unique and scenic destination where visitors will enjoy hiking through deep canyons and lush ravines that are habitats to abundant wildlife and interesting flora and fauna. The hike is steep along sections including a stairway of sandstone steps that can be slippery. The trail also passes along some high cliffs above sheer canyon walls that provide some impressive views down below but also require some careful footing.

This overlook trail travels through an area known for its interesting geologic history and unique rock formations as it leads along sandstone cliffs that provide excellent views down to the forest terrain below. There are lots of side spur trails off the main trail that lead to good overlook points that are optional but worth the extra mileage. The trail is a good option for hikers of all levels but there may be some exposed areas so pay close attention to younger hikers. The trail is very popular, especially on weekends, and parking may be limited so arrive early or visit during times that might be less crowded.

Located in the Bell Smith Springs Recreation Area, this scenic hike follows multiple trails through a quiet creek in a rugged canyon setting along rocky bluffs with interesting rock formations. The area provides lots of opportunity for viewing beautiful wildflowers and abundant wildlife. The trail does require some stream crossings which can be slippery so be cautious. The trail also follows some steep exposed areas that require paying close attention. There are other connecting trails in the Bell Smith Spring Recreation Area providing hikers with numerous hiking possibilities.

Starting from the small historic town of Galena, this biking route leads through beautiful countryside that offers excellent scenery and lots of steep rolling hills. The ride follows mostly quiet roads through diverse terrain including woodlands, along streams, past farms, and through rural areas with only a few busier sections that require a little more caution. The names of the roads change frequently and get a little confusing so pay close attention in order to stay on track.

Starting from Channahon State Park, this ride follows the I&M Canal Trail for many miles along diverse terrain including woodlands, prairies, marshlands, farmlands, and more providing nice scenery all along the way. The surface of the I&M Canal Trail is well-maintained crushed gravel and the roadway sections of the ride are quiet rural roads making the ride very relaxing and peaceful. This is very little elevation change along the path requiring no climbing. The ride can easily be extended by exploring more of the I&M Canal trail.

This section of the Des Plaines River Trail travels along the northern section of the trail between the Russell Road parking area just south of the Wisconsin/Illinois border to the Kilbourne Road parking area south of Highway 41. The trail follows the path of the Des Plaines River past multiple lakes and ponds, forest preserves, wetland areas, and natural areas that are home to abundant scenery, wildlife, and plantlife. The trail follows mostly flat terrain that is easy to follow making it a good option for riders of all skill levels. The trail is crushed limestone and dirt surface and is multi-use so watch out for other users along the route. The trail can be done as an out-and-back route or one-way route by shuttling vehicles between the many access areas along the trail.

The mountain bike trails in Kickapoo State Park provide some of the best trails and beautiful scenery Illinois has to offer. The network of trails consists of 5 loops that can be combined for a total of 6 miles of riding. This ride utilizes sections of these trails for a loop through the area but there are obviously many more trip options available. The trails provide lots of ups and downs through wooded terrain that add some fun challenge. The ride also provides some nice scenery as it travels over small creeks and passes by a lake. The trails are well-marked and contain arrows showing recommended direction of travel. Checking out the trail map of the area is advisable to get a good concept of how all the trails can connect.

This rails-to-trails route is one of the best in Illinois for road biking as it travels near a large scenic river, against big bluffs, and offers excellent wildlife and plantlife along the route. Starting from Pere Marquette State Park, the trail follows the Illinois River to its confluence with the Mississippi River and onward through multiple small towns and wildlife refuge areas that are home to abundant wildlife, especially eagles during the winter. Sections of the ride merge with the scenic byway that is known for river scenery on one side and large rock bluffs on the other. The trail ends at Piasa Park where riders can learn about the legend of the Piasa Bird for which the park is named. The ride can be done as a longer out-and-back or a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles between the two trailheads. The route is all asphalt path and paved roadway with some hills, especially in the first 3 miles, that add some challenge to the ride.

The section of the Middle Fork of the South Vermilion River between Kinney's Ford and Kickapoo State Park is one of the most popular paddling sites in all of Illinois due to its easy access, beautiful scenery, and steady flow creating lots of fun riffles and rapids. The river runs through wooded terrain with lots of rock cliffs and bluffs that create a beautiful setting. The run also ends in one of the most popular and beautiful state parks in the state, Kickapoo State Park, which provides multiple lakes and ponds that also provide excellent opportunity for paddling and wildlife viewing.

This section of the Fox River Bike Trail is a popular route that explores both sides of the Fox River as it travels through multiple forest preserves, parks, and residential neighborhoods. The ride provides lots of good resting spots at historical sites, nature centers, parks, and other points of interest located along the bike trail. The trail is mostly all paved surface, well-marked, and flat making it a great option for riders of all skill levels. The trail continues on for many more miles to the north for riders looking to add some more mileage.

Starting from the east side of Chautauqua Lake, this ride heads east into the Sand Ridge State Forest over rolling hills through woodlands, prairies, and pine forests before following the scenic shoreline of Spring Lake. The scenery is very remote and natural all along the way. The ride does have some hills but nothing too steep or physically challenging. Also be aware of a few sections of gravel road.

Starting just south of Lake Lou Yeager in central Illinois, this ride travels through remote and rural countryside comprised of diverse terrain between the cities of Hillsboro and Litchfield. Much of the ride follows the route of the popular Hillsboro-Roubaix Spring Class bike race. The ride has sections of flat terrain mixed with rolling hills that make the ride challenging and scenic. The ride follows a lot of quiet and narrow roads that make for a peaceful ride. There is not a whole lot of traffic along this course but do watch out for vehicles along the narrow, and sometimes curvy roads.

This loop ride travels along the hilly terrain surrounding the Garden of the Gods recreation area providing riders with one of the most challenging rides in all of Illinois. The area of Garden of the Gods is known for its interesting rock formations and miles of scenic woodland and rolling hill landscape. There are some nice places along the route to stop, rest, and take in the scenery. There are some sections of very hilly and curvy roads as well as some busier roads that require lots of caution and paying extra attention to traffic. The starting and ending point for the ride is at Garden of the Gods which provides some nice hiking trails and lookout points that are worth a visit.

Paddlers will enjoy lots of nature and green space right in the middle of a busy suburban area while paddling along the Northshore Channel of the Chicago River. The channel is tree-lined with parks on both sides along much of the route providing lots of nice scenery and opportunity for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. There is a good access site in Skokie for parking and launching onto the channel. The water is very mild and can be traveled in both directions so shuttling of vehicles is not necessary to travel down the channel.

Located along the Fox River, Saw Week Kee Park offers an excellent trail system for mountain bikers looking for a little challenge. The trails vary in difficulty giving riders of all skill levels multiple riding options. This loop ride covers just a portion of the trails within the park but there are multiple connecting paths and trails along the way. The park is a natural area so riders are only allowed on marked trails. There are dirt mounds, uneven trail, and lots of roller coaster terrain to make the ride enjoyable. The trails are also open to hikers, equestrian, and cross-country skiing so pay close attention to others along the trail as well as wildlife.

The Fox River between Yorkville and Sheridan is considered to be the most beautiful and scenic section of the river due to its sandstone cliffs, tree-lined shores home to abundant wildlife, and historical sites along the way. The 15-mile long section of river also offers lots of convenient access points providing paddlers with lots of good resting spots and the option of customizing longer or shorter runs if desired. The river is mild flowing with just a few small riffles making it a great option for paddlers of all skill levels.

Located just south of the Illinois/Wisconsin border, this section of the Lake Michigan waterfront provides paddlers with great views of large undeveloped beaches, peaceful nature preserves, and Illinois Beach State Park. The section from North Point Marina to illinois Beach State Park is not very far but the water can be rough and difficult to paddle and the area is a little more remote so it should only be attempted by experienced paddlers. Be sure to only use the designated access points are much of the shoreline is part of a nature preserve and access is restricted or requires a permit.

Located just 20 miles from downtown Chicago, this scenic hike leads through wooded terrain that follows the Salt Creek through Fullersburg County Forest Preserve. The area offers a natural setting in an busy suburban area with lots of opportunity for birdwatching and viewing wildlife. The crushed gravel trail leads to multiple islands, a historic watermill, and nature education center that provides information and displays about the history and wildlife of the preserve. There are fees to tour the mill and set operating hours for the mill and visitor center depending on the day and time of year.

Located in Ferne Clyffe State Park, this short out-and-back trail follows a small creek that leads past multiple rock formations to one of the most scenic and popular spots in the park, an intermittent 100-foot waterfall. The trail is very wide, fairly flat, and easy to follow making this a great choice for hikers of all skill levels. There are lots of foot paths that lead up above and around the waterfall but these can be slippery and narrow so hike cautiously if exploring around the waterfall.

The scenery along the Fox River is very impressive with the multiple cliffs of St. Peters Sandstone and shoreline of thick vegetation that is home to abundant wildlife. This section of the Fox River has a nice steady current with mild riffles that make for an enjoyable float but nothing too challenging. This section of the Fox River is pretty shallow and typically unaccessible to motorboats keeping the waters quiet and peaceful. There is a small fee required for the put-in at Sheridan.

Paddlers will enjoy excellent views of downtown Chicago while kayaking along this section of the Chicago lakefront from Diversity Harbor to 12th Street. Kayaking Lake Michigan is an excellent adventure in an urban area, but the trip is not for beginner paddlers as the water can be very rough and there is lots of large boat traffic. There are launch sites at both ends of the trip and it can be paddled in either direction and done as a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles or an out-and-back.

Setting off just north of Goose Island, this urban kayaking trip provides some of the best views of downtown Chicago. The paddling route goes under multiple bridges and past multiple downtown Chicago landmarks and skyscrapers including Trump Tower and the Sears Building. The water can be rough and crowded due to water taxis and tour boats so paddlers need to be extra cautious and pay attention to larger boats on the river. Launching from the North Avenue boat launch is operated by a local kayak tour company that charges a fee to launch.

Located in Hawn State Park, The Whispering Pines Trail makes a lovely loop through a lush hardwood forest. The trail is home to a variety of animals such as bobcat and wild turkey. You will explore along the banks of Pickle Creek and the River Aux Vases. Water is not available at the trailhead. The entire loop is a full day adventure or you may choose any length.

This loop nature trail located in Horseshoe Lake State Park offers excellent birdwatching opportunity as it follows along the shores of Walker Island. The trail starts just after crossing the road onto the island and from there follows the shoreline closely, much of the time right next to the water where lots of waterfowl habitat is found. The trail is very level and easy to follow making it a great option for hikers of all levels who enjoy birdwatching. The state park also offers boating and fishing on the lake as well as picnic areas and campgrounds.

This trail has great views and well maintained. It is generally considered to be one of the best hiking and backpacking trails in Missouri. It consists of two loops. The north loop is approximately six miles long and the south loop is approximately 4 miles. You can also access the White Oaks Trail by using either white connector 1 or 2. Trail users must be registered at the park office before starting the trip. Groups of seven or more must camp only in designated areas. Backpack camp #1 is off of white connector #3 in the north loop. Backpack camp #2 and #3 are in the south loop. For groups less than seven, you are not required to camp here; however, you must be 100 feet from the trail, 200 feet from any major public use area, and at least one-fourth mile from the trail entry/exit point. Campfires are prohibited.

Nice slow creek with lots of paddling.

Nice woodland trail located in Pleasant Ridge Park.

This loop hike follows the longest trail within the preserve leading hikers through diverse habitats to include wooded ravines, tallgrass prairies, seeps, and small ponds and creeks. There are some short but steep climbs throughout the route as well as multiple stream crossings. The diverse habitats of the area are home to a variety of plantlife and birdlife. There are some designated campsites available for overnight trips in the preserve. The trail does require preregistering in advance for a minimal fee so contact the nature preserve before setting out. There are other trails that do not require any type of registration for hikers who have not registered to hike the backpack trail.

This straight river is definitely not a "float" river. It can be challenging even to the experienced paddler. There are boulders throughout the river making it only possible to do in high waters. There are shut-ins all along the river. This section of the river has Class II and Class III rapids. At the Roselle Access, about 14 miles in, there are some good rapids with fast riffles. The next 1.5 miles will have some 3 sharp drops and continuous rapids. The steepest drop is 4-6 feet. A portage is advised at the Silver Mine Dam. The left side is runnable, but can swamp the craft in high waters due to a high wave that is produced.

Located just 60 miles from downtown Chicago, Goose Lake Prairie State Park provides scenic landscape that includes multiple ponds, tallgrass prairies, and marshes that are home to diverse vegetation and abundant wildlife. The northern Tallgrass Trail leads to a historic cabin and observation point. The southern Prairie View Trail leads to a hilltop overlook that provides excellent views of the small ponds and marshes in the surrounding area. The preserve provides excellent birdwatching and wildlife viewing as well as a nature center with exhibits that provide information about the preserve. The trails in the preserve can be combined for one long hike or done separately for shorter trips.

Elephant Rock State Park is given its name by the 1.5 billion-year-old giant boulders that stand end to end, like a train of elephants. One is even 27 feet tall and 35 feet long. This trail is paved with spurs along the way for you to explore. Not only will you be able to see the giant boulders, but you will pass by a quarry pond, and look down on an old quarry from the mid to late 1800's.

This trail follows an old railroad corridor between the towns of Roxana and Edwardsville and is named after the Watershed Nature Center which it travels near along its eastern section. The trail passes through mostly shaded wooded terrain that is quiet and peaceful. The trail has just a little bit of elevation change but nothing that is too physically strenuous and is all paved making it a great option for riders of all skill levels. The trail also connects to the Goshen Trail (which also connects to multiple other trails in the area) and the hiking loop trail located at the Watershed Nature Center which is also a scenic and interesting place to visit.

Located on a bluff that was once an island in the Illinois River, Buffalo Rock State Park offers excellent views of the river below and an interesting display of earth sculptures created as tribute to Native Americans who once inhabited the land. The sculpted mounds, known as Effigy Tumuli, were created by Michael Heizer and represent five different creatures native to the area. There are signs marking each sculpture but some additional off-trail hiking and exploration will probably be needed to more clearly identify the creations. The section of trail close to the river provides an observation deck that is great for birdwatching and viewing the river. There are restrooms, picnic areas, and limited primitive camping available within the park.

This section of the Tunnel Hill State Trail starts from the Tunnel Hill Road trailhead and goes to a turnaround point at Breeden Trestle. The hike travels through the tunnel for which the trail was named and provides lots of nice scenery. The trail does continue on in both directions for many more miles so adding mileage and exploring more of the area is a nice option. The hike can also be done as a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles if desired. The trail is multi-use so watch for bikers and joggers along the way.

The hike through Barkhausen Wetlands follows a scenic spur trail that leads to the popular Tunnel Hill State Trail. This section of the trail provides some of the best wildlife viewing the area has to offer. There are interpretive signs along sections of the trail as well as a wetlands center that provides lots of information about the wetland habitat. The trail is multi-use and popular with biking and jogging so pay attention to others on the trail. The hike can be done as an out-and-bak or a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles to one of the many access points along the Tunnel Hill State Trail.

This popular forest preserve is located less than 30 miles from downtown Chicago and provides hikers and bikers with miles of trails that explore the scenic terrain of rolling woodlands, marshes, ponds, and streams. There is also a waterfall along the hike as well as some overlook spots for the Des Plaines River. The main crushed gravel trail is mostly used for biking and hiking and there are additional connecting side trails within the preserve that also be used to explore the area. The trails are multi-use and popular with bikers, horseback riders, and runners also so watch out for others while on the trail.

Located just over 20 miles from downtown Chicago, this loop trail explores multiple wooded areas and scenic lakes located in a beautiful and peaceful nature preserve. The area offers excellent opportunity for viewing wildlife and birdwatching. The trail is primarily dirt and gravel and is popular with hikers and bikers. There are multiple access points and connecting trails along the route providing hikers with the option of adding mileage to explore more of the area or shortening the trip by hiking just portions of the trail.

Located at the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi rivers, this large state park offers miles of trails that explore the scenic and diverse landscape of rolling hills, wooded ravines, and high bluffs with excellent views of the river below. The state park is known for its beautiful colors during the fall and bald eagle viewings during the winter. This hike is done by utilizing multiple connecting trails within the park to complete a long loop. The trails can be broken up and hiked individually for shorter distances giving hikers of all skill levels plenty of opportunity to enjoy the area.

This large state park located in northern Illinois offers lots of beautiful terrain and landscape that is open to all types of outdoor recreation including fun and scenic hiking. This hike located in the eastern section of the park utilizes a crushed gravel trail which forms three loops that lead through woodlands, prairies, wetlands, and over rolling hills all within close proximity to the Fox River. The diverse and lush vegetation in the park makes it an excellent location for birdwatching and viewing wildflowers. The park is very large and can be busy with lots of boaters and fisherman but the trails do see a little less traffic and still manage to provide lots of solitude.

Located within the Palos/Sag Valley Preserves, this loop trail explores the diverse vegetation of Cap Sauers Holdings and Swallow Cliff Woods. The trail travels into marshes, deep ravines, and thick woods with multiple stream crossings. There is lots of opportunity for enjoying nature and viewing wildlife in this scenic area just 25 minutes from downtown Chicago. There are multiple access spots, parking areas, and connecting trails along the route giving hikers the option of covering just portions of the trail or adding more mileage.

This mapped trail is part of the Ozark trail from Johnson Shut-Ins State Park. The rugged trail continues on as part of the 35 mile trail through the Taum Sauk Mountain State Park. It winds through mountains, bluffs and rocky glades. This hike is recommended to be done over a two to three day period. Carry plenty of water, since water to treat for drinking may not be available along the trail.

This loop hike follows multiple trails within the Nelson Lake area, circling around Nelson Lake and the surrounding grassland terrain. The trails within the preserve are multi-use and vary from mowed grass, limestone, and some paved trails. Some trails within the area may be closed to equestrian riders and bicycles but all trails are open for hiking and trail running. The area is home to abundant wildlife, including some endangered bird species, making it a great place for birdwatching and other wildlife viewing.

The Katy Trail is a 237 mile trail stretching across most of Missouri. It is America's longest "rails-to-trail" project, formerly the MKT rail line. This trail starts with quiet farmland and then follows large river bluffs. The recommended tire width for the trail is 25mm or wider. The trail is flat and scenic. There are long distances without access to water, so runners and hikers should carry water and plan ahead.

Leading along the western shores of Cedar Lake, this trail provides excellent scenery and good views of the lake as it leads through forest terrain that is home to abundant wildlife. The trail is all natural surface and is popular for hiking and horseback riding. There are some steep sections along the trail that can be physically strenuous and slippery. There are multiple trailheads and parking areas that can be used to access the trail.

This trail is located south of Cedar Lake and leads through dense and lush woodlands along the shores of a small cove of the lake. The trail passes over a spillway that is scenic but can be slippery so be cautious. There is lots of interesting wildlife and plantlife along the route that also includes poisonous snakes and poisonous plants so wear pants and watch where you walk. The road to the trailhead can be rough and is only passable by high-clearance vehicles so walking the rough dirt road to the trailhead may by required.

This trail leads hikers to a great overlook spot that provides excellent views of the Mississippi River valley and Big Muddy bottomlands below as well as abundant wildlife viewing opportunity. The trail can be exposed and slippery at times so hike cautiously. There are also poisonous snakes and plants that you need to keep an eye out for. The trail can be done as an out-and-back or one-way by shuttling vehicles between the two trailheads for the trail.

This hike through hill prairie terrain provides excellent views of the Mississippi River valley as it leads up a steep trail to the top of a rocky bluff. The trail explores the bluffs with multiple side trails that lead to nice overlook spots. There are also lots of opportunity to view diverse wildlife and vegetation along the trail. The trail does follow some steep steps up to the bluff and there are also some sections of exposed trail that require some caution.

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.

The lake trail follows the shores of the lake through dense forests and small beaches that provides great views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The area also provides lots of opportunity for viewing wildlife and diverse vegetation. The lake does not allow boating or swimming making it a peaceful and quiet place to visit and spend time. The lake is located within a state park that offers camping, picnicing, and lots of other hiking trails.

This section of the lakefront trail starts from Montrose Harbor and heads south towards downtown Chicago to the popular attraction of Navy Pier. This urban hike can be done as an out-and-back or a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles or using public transit. The trail passes multiple points of interests and attractions in the Chicago area that are worth stopping to see including popular beaches, parks, and harbors. There are multiple access points along the trail and lots of places to stop and relax making it a great option for visitors of all physical abilities.

Morton Arboretum is the best place to go if you are interested in viewing a wide variety of trees and woody vegetation collected from all over the world. The arboretum also offers native vegetation spread over the natural terrain of the area including wetlands, savannas, marshes, and ponds. There are multiple spur trails and connecting trails within the arboretum allowing hikers to customize a hike of any distance. There is a fee required to enter the arboretum. Jogging and bicycling is allowed but only on paved surfaces. The arboretum offers picnic areas, benches, a visitor center, gift shop, and cafe.

Visitors to the Blackwell Forest Preserve will enjoy hiking through a scenic area full of diverse vegetation and terrain that is home to an abundant amount of birdlife and wildlife. Multiple trails are used to complete a lollipop loop that start from White Pine Pond and heads north and circles around McKee Marsh. The McKee Marsh area is the best spot to stop and do some birdwatching. There are also lots of spur trails and connecting trails in the area that hikers can also use to explore more of the area. There are lots of amenities within the preserve that include picnic areas, campgrounds, a boat launch, and concessions.

Visitors to Silver Spring State Park will enjoying hiking in a natural setting full of lush woodlands, beautiful wildflowers, and small scenic lakes. There are great opportunities for birdwatching in the area due to the diverse vegetation and close proximity to a river and small lakes. This easy loop trail is a good option for hikers of all levels and is open year-round. There are lots of spur trails and connecting trails within the park that can also be used to explore more of the area but some of the other trails are closed during certain times of year. The state park also offers picnic areas, fishing, non-motorized boating, and concessions making it a great place to spend the day.

This scenic forest preserve offers excellent scenery and diverse vegetation and terrain that is home to abundant plantlife and wildlife. The hike leads through both open grasslands and shaded woodlands and requires a few stream crossings. The trail is crushed limestone and is multi-use, mostly used by hikers and bikers. The loop hike is completed by combining multiple trails within the preserve. There are many side trails and connecting trails within the preserve that also provide hikers with the option of customizing a hike of a longer or shorter distance if desired.

This loop hike travels over diverse terrain and through multiple types of vegetation as it leads around the scenic man-made Shabbona Lake. As the trail passes through wetlands, dense woodlands, open prairies, and next to the shoreline of the lake, hikers will enjoy viewing a wide variety of plantlife and birdlife that exists within the park. Sections of the park are closed in October due to hunting so verify trail access before setting out. There are other side and spur trails that can be added to explore more of the park. The state park also offers camping, picnicing, fishing, boat rentals, and a store making it a nice place to visit for a full day or more.

Situated in the scenic and wooded Shawnee Hills, Pounds Hollow Lake provides excellent outdoor recreational opportunities including wildlife viewing while paddling on its quiet waters. The lake only allows electric motor boats and non-motorized boats. There are lots of lakeside picnic areas and nice swimming areas. The lake is also a great location for fishing, hiking, and camping.

This short loop trail takes hikers through marshes, prairies, and an area of sand dunes as it follows a small river and leads to the shores of Lake Michigan. The Dead River Trail is only open to hikers and is an easy remote trail making it a good choice for hikers of all levels. The spur trail leading down to Lake Michigan provides a good spot to stop and relax on the beach. There are also good birdwatching opportunities along the trail, especially during the winter. The trail is accessible from sunrise to 8 p.m.

Mermet Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area is known most for its excellent hunting and fishing but the lake also provides a great paddling and wildlife viewing experience. The lake is located to an adjacent designated nature preserve that is home to abundant wildlife. The lake has four launch areas and allows non-motorized boats and motorboats of 10 horsepower or less. The lake also offers hiking trails and picnic areas.

The hike through the hilly wetlands and marshes of Volo Bog is one of the more interesting and unique hiking experiences in Illinois. There is a visitor center and interpretive trail in the natural area that provides information regarding the unique terrain and diverse wildlife present there. Hikers will enjoy a great display of wildflowers and diverse vegetation as well as lots of wildlife and birdlife. The hike follows dirt trail, mowed grass trail, and boardwalks. The short interpretive trail is only open to hikers and the other larger loop trail is open to hikers and cross-country skiers. There are set operating hours for the trails and visitor center so call ahead before setting out.

Starting from Rock Cut State Park, this ride offers a little bit of everything as it tours the Rockford area which includes older and new residential areas, multiple parks, and a nice section of trail that follows along the banks of the Rock River. The ride is relatively flat with just a few small hills making it a good option for riders of all skill levels. The route follows mostly paved trail and small neighborhood streets making for a quiet ride. The paved trails along the way are multi-use so watch out for walkers and joggers along the route.

This loop route takes riders past multiple parks and forest preserves, the historic Fort Sheridan, Lake Forest University, and lots of scenic areas along Lake Michigan. The elevation for this ride varies from flat at the beginning with a few rolling hills during the last half but definitely nothing too strenuous. Much of the route is along less-crowded roads and trail systems with minimal traffic but St. Mary's Road is busier and requires a little more caution.

Setting off just 40 miles south of Chicago from the Goodenow Grove Forest Preserve, this scenic route explores landscape along the Illinois/Indiana border including woodland and farmland terrain as well as a small lake town at Cedar Lake. There is minimal elevation gain along the route with only small rolling hills requiring very little climbing. The roads are mostly rural roads that are not busy but may not be the most well-maintained so watch out for potholes and uneven surfaces.

This route provides lots of diverse scenery as it passes through small towns, past historic sites, through shaded forests and a large prairie, with some short sections alongside some small creeks and a scenic river. The ride follows mostly gently rolling terrain with just a few short climbs along the way. There are some sections of busy road as well as a few short sections of dirt road on the route that will require paying a little closer attention.

This ride is a good mix of scenery and challenge as it travels along sections of both big and small rolling hills, through remote rural areas and small charming towns, and alongside the impressive Mississippi River. There are multiple sections of the ride that utilize gravel roads that are well-maintained and require just a little more caution, especially on downhill sections. The route also requires riding along some busy sections of road along SR 84 and SR 78 so watch out for cars.

Starting from Lake-Le-Aqua-Ne State Park, this ride travels around a small lake, through the historic town of Lena, along peaceful farmland and rolling countryside of the Pecatonica River Valley, and to one of the highest points in all of Illinois. The ride has some mild up and downs but no real major climbing. The roads are mostly low-traffic but there are a few sections along Galena Road and Lake Road on the way back to the state park that can be a little busier.

This route starts in the scenic and charming town of Woodstock and then explores the surrounding rural farmland areas and rolling hills of McHenry County. The route follows mostly rural roads with light traffic making for a peaceful and relaxing ride. While there are a few rolling hills along the way, especially towards the end, there are no steep climbs or descents to worry about. Stopping at Glacial Park Picnic Area at the 12-mile mark is nice side trip and also be sure to check out the town square of Woodstock as it was the filming location for much of the movie Groundhogs Day.

Moraine Hills State Park is a beautiful area that offers miles of trails that travel through diverse terrain and vegetation full of wild scenery and wildlife. The state park is comprised of wetlands, marshes, prairies, ponds, lots of hills, a lake, and the Fox River. This hike utilizes multiple trails within the park to complete both a large loop and small loop for a good tour of the area. The park offers great opportunity for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. The trails are multi-use and are mostly crushed gravel and mowed grass. There are lots of connecting trails and spur trails that can provide visitors with the option of customizing a longer or shorter hike through the park. The state park also offers boating and fishing on the lake and picnic areas.

Starting from Brookfield Woods, this route follows sections of the Salt Creek Trail and quiet rural roads through multiple forest preserves and historic neighborhoods that make for a scenic and peaceful ride. There are a few sections of the route that utilize busy roads so be very cautious and watch out for cars. The terrain is mostly flat with just a few sections of small rolling hills making it a good option for cyclists of all skill levels.

Located in the suburbs northwest of downtown Chicago in the Ned Brown Forest Preserve, Busse Lake offers a great place to paddle and enjoy nature in the middle of a busy metropolitan area. The lake has multiple coves and channels but boats are only allowed on the main portion known as Busse Lake and South Pool. There are launch sites available on both sections of the lake. The shores are lined with wetlands and woodlands providing lots of opportunity for viewing wildlife and birdwatching. The lake only allows non-motorized boats and electric trolling motors making the waters quiet and calm for fishing and paddling. The forest preserve also offers picnic areas and lots of biking and hiking trails.

This route is a great way to see and experience the south side of Chicago and its many different scenes. The ride travels past historic residential areas, multiple parks, small lakes, wetland areas, Lake Michigan shoreline, and some industrial areas. The ride follows mostly paved trail systems and urban neighborhood streets but there are sections that see a little more traffic and require some caution. The ride is mostly flat with very little elevation change.

Lakewood Forest Preserve is located about 45 miles from downtown Chicago and offers miles of trail systems that can be used for a variety of recreational activities. This loop hike follows some of the popular equestrian trails in the southern end of the preserve to complete a scenic loop hike through areas of open prairies, savannas, marshes, and multiple small lakes. There are lots of connecting trails within the preserve providing numerous hiking options. The wide dirt trail is commonly used by equestrians so be sure to watch for them and allow them the right-of-way.

This ride offers a lot of diverse scenery and landscape as it follows the banks of the Illinois River and passes through farmland, woodland, and prairie terrain. The elevation change is minimal throughout most of the ride but there are a few smaller rolling hills and some climbing required during the first half of the ride. The roads are not too busy but there are sections of Cloverdale Road that can be busy depending on time of day and also be aware of possible farm equipment on the roads.

Clinton Lake is a 4900-acre lake in Central Illinois that is surrounded by wooded terrain that provides lots of beautiful scenery, wildlife viewing opportunity, and nice waters for paddling. The lake offers six boat ramps and a canoe launch site on the north branch of the lake where the water is most protected and conditions are ideal for paddling and wildlife viewing. The water in the main part of the lake can become very rough so pay close attention to conditions on the lake, especially if attempting any open water crossings. The lake is part of a recreation area that also picnic areas, camping, fishing, hiking trails, swimming, and motorboating.

This tour explores the largest amish community in all of Illinois and one of the largest in the entire country. The Amish country mainly consists of peaceful and quiet farmlands and quaint Amish communities of small Amish-owned and operated businesses that are open to all the public. The terrain is mostly flat with only a few short sections along busy roads with wide shoulders making this a great option for riders of all skill levels. Do expect, however, to pass a few Amish travelers with their horse and buggy along the way.

Riders will enjoy taking in the beautiful scenery while riding through rural and farmland areas and along the shores of both Evergreen Lake and Lake Bloomington while exploring this area. Most of the ride follows level shoreline and gently rolling farmland terrain. The lakes and parks along the way provide great places to stop, picnic, and view wildlife. The ride follows mostly rural roads with minimal traffic but there are some winding roads in the Lake Bloomington area that will require a little more caution.

The North Fork Trail in Clinton Lake Recreation Area is a challenging wilderness run that follows a scenic loop trail through hilly wooded terrain and open meadows, over multiple bridges, and along the shores of Clinton Lake. The trail is also used for hiking and equestrian riding. The recreation area offers lots of other recreational activities including camping, picnicing, and fishing and boating on the lake.

Utilizing trails within the Comlara Park trail system, this run offers scenic trails that explore the wooded terrain around Evergreen Lake. The trail has some up and downs that make the run challenging but not too strenuous. The trails are also popular for hiking and mountain biking so watch out for others out on the trail. The park offers multiple other trails that can be combined for an even longer run through the area.

This ride follows the Salt Creek Greenway Trail from Brookfield Zoo through multiple woods and preserves providing excellent scenery along the Salt Creek. The route follows paved multi-use path that is also popular for hiking, especially along this portion of the Salt Creek Greenway Trail. The trail is flat and easy to follow making it a great option for riders of all skill levels. There are multiple access points along the trail as well as multiple connecting and continuing trails making it easy to customize a longer or shorter trip through the area.

This hike follows the historic I&M Canal Trail through scenic wooded areas that are home to wildlife and past historic sites along the canal. The turnaround point for this hike is Dresden Dam but the trail does continue on for many more miles if you are looking to add some mileage. There are also multiple access point along the trail allowing for a shorter route or a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles. The trail is a crushed limestone surface that is multi-use and popular for many types of outdoor recreation, especially biking, so watch out for others along the route.

This paved multi-use trail starts from the town of Joliet and connects to multiple towns, parks, and forest preserves to its end at the town of Park Forest. Riding the trail provides lots of opportunity to ride along scenic open space that provides solitude and the chance for viewing abundant wildlife and plantlife. There are multiple access points as well as connections to other trail systems in the area that allow for customizing a trip of shorter or longer distances. The trail is paved and is mostly used for biking but hikers and joggers also use the trail so watch out for others along the way. The trail is mostly flat and easy to follow making it a great option for bikers of all skill levels.

This loop ride utilizes the Rock Run Trail, Joliet Junction Trail, and I&M Canal Trail to complete a fun and scenic ride through the Joliet area. The ride connects to multiple parks, forest preserves, and the I&M canal, all of which provide diverse scenery and natural terrain full of wildlife and plantlife in a suburban area. The trails are all paved and flat making this a good option for riders of all skill levels. The trip can be lengthened by following more of the I&M Canal Trail in either direction.

Utilizing both the Illinois Prairie Path and Great Western multi-use trail systems, this ride passes through multiple towns, parks, and forest preserves providing lots of scenic and diverse scenery along the way. The ride follows flat, limestone trail almost exclusively with only intermittent road crossings along the way making it a relaxing, traffic-free ride. The ride can be easily lengthened or shortened by using multiple connecting trail systems spread along throughout the route. There are also multiple access points or starting areas for the ride that make it easy to customize the ride.

This paved loop trail explores the diverse terrain of Poplar Creek Nature preserve as it makes it way around multiple ponds, lakes, woodlands, wetlands, prairies, and savannas, all within a suburban setting just 35 miles from downtown Chicago. The paved trail is fairly level with just a few small hills and should be very ridable for bikers of all skill levels. There are quite a few road crossings so be sure to pay attention to traffic. The trail is also popular with walkers and runners so watch out for others along the way.

Starting from the Leroy Oakes Forest Preserve, the Great Western Trail travels through diverse landscape and terrain as it follows an old railroad bed to its end at the town of Sycamore. The trail passes through woodlands, wetlands, prairies, farmlands and small rural communities that all offer great scenery. The trail is a wide crushed limestone that is has only minimal elevation change making it a good choice for riders of all skill levels. The trail is multi-use but is most popular for bicycling due to its long distance. The ride can be done as a long out-and-back or a one-way ride by shuttling vehicles between trailheads.

This loop trail located in the Palos/Sag Valley Forest Preserves explores the woodland and wetland terrain of the area as it passes by multiple small ponds, lakes, and sloughs that are home to abundant wildlife and plantlife. The trail connects to and is in close proximity to many other trail systems in the surrounding preserve areas providing riders with endless riding possibilities. The trails are singletrack dirt paths that are also used by hikers and runners so be aware of other users of the trail.

Located 10 minutes from the town of Peoria, this small recreation area offers lots of mountain biking opportunity on dirt roads that run through the area as well as miles of additional challenging singletrack trail that branch off and explore the diverse terrain. This ride follows the main dirt roads through the area that follow a creek for a fun and scenic beginner level ride. There are some stream crossings required to complete the ride. There is also a dam located in the recreation area and riding on the dam is prohibited.

Following an old railroad corridor between the towns of Alta and Toulon, this bike route offers miles and miles of wooded, shaded trail. The trail consists of mostly crushed limestone surface with some asphalt sections and bridges along the way. The trail is long and is best done as a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles between the two trailheads. The trail is wide, well-marked, mostly flat, and easy to follow making it a good option for bikers of all skill levels. The trail is multi-use so pedestrian traffic may be encountered along the way.

Located on the north side of the town of Perkin, the McNaughton Park trail system offers excellent trails for mountain biking and hiking in a peaceful and natural setting. There are multiple trail segments and loops that can be combined to customize the perfect ride so checking out a trail map of the area may be useful before setting out. This route follows multiple trails within the system to complete a fun and scenic figure-eight through the wooded terrain. The ride follows all dirt and grass trails with some nice climbs and descents along the way that will provide a little challenge. There are also a few manmade obstacles within the park to add additional technical challenge.

Going through wooded bluffs, riffles, riprap and you will find there is access to campsites. At the put-in, the river goes through a canyon, the bottom of a 200-foot valley. There is a canoe access at the Pioneer Road, for those that would like to finish the trip earlier or start it at a lower spot downriver. There also is a change in the landscape as the valley widens. The riverbed becomes sand and gravel; there are farms, wildflowers and wooded ridge. When it splits into two channels, go right or you will miss the take out. Depending on the water level, you will take out upstream or downstream from the bridge.

Located less than 10 miles from downtown Chicago, just west of Lake Michigan, Jackson Park provides visitors with a beautiful serene setting within a busy urban area. The trail leads hikers onto a wooded island that is home to a Japanese Garden with a waterfall and bridge that crosses over a lily pad pond. The area is also known for great birdwatching.

Pierce Lake, located within Rock Cut State Park, offers a scenic loop trail that follows the shoreline of the lake and also travels through dense wooded forests. The trail connects to many other trails and access points within the park giving visitors the option of customizing a longer or shorter hike. The area offers excellent birdwatching opportunity as well as lots of diverse vegetation. Rock Cut State Park offers lots of other recreational opportunity to include biking, boating, fishing, camping, picnicing, swimming beaches, and more.

This preserve is one of the largest in all of Lake County and offers some of the best scenery, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching opportunity in the area. The wide gravel trail popular for hiking and biking travels through woodlands, wetlands, and open prairies with lakes and ponds full of interesting wildflowers and wildlife. There are also sections of trail that go over bridges and boardwalks as well as a designated bird observation path and deck.

This section of the Des Plaines River Trail passes through some of the most lush and scenic riparian areas along the banks of the river. The trail is accessed at multiple spots including two popular forest preserve areas that provide lots of parking and other amenities. Although the trail is located in a popular suburban area, lots of nice scenery and solitude is what visitors will notice and enjoy most while hiking the trail. The trail can be traveled in either direction and can be done as an out-and-back or a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles. The river trail is multi-use and popular for all types of outdoor recreation.

The MCT Nature Trail stretches between the cities of Granite City and Edwardsville leading through wooded terrain past diverse scenery including Horseshoe Lake and a college campus. The trail is one of the many MCT trails in the area and is popular with both students and recreational users. The trail is very scenic and also provides lots of opportunity for viewing wildlife and plantlife. The trail is all asphalt and is fairly flat making it a nice trail to ride for cyclists of all skill levels. The trail connects to many of the other trails within the MCT system making it easy for customizing a ride that explores even more of Madison County.

The Nickel Plate Trail follows a greenway corridor for many miles connecting multiple small towns and villages in and around the Edwardsville area and providing lots of diverse scenery and terrain along the way. The trail passes through some industrial areas but mostly travels through wooded terrain and rural areas with farmland, parks, golf courses, and some small lakes and ponds. The trail connects to multiple other trails in the MCT system providing riders with numerous trip options and opportunity for exploring Madison County. The surface is all asphalt and crushed stone and is mostly level making it an enjoyable ride for cyclists of all skill levels.

This section of the Illinois Prairie Path starts near the banks of the Fox River in downtown Aurora and travels many miles through neighborhoods and open areas to its convergence with the other branches of the trail in Wheaton. The trail passes by multiple parks and preserves that offer nice resting spots and additional side trails for exploration. The trail is paved and crushed stone surface, fairly flat, and well-marked making it easy to follow and a good choice for riders of all skill levels. The ride can be continued for many more miles by following one of the other two branches of the trail or other connecting trail systems in the area.

Located 25 miles southwest of Peoria, the Banner Marsh State Fish and Wildlife Area provides and excellent spot for paddling on a protected body of water along the Illinois River. The area is known for its excellent wildlife observation and birdwatching opportunities. The marsh offers lots of side channels and coves that make for an interesting trip. The area provides a boat ramp, restrooms, and picnic sites.

The Des Plaines River Trail travels for over 56 miles following the corridor of the Des Plaines River through multiple forest preserves, parks, industrial areas, and residential neighborhoods in Lake County. This section of trail starts at the Kilbourne Road parking area in northeast Gurnee and continues along the river past multiple parks, lakes, and Independence Grove Forest Preserve before the turnaround point at Old School Forest Preserve. Old School preserve offers more excellent trails that can be used to explore the area and is a great resting spot before heading back. The surface is mostly crushed stone and is very flat making it a nice trail for riders of all skill levels. The Des Plaines River trail has multiple access points and can be traveled as a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles or out-and-back trip providing riders with numerous riding options.

This public use ramp offers excellent access to the north half of Rend Lake, a scenic lake that offers excellent paddling and wildlife viewing opportunities. The lake is surrounded by open rural farmlands and woodland terrain. The lake is part of a state fish and wildlife area that offers great beaches, picnic areas, campgrounds, and lots of access areas. The lake is a popular spot for fishing. There are motorboats and some houseboats on the lake so be cautious and watch out for others on the lake.

The Des Plaines River Trail travels for over 56 miles following the corridor of the Des Plaines River through multiple forest preserves, parks, industrial areas, and residential neighborhoods in Lake County. This scenic section of trail starts at the Old School Forest Preserve and continues past Half Day Forest Preserve, a golf course, and Ryerson Woods before ending at Lake Potawatomi. The surface is mostly crushed stone and is very flat making it a nice trail for riders of all skill levels. The Des Plaines River trail has multiple access points and can be traveled as a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles providing riders with numerous riding options.

The Hennepin Canal Trail is a trail that spans multiple counties in Illinois as it follows a canal that makes its way from the Mississippi River east to the Illinois River with a connecting feeder canal trail that also connects from the north. This section starts in the western portion of the trail at Lock 29 and travels through the remote rural areas on its way to the turnaround point at the feeder basin where the feeder canal comes to a convergence with the main canal. There are limited pit stops and access areas located right along the canal trail for water, bathrooms, or food so be sure to come prepared beforehand. The trail provides scenery of the canal all along the path with sections through wooded terrain and lots of open rural scenery. From the feeder basin the trail can be continued for many miles to the east or the north giving riders the option of customizing a longer trip. The trail is mixed asphalt and crushed limestone and is very level making it a good option for riders of all skill levels.

This loop trail offers lots of diverse scenery as it travels through areas of dense forests, wetlands, marshes, streams, ponds, and more. The area offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy nature just 30 miles from downtown Chicago. The loop is completed by following multiple sections of trail to complete a long and scenic trip through the preserve. The diverse vegetation in the area also provides lots of opportunity for birdwatching and viewing a variety of wildlife. In the winter the preserve makes for an ideal spot for cross-country skiers.

Starting north at Rock Falls, this trail follows the feeder canal through scenic farmlands, forests, marshlands, and small rural areas to its convergence with the main canal trail at the feeder basin. From this point the Hennepin Canal Parkway Trail travels for many more miles both to the east and west along the canal. The complete trail system provides riders with multiple riding options. The trail is surfaced and flat making it an easy ride and good choice for riders of all skill levels. There are multiple access points along the trail but water, food, and restrooms are a little scarce so be prepared and plan ahead for the long ride.

Following the corridor of the Des Plaines River for over 56 miles, the Des Plaines River Trail takes riders through multiple forest preserves, parks, industrial areas, and residential neighborhoods in Lake County. This section of trail starts at Lake Potawatomi and continues south passing multiple woods, forest preserves, and lakes before ending at Campground Road Woods. Many of the forest preserve and parks along the route also have trails that can be ridden to explore the area more. The surface is mostly crushed stone and is very flat making it a nice trail for riders of all skill levels. The Des Plaines River trail has multiple access points and can be traveled as a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles or as an out-and-back trip providing riders with numerous riding options.

The Des Plaines River Trail is a scenic, multi-use trail that travels for over 56 miles following the corridor of the Des Plaines River through multiple forest preserves, parks, industrial areas, and residential neighborhoods in Lake County. This section of trail starts at the Campground Road Woods and travels through multiple parks, woods, and forest preserves before ending at Evans Field Woods. The surface is mostly crushed stone and is very flat making it a nice trail for riders of all skill levels. The Des Plaines River trail has multiple access points and can be traveled as a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles or out-and-back trip providing riders with numerous riding options.

This section of the 36-mile long Fox River Bike Trail starts from Tekakwitha Woods Forest Preserve and leads riders along the banks of the river through residential neighborhoods, parks, and forest preserves to the turnaround point at Fabyan Forest Preserve in Geneva. This route provides lots of great scenery of the river and open spaces and preserves that are scattered all along the route. The trail continues further north from the starting point and south from the turnaround point providing numerous riding options. There are also many preserves along the route that have connecting trails that can be used to explore more of the area. The trail is flat, well-marked, and mostly paved making it a great option for riders of all skill levels.

This section of the Illinois Prairie Path starts near the banks of the Fox River south of downtown Elgin and travels many miles through neighborhoods and open areas to its convergence with the other branches of the trail in Wheaton. The trail passes by multiple parks and preserves that offer nice resting spots and additional side trails for exploration. The trail is paved and crushed stone surface, fairly flat, and well-marked making it easy to follow and a good choice for riders of all skill levels. The ride can be continued for many more miles by following one of the other two branches of the trail or other connecting trail systems in the area.

Located in the south portion of Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge, this large scenic lakes offers clear water and miles of tree-lined shoreline home to abundant wildlife making it an excellent for paddling. The lake is long and narrow with lots of channels and coves that provide protection and solitude while on the lake. The lake has a 10 horsepower limit and is popular for fishing making it a calm and peaceful place to launch your boat. The lake offers multiple boat launches, a marina with concessions, and a campground.

Shabbona Lake State Park is located in a rural area just west of Chicago and offers a beautiful natural setting perfect for all types of outdoor recreation including kayaking and canoeing. The surrounding woodland, wetland, and prairie terrain that surround the lake are home to abundant wildlife and plantlife. The lake restricts motorboating to 10 horsepower or less keeping the waters a little calmer for paddling. The lake is part of a state park that offers lots of amenities including a boat launch and docks, campgrounds, picnic areas, and hiking trails.

This historic town is an interesting place to visit due to the number of preserved and restored buildings from the mid 1800's that were built by Mormon's who settled the area. Visiting Nauvoo is like taking a step back in time as much of the town serves as a historical site for tourists. The ride also travels through areas of open rural farmlands and along the shores of the impressive Mississippi River. The ride is mostly flat with one moderate climb and a few rolling hills. A lot of the ride follows small rural roads but SR 96 does see a little more traffic that requires some caution.

Following the Salt Creek Greenway Trail, this ride begins at the southern end of Busse Woods Forest Preserve and travels south for many miles along the Salt Creek to the turnaround at the south end of the Elmhurst Salt Creek County Forest Preserve. The ride travels through multiple parks, forest preserves, residential neighborhoods, golf courses, and industrial areas along the way providing an array of diverse scenery. Many of the parks and forest preserves along the way also provide additional trails for riding. The Salt Creek Parkway Trail does continue on further and connects by utilizing some streets and the Illinois Prairie path giving visitors many more riding options. The trail is multi-use and is popular for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing so watch out for others along the trail, especially in the areas close to forest preserves.

This urban ride travels through the oldest town in all of Illinois providing an excellent tour of the cities architecture and history including multiple sculptures that can be seen along the way. The trip goes through residential areas, a university campus, downtown Peoria, and along the shores of Peoria Lake. The trip is mostly flat with the exception of a climb up and over a 100-foot bluff. Most of the ride follows calm residential streets and a bike path but there are a few short sections on busier streets that require just a bit more caution. The ride is not too long and offers a lot of good stopping and resting spots along the way making it an ideal choice for bikers of all skill levels.

The Chicago Botanic Gardens is an ideal place to hike if you enjoy viewing a wide variety of flowers and plants. The area offers abundant trails that explore both areas of beautifully manicured landscaped gardens as well as outlying areas of natural prairie and woodland vegetation. There are a variety of trails surfaces that include paved, crushed gravel, and woodchip that can be accessed by hikers and bikers. Much of the trail system is also wheelchair accessible. There are many side trails and connecting trails within the gardens allowing visitors to pick and choose the areas to visit and the amount of time spent exploring the botanic gardens. There is a fee to park at the gardens but it is free to hike or bike in. Pets are not allowed within the boundaries of the botanic gardens.

This tree-lined bike trail is a paved route that takes bikers from the city of Chatham north to the state capital city of Springfield. The trail connects to the Wabash Trail wish continues to the west for another few miles. The trail follows an old electric rail line that is very linear and mostly flat with the exception of one hill making it a good choice for beginners looking for a ride with just a little challenge. The trails provides diverse scenery as it travels through both rural and suburban areas.

Located along the Des Plaines River of northern Illinois, the Ryerson Conservation Area provides miles of trail for enjoyment and exploration through a scenic and diverse protected natural area. The area is an excellent location for viewing wildlife and birdwatching. The trails are crushed-gravel and are only accessible to hikers, joggers, and cross-country skiers. Bicycles, dogs, horses, and snowmobiles are not allowed as the preserve is a protected habitat for a wide variety of wildlife including rare and endangered species.

Sections of this route follow the Ohio River Scenic Byway as it passes through multiple small towns, national forest, and rural farmland areas located along the Ohio River. The ride offers some nice ups and down along rolling terrain in the beginning mixed with flatter sections that follow alongside the Ohio River. The roads are mostly quiet with little traffic making for a peaceful ride. There are also some small ponds along the route as well as historic sites that make for an interesting and scenic ride.

Located in the Ned Brown Forest Preserve, this paved loop trail takes bikers into a heavily wooded area that offers great scenery including some small ponds and lakes. The trail gives visitors the opportunity to enjoy nature while within a busy suburban area. The trail can be busy on weekends so watch out for hikers and runners who also utilize the trail. There are lots of side and spur trails that can be added to the main loop for more exploration of the area.

The Lake Katherine Trail is an excellent nature trail that provides some solitude and nice scenery in a suburban setting. The trail takes visitors around a small lake, past a man-made waterfall, through multiple gardens, and to an arboretum. The trail is all woodchip, dirt, and gravel and is mostly used for hiking and biking. There is no swimming or boating allowed on the lake and the picnicing is not allowed.

Starting from Giant City State Park, this ride travels throughs scenic peaceful countryside passing multiple towns, vineyards, bed-and-breakfasts, and farm properties. The route is over some hilly countryside terrain providing some ups and downs but nothing too physically strenuous. The traffic is not terribly busy along the way but there are a few busier sections and some narrow, winding roads (and a few narrow bridges) that require a little extra caution. Giant City State Park also offers some additional opportunities for recreation including camping, picnicing, and hiking.

This ride travels around Rend Lake through recreation areas and rural farmland that provides excellent scenery. The ride follows mostly paved trails and quiet rural roads. Part of the ride travels over the road that cuts right in the middle of the lake providing water views on both sides. The ride has minimal elevation change and is easy to follow making it a nice ride for bikers of all skill levels. There is also the option of adding some mileage by taking a side trip on the north side of the lake up to Wayne Fitzgerell State Park. There are multiple parking areas and access points for the trails close to the lake so shorter trips and just exploring the area right around the lake is an option for shorter rides.

Starting just north of the village of Roscoe, this ride follows the Stone Bridge Trail and Long Prairie Trail for many miles through rural farmlands and small towns in Boone County to the turnaround point east of Capron. The ride passes through lots of open green space with small streams and creeks along the way. The trail surfaces are primarily asphalt and crushed limestone and mostly flat making the route a good option for riders of all skill levels.

Riders will enjoy lots of great scenery on this ride as they travel along a shoreline trail near the Mississippi River and up through Pere Marquette State Park. The first part of the route follows the Vadalabene Great River Road trail which follows the shoreline of the river for many miles. The ride after that follows roads through dense forest and rural farmlands in and around the State Park. The ride has a couple ups and downs and small rolling hills over river bluffs but is mostly flat as it follows along the river. Sections of the river trail are very close to the SR 100 so be very cautious and watch for traffic along these sections.

This paved multi-use trail is located along the shores of Lake Michigan and provides excellent views of the lake and downtown Chicago. The urban trail starts at 31st street, just four miles south from the heart of downtown Chicago, and passes multiple points of interest along the way to the Chicago River. The path provides a great way to experience the lakefront area while walking, biking, or running. In addition to the paved trail, there are many sections along the way where visitors can walk along the grass and concrete revetments closer to the lake. The hike can be done as an out-and-back or as a one-way by shuttling vehicles or using public transit from one of the many access points along the way.

This stretch of the Fox River starts from the city of Yorkville and travels downstream through heavily wooded terrain to Silver Springs State Park. The paddle provides lots of opportunity for viewing wildlife and enjoying nature along the river. The flow of the river along this sections is slow and relaxing. The trip can be done as a longer, more physically challenging out-and-back trip or a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles.

Riding this loop route provides excellent scenery in and around Kickapoo State Park and Middle Fork State Fish and Wildlife Area as it travels by multiple lakes and through peaceful rural farmland. The recreation area used to be a strip-mining operation but has since been restored and now provides excellent recreational opportunities. The terrain is gently rolling woodland hills with just a few challenging hills. There are also some sections of busier roads that require a little more caution. The starting and ending point for the ride is at Kickapoo State Park which also offers nice picnic areas, camping, and hiking trails.

This ride located north of Chicago travels travels along multiple trail systems to complete a fun and scenic loop through a busy suburban area along Lake Michigan. The route starts on the North Branch Trail and heads north as far as the botanical gardens to Lake-Cook Road and then heads east towards the lake where it starts along the Green Bay Trail. The Green Bay Trail leads south back towards the starting point. There are multiple access points to both trail systems so the ride can be started from multiple spots and can also be customized for a shorter or longer trip by utilizing other roads that connect to both trails. The ride is mostly flat with just a few ups and downs and is almost completely on trails making it a good option for riders of all skill levels.

Meadowbrook Park trail is a unique outdoor experience where visitors will enjoy both a natural experience as well as a cultural experience. Within the boundaries of the park are 80 acres of restored Tallgrass prairie full of wildlife, a farmstead, a windmill, large herb garden, shade garden, ornamental tree grove, a sculpture garden, and more. The hard-surface trails within the park are popular with hikers, runners, bikers, and skaters so be aware of others along the trail. There are also unpaved trails that lead through the prairies giving hikers additional ways to explore less-visited areas of the park. Other amenities at the park include picnic areas and playgrounds.

This scenic river trail is located just 60 miles from downtown Chicago and provides hikers and bikers with great views of a sandstone canyon, waterfall, and the Kankakee River. The trail is mostly paved and easy to follow with multiple access points making it a great choice for hikers of all skill levels. The hike can be done as an out-and-back or a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles. The state park is also a great spot for fishing, paddling, wildlife viewing, picnicing and camping.

The Cache River State Natural Area offers lots of interesting scenery and opportunity for recreation including paddling through its swampy terrain via a designated canoe trail. The trail travels through a cypress swamp that feels very rugged and wild. The trail is well-marked, however, making it easy to stay on the right path as you explore the jungle. There are some side trips and passages along the trail that offer more paddling opportunity. There is access lower on the river after the trail ends but the trail is not long and the water has very little current so paddling back to the put-in is the best option so shuttling of vehicles is not needed.

This northern section of the Tinley Creek Trail System is a paved loop that leads through open prairies, dense forests, and wetland areas with small lakes and ponds along the way. There are multiple picnic areas and access points along the route perfect for stopping and taking a break. There is a connecting trail on the south side of the loop that connects to multiple other trails within the system. The trail is multi-use and is also popular with hikers and runners so pay attention to others on the trail.

Starting just north of the dam in Geneva, this out-and-back run on the Fox River heads upstream past multiple parks and residential neighborhoods to the bridge in St. Charles and back downstream to the put-in spot at Geneva. The current upstream is pretty mild and not too strenuous until you get close to the turnaround point close to the dam in St. Charles. The trip back downstream is a little easier and more relaxing as you drift down river and take-in the nice scenery and abundant birdlife along the way.

Camp Sagawau is known for its excellent Nordic ski program that is offered during the winter which includes miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, ski lessons, and equipment rental. A trail pass must be obtained to ski the trails but there is no fee for the pass. There are charges for lessons and ski equipment rental. There are multiple trails within Camp Sagawau that can be used to customize trips of varying distance and difficulty. The terrain is mostly forested area with some small hills.

The Sugar River is a great river for paddling due to its remoteness, heavily wooded banks, abundance of wildlife, and sandy river bed resulting in clear waters. Very little development or structures are seen while paddling this section of river and it passes through three forest preserve areas. Downed trees and obstructions on the river can be present and may require some portaging but the current is very slow and steady making it easy to paddle. There are also lots of sandbars that can be used for resting spots.

Mazon River, a tributary of the Illinois River, offers paddlers a nice floating experience down a scenic river with some riffles and rapids along the way adding a little excitement to the trip. The river runs through wooded terrain with lots of cliffs and rock formations along the shoreline that make for interesting scenery. There are not a lot of obstructions but paddlers do need to watch out for lots of rocks that require skillful navigation. The river is mainly floatable during the springtime when water levels are ideal. The put-in and take-out for this run are not very convenient and require some portaging but the extra work is worthwhile for a run down the river.

Hikers will enjoy miles of trails in this pristine natural terrain that consists of lush river banks, dense woodlands, and prairie restoration areas home of abundant wildlife. This double loop hike utilizes multiple hiking and equestrian trails within the preserve to explore a large portion of the preserve. There are multiple side trails and connecting trails that allow hikers to customize a hike of a longer or shorter distance if desired. The area is pretty undeveloped but does offer a few picnic tables and restrooms. The trails are popular for horseback riding so watch out for others along the trails.

The Cliffs Insane Terrain Off-Road Park features over 300 acres of exciting and challenging terrain for visitors to enjoy. The park is open dirt bikes, ATVs, UTVs, trucks, and SUVS. This ride follows trail #1 which completes a loop throughout the park and connects to other shorter trails. The park has its own set of rules and regulations that must be followed so be sure to check the website before entering to make sure you meet the vehicle criteria and requirements. Difficulty will vary depending on the trails and areas of the park you explore. Fees are charged per person and range between $10-$25 per person.

Located in the smallest of the designated wilderness areas in Illinois, this scenic area offers miles of trails that explore the area which includes a canyon of high cliffs and sandstone bluffs. The area is very remote and offers excellent scenery and wildlife viewing opportunity. There are multiple trails in the area, many of which are not marked, so pay close attention to be sure you are staying on the right trails. The area is very popular with hikers, backpackers, and birdwatchers, but biking and use of other mechanized vehicles is not allowed in the wilderness area.

This loop hike follows multiple trails within the forest preserve that explore the dense woodlands and open prairies located in the heart of a busy metropolitan area. The forest preserve offers great views of the Illinois River Valley as well as excellent wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunity. There is a nature center at the preserve that provides information and displays about the preserve as well as picnic areas and a gift shop.

Spring is the best time to do this adventure. There are several streams as well as small waterfalls. The terrain is rugged and sections of this can be strenuous. You will find a lot of ascents and descents as you go. You will travel north along several bluffs which offer great opportunities for scenic overlooks. The trail starts with the Indian Bluffs Trail and then splits off. No camping is allowed in the state park. However, only the first 1.5 miles of trail is in the park. No permit is required to camp once you leave the state park.

The Embarras River travels through mostly forested farmland terrain that is very peaceful and remote. The river is wide and flat so the flow is very mild and slow. The water can also be shallow in some sections and may require some portaging or dragging of boats during times of low water levels. This section of the river starts just south of Lake Charleston and continues on to Fox Ridge State Park. The river does continue on for many more miles with multiple access spots for paddlers looking for a longer trip.

This large loop follows crushed limestone trail through a scenic and peaceful forest preserve in the heart of Naperville. The area is native grassland terrain containing a stream and multiple ponds and is home to abundant birdlife. The loop trail is multi-use and is popular for hiking, biking, trail running, and cross-country skiing. The trail has multiple access points and offers picnic areas and restrooms. The trail can also be combined with other trails in the preserve for a more thorough exploration of the preserve.

This trail is located in the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie and is a dirt trail that can be utilized by bicycles to explore the vast and scenic prairie terrain. The area is known for its remote location and abundant wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunities. This trail can be done as an out-and-back trip or abone-way trip by shuttling vehicles between the Iron Bridge Trailhead, Explosives Road Trailhead, or River Road Trailhead. The trail is very flat and is a good option for bikers of all skill levels. There are some connecting trails along the route but many are not open to bicycles so this trail is the best bet for bikers who want to ride the area.

This section of the Kishwaukee River is one of the most popular for paddling due to the convenient boat access areas and miles of continuous wooded banks that provide lots of solitude and opportunity for viewing wildlife. The river runs through multiple conservation areas that have helped preserve the natural setting of the river. The river does have some elevation drop providing some fun riffles for paddling. There are also possible obstructions and downed trees that may be encountered so some paddling experience may be helpful to run this section of the river. The take-out at Cherry Valley is at Baumann Park which offers a small lake and hiking and biking trails.

The Lusk Creek is a remote, pristine stream that provides some of the best canoeing and kayaking in all of Illinois. The river is not as easily accessible as many of the other rivers and streams in Illinois but the scenery and solitude make it worthwhile. It flows through lots of private land and national forest that is home to lots of wildlife. The stream flows through wooded limestone canyons and is tree-lined much of the way so obstructions and downed trees can be present. The river has some decent elevation loss through this section providing paddlers with a steady flow and lots of fun riffles. Keep an eye out for poisonous snakes that are known to inhabit the area. The take-out requires some portaging of boats up to the forest road.

This stretch of the Kankakee River is the most popular for paddlers due to the clear waters, great fishing, and close proximity to Kankakee River State Park. The scenery on the Kankakee River includes rock cliffs and outcroppings, lots of green vegetation home to abundant wildlife, and multiple small islands. The river is very wide along this section and is usually floatable with the exception of seasons of low rainfall. There is some elevation drop over this run providing paddlers with some enjoyable riffles. There are a few alternate take-out areas along the way providing paddlers with good resting spots or take-out points for a shorter trip.

The Little Vermilion River is one of the fastest flowing rivers in Illinois providing paddlers with more rapids and riffles than most of the floatable rivers in the state. This portion of the river has the steepest gradient providing paddlers with lots of class I-II rapids and a few class III drops (possible class IV depending on water levels). The river is also very narrow in sections and rocks and strainers are common so some skillful navigating skills are required to run this part of the river. There is also 4-foot dam located between miles 4 and 5 that requires portaging.

This section of the Chicago Lakefront Water Trail covers the area between Leone Beach down to Diversity Harbor just north of downtown Chicago. Paddling this section will provide excellent views of the Chicago skyline as well as lots of other urban development and multiple beach and park areas. There is also another access point at Montrose Beach that can be used as an alternate access or a good resting spot. Paddling Lake Michigan without experience or solo is not recommended as the conditions on the lake can become very rough and dangerous. The water trail can be paddled in either direction and done as an out-and-back or a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles.

Starting from the Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center, this hike utilizes multiple trails to complete two loops that explore the wooded areas and wetlands around the nature center and a small lake. The easy interpretive trails and learning center make this hike a great choice for families with children and hikers of all skill levels. The learning center and surrounding grounds do follow specific operating hours depending on the day and time of year so be sure to check times before heading out.

This northern section of the Des Plaines River is an excellent spot for paddling in a suburban area as the river is surrounded along the way by undeveloped and protected green space, wetlands, and forest preserve areas. Paddling the river through this protected green space provides lots of opportunity for wildlife viewing, especially birdwatching. The gradient of the river along here is very minimal so the water is calm and very slow making the river easily navigated by paddlers of all skill levels.

The Rock River is known for its scenic St. Peter sandstone cliffs and rock formations, large river islands, and wooded shorelines that create a peaceful and fun setting for paddlers. There are sections of the river that do pass development, but it is mostly cabins and residential structures. The gradient along this section of the river is very minimal and the water is very shallow limiting the use of motor boats making the water conditions excellent for canoeing and kayaking.

This hike follows multiple trails southeast of the river to complete a scenic loop through dense woodland and open prairie terrain that is home to diverse wildlife and plantlife. Multiple sections of the trail also follow the lush banks of the Sangamon River. There is a little elevation change throughout the hike but nothing too strenuous. There are multiple connecting trails that allow hikers to cover shorter distances if desired. The park offers interpretive nature trails, a nature center, landscaped gardens, and picnic areas making it a great place to take the family and spend the day.

Covering the I&M Canal Trail from Joliet to Channahon is a nice section that offers a lot of diverse scenery in a short half-day ride. The ride travels through open rural land, wooded terrain, industrial areas, and residential neighborhoods on its way to the scenic Channahon State Park. The ride follows the canal all along the way providing opportunity for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The ride is almost completely flat along the way and is crushed gravel surface so wider tires are recommended for road bikes. The I&M Canal Trail continues on for many more miles providing riders with numerous trip options.

This section of the Kankakee River is a little different from some of the other popular stretches of the river in that in travels through more developed areas of residential houses and roads as well as more motorboat traffic on the river. The scenery is still impressive, however, with lots of wooded shoreline and small river islands spread throughout providing natural scenery and opportunity for seeing wildlife. The gradient is pretty mild on this 11-mile stretch making the water ideal for paddlers of all skill levels. This section of river also provides really easy and convenient public access with good parking and picnic facilities.

This section of the Fox River start starts south of the dam in South Elgin at Seba Park and travels past multiple parks, residential developments, and forest preserves to the take-out in St. Charles. The elevation drop is very minimal along this section and the river is wide making the waters slow and clear for paddlers of all skill levels. The river along this route is also used by motorboats so watch out for other boat traffic while on the water. The take-out for this run is just before a dam that needs to be avoided so be sure to get off the river in time.

This section of the Nippersink Canoe Trail covers the stream from the Pioneer Road Landing all the way to the Nippersink Canoe Landing, just a short distance from Nippersink Lake and multiple other lakes that are part of the Chain O'Lakes waterway system. This half-day trip follows the calm stream through wetland and woodland terrain that is home to a variety of wildlife and plantlife. The stream has very mild flow and is easily accessible making it a great option for paddlers of all skill levels. There may be occasional debris and obstructions, and low or high water levels can present extra danger when paddling, so check current conditions before setting out. An Illinois water usage stamp is required to float the river for a small fee and can be obtained through multiple permit vendors listed on the Department of Natural Resources website.

Lake Michigan provides some great paddling opportunity with multiple water trails and access points for kayakers looking to explore the lakefront known for its excellent views of downtown Chicago. There is good access on 63rd street from either the south end of the beach or the Jackson Park Inner Harbor Boat Ramp. Alternate access is also available at Rainbow Beach a few miles south providing paddlers with the option of a shorter trip. The Calumet Boat Ramp at the southern end of the trail provides lots of free parking and great access. The trip can be paddled in either direction and can be done as an out-and-back or a one-way trip. Kayaking on Lake Michigan can be challenging, especially during bad weather, so lots of paddling experience is recommended and checking current conditions is important before heading out.

Nippersink Creek is a small winding river located in northern Illinois that travels through lots of diverse terrain including wetlands, marshlands, pastures, wooded terrain, and even some urban areas. Water levels in the river can be low, especially during the summer, making paddling not possible or a little bit more difficult due to obstructions. When water levels are sufficient the river is a fun paddle that offers some nice riffles and a steady current. There are multiple access points for the river that are easily accessible making shorter or more customized trips on the river possible.

Nippersink Creek, the largest tributary of the Fox River, is an excellent stream for nice scenery and wildlife viewing. The calm waters of the stream and the surrounding wetland vegetation is home to diverse wildlife and plantlife making the stream an excellent choice for paddlers of all skill levels. The canoe trail provides multiple designated put-in and take-out sites making the river easily accessible for visitors. This section starts from the Keystone Road Landing and ends at the Pioneer Road Landing. Paddling the river during low water or high flow is not recommended so check the current water conditions before setting out. There may also be occasional obstructions and debris so always be cautious and pay close attention to the river. Floating the river requires a water usage stamp which can be obtained for a small fee from multiple permit vendors so be sure to obtain one before launching.

Starting from the Wadsworth Road canoe access, this section of the Des Plaines River runs through an area of wooded wilderness that provides the feeling of being out in nature in the middle of a suburban area. The river runs through multiple forest preserves and woods that are home to abundant wildlife and birdlife. The elevation drop along this section of river is minimal making the float easy and relaxing. There are a few other canoe access points along this section of river for paddlers looking for a shorter trip.

Running the Rock River from Grand Detour to Dixon offers excellent scenery that includes lots of rock formations and outcroppings, more so than anywhere else on the river. There are also lots of wooded banks and river islands. There is also some urban development to be seen, especially near the take-out in Dixon. The river is very flat and wide making it an easy, relaxing trip for paddlers of all skill levels. Be sure to pay attention when you see the bridge in Dixon and the warning buoys marking the take-out as there is a dam just bellow the take-out.

This section of the Chicago Park District water trail system for Lake Michigan covers the lakefront between 12th Street and 63rd Street. The route provides paddlers with excellent views of the Chicago skyline. Access off of 12th street is available either off the 12th Street Beach or from the Burnham Harbor West Boat Ramp. The 63rd Street boat access is possible from either the beach with some limited parking or from the Jackson Park Inner Harbor Boat Ramp. The water trail can be paddled in either direction and done as an out-and-back trip or a one-way adventure by shuttling vehicles. Kayaking on Lake Michigan can be challenging and should not be attempted by beginner paddlers as there can be strong currents and lots of large boat traffic.

This long lake is inside Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area. You will find 55,025 acres of 117,874 acres reside in Kentucky. The remainder is in Tennessee. Because of the large is so big, you will not run out of new areas to explore as you can travel along the several bays and by scenic bluffs. There are several boat ramps available to launch your vessel. Anglers will find great fishing here. Some of the fish that can be found are crappie, bass, bluegill, and catfish. The Kentucky Dam Marina is at the north end of the lake and one of the closer marinas to the Barkley Canal.

Starting just east of the Champaign County line, this stretch of the Salt Fork of the South Vermilion River travels for 14 miles along heavily wooded shoreline that provides lots of solitude and opportunity to enjoy nature and wildlife. The river has just enough flow to provide some fun riffles and current along the way but nothing too challenging. The river is prone to strainers and obstructions along this route so be sure to keep an eye out for possible spots that require portaging. The river does not provide a lot of access points but does have quite a few sandbar areas that can be used as good resting spots. The decent flow on the river and possible obstructions can make the canoe trip a bit more challenging so some paddling experience is recommended before setting out.

This trip has lots of different sceneries. You will travel through wooded bluff, rock-lined banks, high sloping wooded ridge, deep woods and narrow valleys. Going by farmlands, lowland plain; the river divides as it goes by a large island. It reunites again after passing it. Take out is upstream from the dam.

This trail is truly in Ozark terrain. It is constantly going up and down, over a hill then down into a valley, and repeating over and over again. Some people compare it to trails in Colorado without the altitude. The trail is mainly a mix of small rocks and hard-packed sandy soil, with softer spots near the creek crossings. The trail continues on for approximately 13 more miles than what is mapped.

The I&M Canal runs parallel to the Des Plaines and Illinois Rivers and provides miles of flat waterway perfect for paddling and many other types of outdoor recreation. The canal stopped being used as a functional canal in the 1930s but still provides lots of historical and recreational value to the area. The water is very slow and flat making it a great option for paddlers of all skill levels. There are lots of forest preserve and conservation areas along the way that are home to abundant wildlife as well as some rural farmland areas. The take-out for this run is on either side of the canal right before arriving at Lock 8. There is also a recreational trail that follows the canal that can be used for hiking and biking.

The Salt Creek is located in primarily developed, urbanized areas but still offers lots of nice scenery and some solitude as it runs through multiple forest preserves that make it feel more like a wilderness run. The Salt Creek is not very wide and there are lots of trees along the shoreline so downed trees and other obstructions are common and may require skillful navigation or portaging. Paddlers can take-out at Kiwanis Park just after the Brookfield Zoo or continue on just a short distance further to a take-out at the Plank Road Forest Preserve.

This multi-use trail follows an old railway corridor from the Wisconsin/Illinois border down to the Kane County line at Algonquin, for a total of 26 miles. The trail also accesses multiple other trail systems throughout the area providing numerous riding options along the way. There are also multiple access points to the trail. The trail offers excellent and diverse scenery as it passes through both wilderness, rural, and busy suburban areas. Most of the trail is flat but there are a few minor hilly sections spread throughout. The beginning section of the trail from the Wisconsin border is hard-pack gravel and is better suited for mountain bikes so road bikes will want to start from Ringwood. The trail is multi-use so watch out for pedestrian traffic along the way.

Starting just east of the Illinois/Indiana border, this section of the Kankakee River flows into Illinois through wetland and bottomland forest that provides excellent wilderness scenery and lots of opportunity for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. Due to the very rugged and wild nature of the terrain there can often be downed trees and other obstructions that can present some challenge. The elevation change is very mild along this portion so the waters are flat and calm for paddlers of all skill levels. The river can be paddled for more miles in both directions and there are also multiple access points along this route providing paddlers with good resting spots and alternate take-out points.

This river trip is a great mixture of scenery including quiet rural areas, lots of wooded forest preserves, and suburban developments west of Chicago. The river starts just south of St. Charles Road and travels south for many miles through multiple forest preserve areas that are home to abundant wildlife and birdlife. The river is cleared often but there is always a risk of downed trees and logs along the way that may require some careful navigation. The water can also be shallow at spots but the flow is nothing to fast so it is a good option for paddlers of all skill levels. There are a few other access points to the river along this stretch allowing paddlers to go out for a shorter trip.

Located in Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve, this small loop follows a mowed grass/dirt trail through native woodlands and prairies that are home to abundant wildlife. As opposed to the main loop trail in the preserve, this shorter loop trail is only open to hikers, joggers, and cross-country skiers. The area offers excellent birdwatching opportunity and lots of solitude and peace in the middle of the suburban area of Naperville. The trail can connect to the main loop just to the west that is a crushed limestone 5-1/2 mile loop.

Sand Ridge State Park is located in the largest state forest in all of illinois and boasts a variety of terrain including dense forests, open grasslands, and unique dirt prairies. Due to the diverse and dry desert-like terrain of some of the state park, the wildlife and plantlife is very diverse with lots of variety. Birdwatching is especially popular in the area. This hike utilizes multiple trails and a dirt road within the park to complete a loop through the southern portion of the state park. There are numerous connecting trails that provide hikers with abundant hiking possibilities. The state park offers picnic areas and campgrounds.

Paddlers exploring the section of the Salt Fork of the South Vermilion between Chainy Ford Bridge and Anderson Hill Bridge will enjoy a variety of scenery which includes tall sandstone cliffs, wooded islands, lots of sandbars, a scenic suspension bridge, and more. The river along this route has few structures and lots of wooded terrain that provides good opportunity for viewing lots of diverse plantlife and wildlife. The river does offers some fun riffles and is very wide with minimal obstructions making it a steady, swift float.

Setting out just below the Skokie Lagoons at the Dam, this run along the Chicago River leads almost 10 miles downstream to Whelan Pool/Caldwell Woods Forest Preserve. The river runs through multiple forest preserves and parks providing excellent natural scenery and wildlife viewing opportunity in the middle of a busy urban area north of Chicago. There are multiple other access points to the river along this stretch so setting out for a shorter trip is also very easy. There are a few small dams along the river that will require very short and easy portages. The gradient of this section of river is very minimal making the waters calm and easy to navigate for paddlers of all skill levels.

This trail is rugged and hilly with some technical parts. The trail follows along south of the Meramec River. You will pass through three parks. You will start at Lone Elk County Park, go through Castlewood State Park and ends up at West Tyson County Park. Since this trail is out and back, make sure to keep your eyes out for other riders going the opposite direction.

This trail attracts many hikers due to the large amount of elk that reside here. You will also see bison, white-tailed dear, wild turkeys, and waterfowl. The trail loops around Lone Elk Reservoir. Ticks and chiggers are common in warmer months.

Starting from the Explosives Road trailhead in the western section of the prairie, these two loops can be combined for a nice hike through scenic prairies and meadows full of beautiful wildflowers and abundant wildlife. The area is especially well-known for excellent birdwatching. The prairies are very vast and open, with little shade, so come prepared if hiking in the sun or during hot temperatures. These two loop trails are only open for hiking but the connecting Henslow Trail can be used for biking.

This large reservoir provides lots of dramatic scenery and solitude with the many side channels and coves formed by rocky bluffs and cliffs. The area is popular for all types of boating. Paddlers can enjoy viewing lots of interesting rock formations and abundant wildlife along the shores of the lake. The lake is also popular for fishing, swimming, hiking, and picnicing. The lake is open for non-motorized boats and only allows motor boats of 10 horsepower or less for calmer waters.

The Kaskaskia River, one of the longest rivers in the State of Illinois, offers lots of nice scenery and tons of solitude for paddlers looking for a relaxing float down the river. This section of the river starts at Moore Bridge and travels through remote and wooded terrain that is home to lots of wildlife. This scenery along this section varies somewhat from the river further north in that there are less rock formations and steep banks but there are more flat areas with sandbars and beaches that provide good resting spots. The river has mild elevation drop along this section so the river is mostly calm and can be floated by paddlers of all skill levels under normal water levels. The water levels can vary depending on how much water is being released from the dam below Lake Shelbyville so check the USGS water level gauges before setting out. The take-out for this run is at an old covered bridge that is very picturesque and provides an excellent stopping point.

The section of the Kishwaukee River between Cherry Valley and Atwood Park is one of the most popular for paddling due to miles of continuous wooded banks that provide lots of solitude and opportunity for wildlife viewing. The river runs through multiple forest preserves that have helped to preserve the natural setting and environment along the river. The river only has mild elevation drop along this section keeping the waters calm and easy for paddlers of all skill levels. There are multiple access sites located along the route, some being located in forest preserves that make good alternate take-out/rest spots with amenities like picnic areas and hiking trails.

This road biking route leads past multiple scenic forest preserves, lots of local historic sites, and lots of parks and green space along the Des Plaines River and I&M Canal. The ride follows almost completely flat terrain and is all paved and crushed stone surface and can be ridden by road bikes with wide tires, mountain bikes, or hybrids. The trip can be done as a one-way trip by shuttling vehicles or as a longer out-and-back trip. There are lots of good points along the route for stopping and resting as well as multiple side trips along trails through the multiple forest preserves and historic areas along the way. The trail also continues on for many more miles providing riders with multiple trip options.

This section of the Cache River runs between the Mississippi River cutoff and Highway 51 north of Golden Lily. The river can be run in either direction and is very wide with little debris and very slow current making it a good option for paddlers of all skill levels. The river winds through wooded terrain and floodplain forests mixed in with agricultural areas. There is lots of opportunity for birdwatching and viewing other wildlife along this route. There are poisonous snakes in the area so watch out and be cautious.

The Kaskaskia River is a tributary of the Mississippi River and is one of the longest rivers in the state of Illinois. The river is very scenic and peaceful, providing excellent opportunity for kayaking and canoeing. This section of the river starts just below the Lake Shelbyville Dam and travels 13 miles to a good take-out spot at Moore Bridge. The river runs through primarily wooded terrain with almost no development giving paddlers a nice outdoor experience with lots of opportunity for viewing wildlife. The river has minimal elevation drop along this section so the river is mostly calm and can be floated by paddlers of all skill levels under normal water levels. The water levels can vary depending on how much water is being released from the dam so check what the USGS gauges are showing before setting out. The put-in is a privately owned boat ramp that collects a small fee for launching.

Completing a loop around the natural area, this short hike travels through upland and lowland forests, prairies, wetlands, and around two small lakes, all of which is home to abundant plantlife and wildlife. The loop trail consists of both paved and dirt trail surface with some smaller footpaths that leave the main trail for further exploration of the area. The trails are open to pedestrian traffic only. The trails are open daily from dusk to dawn and are free of charge. The nature center is also free to visit but is only open select hours so call ahead if you are wanting to tour the nature center.

This state park offers over 4 miles of trails that lead through wetland and tall grass prairie terrain just north of the more well-known Pratt's Wayne Woods Forest Preserve. The state park provides additional natural area for exploration and outdoor recreation in a busy suburban setting. Wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunities are abundant in the area due to the large amounts of preserved land in the area. The state park also offers interpretive programs and a visitor center that provide additional information regarding the state park.

A Moderate trail through thick wooded forest. Lots of fallen trees that you have to climb over. The trail follows a narrow dirt path that is not marked well.

You will explore caves, be prepared to climb up and down steps. Only hikers allowed on this trail and dogs allowed on leashes. Be aware of ticks and poison ivy. The path is made of dirt or cement. You will also walk on wooden board walks.

Starting just northwest from the city of Pontiac, this section of the North Vermilion River is wide with lots of bends and an easy flow making it a great option for beginner paddlers. The scenery includes lots of limestone bluffs and cliffs with wooded shoreline and a nature preserve that provides good opportunity for wildlife viewing. There are lots of sand bars and low rock shelves on this section of river that can provide good resting spots. The put-in and take-out points do not provide lots of amenities but they are easily accessible and do provide some area for parking. There is also an an access point at Humiston Woods that makes for a good resting spot or alternate take-out.

This clear-water river is narrow, scenic, and slow-moving. It is a tributary to the Meramec River. You will find yourself surrounded by trees, bushes and grasses along the riverbed. There are some sharp turns and narrow channels. This can become dangerous during high waters. Paddling this river is not advised during high water periods. The creek may be more difficult to run during summer when the waters are low.

Big Creek is a tributary of the St. Francis River. The shut-ins along Big Creek add nicely to the scenery. You will see them as you enter Sam A. Baker State Park. There are sections with rapids once you reach the shut-ins where a portage may be necessary. There is a paved ford just over 2 miles in the will require a portage. Your take-out will be shortly after you enter the St. Francis River.

This section of the Fox River starts from Chain O'Lakes State Park boat ramp and travels north up to the Wisconsin/Illinois border and back. The river is very flat with minimal current making it an easy paddle in either direction. Much of the shoreline is wooded and home to abundant wildlife and plantlife. There are also some side pools and channels that can be explored. There is a nice boat access ramp to the river located just south of Hwy 173 that can also be used as an alternate take-out or put-in spot.

On this adventure, you will enjoy some great views of the bluffs. You will pass by the Onondaga Cave State Park. This is a popular stop for people to explore the cave. Your starting point will be at the Huzzah Conservation Area on Huzzah Creek. You will travel down the creek one mile, where it will then met the Meramec River. Your final destination is at the Blue Springs Creek Conservation Area. There is a gravel ramp but you must carry the boat for a time. The difficulty is mainly class I but can sometimes be class II.

The Courtois Creek tends to be a favorite among the locals. This tributary runs into the Meramec River. Like Huzzah Creek, there are some sharp turns and narrow channels. This can become dangerous during high waters. Paddling this river is not advised during high water periods. The creek may be more difficult to run during summer when the waters are low.

This adventure starts at the Sappington Bridge Access and ends at the Meramec Caverns and LaJolla Springs Access. This is a nice place to end as there are picnic areas and tours available to view the cave. There are nice views of the bluffs. Along the way, you will also pass by Meramec State Park if you wish to stop for a break. The difficulty is mainly class I but can sometimes be class II. The river can run low in hot summer months and during extended periods of drought. It is best to check the levels before you go.

These two trails connect together. If hiked at sunset, you can enjoy the beautiful colors that the waters take on. They offer great views where the Montana streams, Missouri, and Mississippi rivers come together. Make sure to bring mosquito repellent for the River's Edge Trail. There can be some muddy sections on the trail after it rains. You can see birds almost anytime, but specially in the spring and fall. Some of these birds include pelicans, swans, ducks, geese and egrets. In the last few years, Bald eagles have been sighted and nested in some of the larger trees. Road biking is available only on the Confluence Trail section.

Located on the scenic Salt Creek, Bemis Woods offers lots of solitude and a natural setting in a busy suburban area just 20 miles from downtown Chicago. Bemis Woods is located just east of the popular and well-known Fullersburg Woods and serves as a good alternative for those looking for a more remote setting. This loop hike follows a dirt trail that circles through dense woodlands and along sections of the Salt Creek offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. There are additional connecting and spur trails along the loop, including the Salt Creek Greenway paved trail that can be added to explore more of the area if desired.

This 320 acre oxbow lake is the largest natural lake in Missouri. As you paddle around the lake, you can enjoy the views of the "Dripping Springs" waterfall along south east shore. There are 3 boat ramps to launch your vessel. Only non-gasoline boats are permitted. Anglers will find bass, carp, catfish, crappie and sunfish. Swimming is not allowed. There is a hiking and biking path that goes along the lake.

McDowell Grove Forest Preserve offers a network of trails that travel through scenic and diverse terrain home to abundant wildlife and plantlife located along the DuPage River. The trails are a combination of crushed limestone, dirt, and grass loop trails that can be combined for a fun exploration of the area. The preserve consists of woodland, wetland, and prairie terrain with the Dupage River and small lakes and ponds spread along the route. The trails are multi-use and are popular for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. The preserve offers picnic areas and restrooms as well as fishing and boating along the river.

The Katy Trail is a 239 mile trail stretching across most of Missouri. It is America's longest "rails-to-trail" project, formerly the MKT rail line. This trail follows quiet farmland and large river bluffs. The trail is flat and scenic. The recommended tire width for the trail is 25mm or wider. There are long distances without access to water, so runners and hikers should carry water and plan ahead.

Located within the Loud Thunder Forest Preserve, Lake George offers a quiet and peaceful setting for paddling. The lake is surrounded by woodland terrain that provides lots of solitude and opportunity for viewing wildlife. The lake restricts gas-powered boats and is only open for non-motorized boats and electric trolling motors. The lake and surrounding preserve area offers fishing, picnicing, concessions with boat rentals, and hiking trails.

Monee Reservoir is a 46-acre lake that is part of the Rock Creek preservation system and is surrounded by wetland and woodland habitat that is home to abundant wildlife and plant species. The lake offers a visitor center and small boat launch for non-motorized boats. There is no motorized boating allowed on the small lake making the waters peaceful and calm for paddling and spotting wildlife. A launch pass is required for accessing the lake and can be purchased from the visitor center. There are also kayak and canoe rentals available at the reservoir.

Argyle Lake is a 93-acre lake located in a state park that offers abundant recreational opportunity including paddling along its natural and scenic shoreline. The lake is surrounded by wooded terrain that is home to abundant wildlife and plantlife. The lake has a 10 horsepower limit for motorboats and offers a public boat launch making it a convenient and peaceful place to visit. The lake is also known for its excellent fishing and hiking trails.

Located just south of Wilmot Mountain and north of the Chain O' Lakes State Park, This small preserve offers trails that travel along some of the highest elevation in all of Lake County where hikers will enjoy good views of the Fox River below. Hikers are allowed on the trail but bikes are only allowed on paved roads in the preserve. There is no designated parking for the preserve trails but limited parking is available along busy Wilmot Road so be cautious and park wisely.

This forest preserve offers lots of opportunity for recreation and great wildlife viewing as it contains a dedicated Illinois Nature Preserve with a bird observatory and restored sand prairie. This hike follows pedestrian trails within the preserve to complete a scenic loop that explores the diverse terrain passing multiple spots excellent for birdwatching and viewing the river. There is also a spur trail that leads down to the Sugar River which is a great spot for fishing and paddling.

Hadley Valley Forest Preserve is part of the Spring Creek preservation system and offers just under 700 acres of diverse terrain including wetlands, savannas, and woodlands. Much of the trail also runs aside Spring Creek. The out-and-back lollipop trail showcases much of the terrain and wildlife of the area and offers a nice paved trail perfect biking, hiking, horseback riding, and snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. There are multiple access points to the Spring Creek Trail allowing for a shorter trip or a one-way trip by shutting vehicles.

This hike combines multiple trails within Veteran Acres and Stern Woods to complete a fun and scenic trip through terrain of dense woodlands, lush wetlands, and open prairies. There are some small hills scattered throughout the area that provide a little challenge but nothing to difficult. The trail systems within the two parks vary from grass, crushed gravel, dirt, and paved and are mostly used for hiking and biking. The parks are fairly developed in sections providing a nature center, restrooms, playgrounds, ball fields, tennis courts and more but once you head off on the trails the scenery changes and is much more remote and natural.

This trail connects the towns of Charleston and Mattoon via an abandoned railroad right-of-way that travels through peaceful rural areas and farmland. The trail also passes by some parks and a golf course. Riders will enjoy viewing some plantlife and wildlife along the corridor. The trail is mostly crushed stone with some sections of asphalt and is flat and easy to follow making it a great option for riders of all skill levels. The trail can be ridden as an out-and-back route or one-way by shuttling vehicles between towns.

Located on the campus of Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville, this paved two-lane trail provides riders with an easily accessible trail that explores the grounds of the campus and passes by Tower Lake. The trail is surrounded by woodland terrain as it travels through gardens, multiple tunnels, and wooden bridges on the campus. The trail connects to many of the other Madison County Transit trails that provide riders with numerous riding option around more of the campus and surrounding Edwardsville area.

This trail is one of many included in the Madison County Transit trail system that bikers can utilize to explore the scenic and peaceful city and surrounding area of Edwardsville. The Goshen Trail travels through areas of quiet farmlands as well as peaceful suburban areas. The trail travels over two bridges and through 10 tunnels along its route. The trail connects to multiple other sections of bike trail that are part of the MCT trail system that explore the Madison County region. The trail surface is all asphalt and mostly flat making it a good option for riders of all skill levels.

This trail offers lots of diverse scenery and terrain as it follows the path of the river past scenic wildlife-filled shores, a wildlife museum, the Melvin Price Dam, and some major industrial development. There are some great views of the river and the Lewis and Clark Bridge as well as lots of opportunity to view a wide variety of birdlife that are part of the river habitat. There are other connecting bike paths along the route that provide riders with even more riding options. The trail can be done as an out-and-back trip or a shorter one-way trip by shuttling vehicles between the access points and trailheads along the way.

This southern segment of the Thorn Creek Trail system makes a loop around Sauk Trail Lake and the surrounding woodland terrain that is home to abundant wildlife. The area is a great place to visit and enjoy nature within a busy suburban area. The trail is paved and is used primarily for biking and hiking. There are multiple access points and parking areas for the trail.

Located just minutes from a busy urban area, this scenic lake offers lots of natural scenery and abundant opportunity for viewing wildlife while paddling on its waters. The water is quite shallow in much of the lake and there are side coves and located along the lake that provide calm waters for exploration. The lake is part of a state park that offers lots of amenities that include multiple boat launches, fishing piers, picnic areas, hiking trails, and campgrounds. Motor boats are allowed but there are speed restrictions on horsepower.

This scenic lake located in a forest preserve is very peaceful and offers great opportunity for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. The boat restricts gasr-powered boats and is popular for canoeing and fishing. The forest preserve offers rentals of canoes and rowboats. There is no swimming in the lake but there are multiple picnic tables spread around the lake that make a nice place to stop and enjoy the scenery.

This ride passes through multiple communities as it stretches between the cities of Edwardsville and Staunton. The trail travels through mostly rural and wooded terrain with multiple parkland areas a section of Historic Route 66 along the way. The trail is all asphalt and crushed stone surface with a few sections of paved and dirt roadway. The trail can connect to other trails in the MCT system for a longer or more customized ride by traveling a few miles on the Quercus Grove Trail southwest of the starting point at the park and ride lot for this ride.

This scenic ride starts from the village of Glen Carbon and continues through peaceful rural landscape to its end at the village of Marine. The ride is a combination of the Glen Carbon Heritage trail that is maintained by the village and the Madison County Transit Heritage Trail which is part of the county trail system. The surface is mostly asphalt with some sections of crushed limestone, all of which is fairly level and well-maintained making this is a good option for bikers of all skill levels. The trail also connects to the MCT Goshen Trail and MCT Nickel Plate Trail providing riders with lots of riding options.

This trail leads hikers along rocky ravines and through dense forests and prairie restoration areas along the banks of the Kishwaukee River. Hiking the trail provides some good overlook points to the river below and lots of opportunity for viewing wildlife. The area is still fairly undeveloped and remote providing lots of solitude and peace. The preserve does offer parking, restrooms, and a few picnic areas.

Multiple trails within Pilcher Park can be combined to complete this scenic loop hike over diverse terrain full of abundant vegetation and wildlife. The trail also leads hikers past multiple points of interest including a public water well and greenhouse. There are interpretive trails in Pilcher Park as well as a nature center that provide lots of information regarding the natural area. This is a great place for families and hikers of all skill levels. There is no fee to enter Pilcher Park but there are set operating hours for the nature center and trails.

Newton Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area provides an excellent place for all types of outdoor recreation including canoeing and kayaking on its miles of scenic, wildlife-filled shoreline. The lake offers lots of side coves and channels that are perfect for exploring. The northern sections of Sands Creek and Laws Creek fingers are restricted areas so getting familiar with the geography of the lake before setting out is important. The area also offers lots of hiking trails, great fishing, and picnicing.

This lake located in woodland terrain offers lots of opportunity to enjoy beautiful wilderness and enjoy recreational activities including paddling on its calm waters. The lake's surrounding woodland, marshland, and farmland terrain is also home to abundant wildlife habitat. The lake prohibits gas-powered motors helping to keep the waters more peaceful. There is a free boat launch at the lake as well as picnic sites and campgrounds.

Located in one of the most popular forest preserves in all of Lake County, this short loop trail travels through the dense woodlands of the preserve and is only open to foot traffic. The trail offers fitness stations along the route for building strength and endurance. This loop is best for hikers and runners looking for a workout in a peaceful and shaded setting. This interior loop trail can also connect to many of the other trails within the preserve for more hiking options. The preserve has great opportunity for wildlife viewing and birdwatching and is also popular for fishing and picnicing.

The trails within Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve provide hikers with lots of solitude, shade, and excellent scenery just 35 miles from downtown Chicago. Multiple trails within the preserve are combined to complete this scenic route which travels through dense woodlands, open prairies, and lush grasslands passing multiple small ponds and creeks along the way. The diverse vegetation and terrain in the preserve provides great opportunity for viewing a wide variety of birds and plants. The preserve offers restrooms, picnic areas, and primitive camping.

Located in southeastern Illinois, this preserved lake offers heavily-wooded shoreline full of diverse wildlife and plantlife and calm, peaceful waters for paddling. The lake does not allow gas motors and is mostly used for fishing and non-motorized boating. The lake is part of a state park that offers fishing, hiking trails, camping, lodging, and picnicing.

This section of the Fox River Trail starts just over the river from the Fox River Shores Forest Preserve and travels along the banks of the river through multiple neighborhoods, industrial areas, preserves and parks to the dam at Elgin. The trail surface consists of mainly asphalt, concrete, and crushed stone. Riders looking to add more mileage can continue further along the trail which continues to follow the Fox River path for many more miles.

The Fox River Bike Trail is a 36-mile long path that follows the Fox River through multiple types of terrain and landscape providing riders with an interesting and diverse experience. This ride starts from Elgin Dam and travels through residential neighborhoods, industrial areas, and multiple parks and preserves to the turnaround point at Tekakwitha Preserve near Valley View. Riders can turn back here or continue on further down the Fox River trail or also explore trails within the Tekakwitha Preserve.

This heavily-wooded forest preserve offers miles of trails that explore scenic landscape located along the Sugar River. There are also some large areas of prairie restoration located within the preserve that are home to abundant wildlife. This hike follows unpaved trail only open to hiking to complete a long and scenic loop through the preserve. There are multiple connecting trails and side trails, including a paved bike trail, that can also be used to add mileage and explore more of the area. The preserve offers picnic areas, restrooms, and canoe access to the river.

This section of the Hennepin Canal Trail starts at the eastern end and travels through rural farmlands, open spaces, and wooded terrain to the turnaround point at the Hennepin Canal Trail feeder basin. The trail continues past the feeder basin further west or also north along the feeder canal. The trail does not offer a lot of water, restrooms, or food stops right along the trail so be sure to come prepared for a long ride. There are access points along multiple spots along the trail making it possible to shuttle vehicles for a one-way trip. The trail is mostly asphalt and crushed limestone and is fairly level the whole distance making it a good choice for riders of all skill levels.

The landscape around Lake Murphysboro consists of rolling hills and thick wooded terrain that make for an excellent setting for paddling on the lake. The tree-lined shores provide lots of opportunity for viewing a variety of wildlife and plantlife. The lake limits motorboats to 10 horsepower or less and is mostly popular with fisherman resulting in calmer waters for non-motorized boating. The lake is part of a state park that also offers hiking trails, picnicing, great fishing, and camping. There are also boat rentals available at the lake.

This out-and-back trip leads hikers along the banks of the Kishwaukee River through a prairie restoration area that is great for viewing a variety of waterfowl and wildlife. The first part of the trail does follow Interstate 90 but after crossing under the bridge becomes much more peaceful and remote. The trail is for pedestrian use only and is still fairly undeveloped and primitive. The trail does provide river access for canoes.

Located along oxbow ponds, marshes, wetlands, and upland forests of the Pecatonica River, this scenic forest preserve offers miles of trails excellent for enjoying nature. The preserve offers lots of diverse vegetation and excellent wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunity. This hike utilizes multiple trails within the preserve to explore a large portion of the natural area. Some of the trails are limited to just hiking but there are sections that are accessible to snowmobilers during the winter. There are numerous connecting side and spur trails that can be used to customize a trip of a longer or shorter length. The preserve offers restrooms and picnic areas but is otherwise quite undeveloped and natural.

This unique area, also known as the "Fen" is a designated Illinois Nature Preserve that boasts diverse terrain, vegetation, and wildlife. The wetlands are fed by natural springs year-round making it an interesting place to visit anytime. This hike follows multiple trails to complete a loop through the area but shorter distances can be covered if desired. Access is possible through the cemetery gate so be sure to know what the gate hours are when parking. The trails are very rugged and primitive so long pants are also advised.

This nature preserve offers lots of solitude and scenery with a variety habitats that include forests, wetlands, savannas, and prairies, all of which are home to abundant wildlife and diverse vegetation. Utilizing trails within the preserve, this hike completes a small loop and a large loop that explore all of the different types of terrain. The trails within the preserve are natural surface and are only open to hikers and trail runners. The preserve also offers picnic areas and some primitive campsites.

Located in Siloam Springs State Park, this short loop trail leads through a dense hardwood forest where hikers can enjoy lots of beautiful wildflowers as well as abundant wildlife. There is some elevation change along the hike making it a little more strenuous than other hikes in the park but nothing too difficult. The trail can be combined with many of the other trails in the park for a longer day hike if desired. The state park also offers primitive campsites and boating and fishing at Crabapple Lake.

Glacial Park offers beautiful scenery as well as an interesting display of geological history in the form of intriguing glacial formations. The landscape is comprised of lots of prairies, savannas, marshlands, and most notable of all multiple large mounds, known as "kames" that were formed and left behind by glacial melt. Hiking through the preserve visitors can expect lots of solitude as well as great opportunity for birdwatching. Most of the hike travels near a stream or around a small lake. There are multiple connecting trails and spur trails within the preserve giving visitors the option of exploring smaller or larger portions of the area. There are benches along some of the trails as well as interpretive displays providing information regarding the preserve.

This scenic spring-fed lake is located in Siloam Springs State Park and offers a nice, peaceful place to paddle and enjoy nature. The lake restricts gas-powered boats keeping waters calmer for fishing, paddling, and wildlife viewing. There is a boat launch for the lake as well as campsites, picnic areas, and hiking trails within the state park.

Located in southwestern Illinois, this large reservoir provides abundant recreational opportunity including kayaking along its many miles of shoreline. The lake has many narrow channels and side coves that can provide solitude and protection while paddling on the large lake. There are multiple boat launches and a marina on the lake making it easily accessible. The lake is also popular for fishing and motorboating with no horsepower restrictions so pay close attention to others on the lake. Kinkaid Lake also offers picnic areas and campgrounds.

This hike utilizes multiple trails within the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve to complete an educational and scenic tour through the historic Fort Sheridan. The trails lead through open grasslands, dense woodlands, and down along the shores of Lake Michigan. The diverse vegetation of the area offers great wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunity. The trail surfaces vary depending on where in the preserve you are hiking but all of the trails are open to hikers, joggers, and cross-country skiers. There is only one short section of asphalt trail called the Lake Michigan Trail that is open to bicyclers.

Visitors to the Crabtree Nature Center will enjoy a peaceful natural setting that is comprised of thick-wooded forests and lush wetlands that are home to a wide variety of plants and animals. The trail through the preserve passes multiple lakes, ponds, and wetlands that all provide lots of opportunity for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The trail surfaces within the area consists of dirt, mowed grass, and wood chip. There is also a nature center that is open to visitors from May to October. The Crabtree Nature Center trails do not allowing biking, picnicing, cross-country skiing, or pets.

Rend Lake is a large, scenic lake located in southern Illinois that offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities including paddling and wildlife viewing along its many miles of shoreline. The Sandusky Creek South public ramp provides excellent access to the southern half of the lake near the dam and spillway. The lake is part of a state fish and wildlife area that also provides excellent fishing, camping, picnicing, and swimming. The lake is large and is popular with motorboats and some houseboats so watch out for larger boats while on the lake.

Located in the western end of the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, this short loop hike travels through savanna and woodland restoration area that is home to abundant wildlife and birdlife. The area is also a great place for viewing a wide variety of wildflowers. The area is very remote and offers lots of solitude. The trail can connect to other trails within Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie via the Henslow Multi-use Trail that is accessed from the same trailhead as Prairie Creek Woods.

This hike follows the longest trail located within Siloam Springs State Park as it leads through dense hardwood forests full of wildlife and beautiful wildflowers. The trail does have some elevation change as it travels over some ravines and hilly terrain. There is also a designated primitive campsite area available along this trail for backpackers on an overnight outing. There are other trails within the state park that can connect to the Red Oak Backpack Trail for hikers who want to explore more of the area during their trip. The state park also offers picnic areas and a lake for boating and fishing.

This forest preserve offers lots of opportunity for outdoor recreation including hiking trails that pass through open grasslands, lush wetlands, and dense woodlands along the shores of Fox River. The diverse vegetation of the area provides visitors with lots of opportunity for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The area also offers picnic areas, camping, fishing, a boat launch, and lots of open area for exploration.

Located just under four miles from the town of Gillespie in Macoupin County, this scenic lake is a popular spot for fishing and also offers some nice paddling. The lake offers a boat ramp for accessing the lake but there are not lots of amenities located right on the lake. The tree-lined shores are great for providing scenery and viewing wildlife. There are also some long side channels and coves along the lake that can provide additional solitude and protection on the the lake.

This forest preserve located in Addison is a restoration site of previous flooded housing development that has now been transformed back into the natural wetland area it once was. The forest preserve offers a variety of trails that can be used to explore the preserve on foot or bike. The trails also pass three small lakes in the preserve that are home to abundant wildlife and are nice fishing spots. The trails within the preserve also connect to the Salt Creek Greenway Trail system providing hikers with the option of adding additional mileage to their trip.

This short hike travels through hilly terrain that consist of prairies, thick woodlands, and small streams offering visitors with just a little challenge and lots of nice scenery and solitude. The trail is very shaded and is a peaceful place for a short hike or run. The trails are dirt and mowed grass and are mostly used for hiking. There are picnic areas and campgrounds available for visitors looking to spend a little more time in the area.

This loop hike is completed by following sections of the North Branch Trail that travel through the southern half of the Skokie Lagoons down along the wooded banks of the Skokie River. The area offers a rugged and remote setting just 25 miles from busy downtown Chicago where hikers will enjoy lots of natural scenery and abundant wildlife. There are many side trails and connecting trails that give hikers the option of adding mileage and exploring more of the area. The trails are mostly dirt and gravel with some sections of pavement. The trails are multi-use and are popular with hikers and bikers so watch for others while on the trail.

This historic trail leads visitors past remnants of an old iron-making operation from the 19th century that has been preserved as part of the Des Plaines River Preservation System. The first section of the hike follows an interpretive loop trail with posted information regarding the history of the site. The Joliet Iron Works Heritage Trail does continue on past the historic site and follows the canal for over 10 more miles giving hikers the option of adding more mileage. The trails are all paved and fully accessible.

This lake is located within just minutes of the capital city of Springfield and provides lots of excellent opportunity for outdoor recreation including canoeing and kayaking along miles of tree-lined shores. The lake has long narrow channels with side coves that can provide calm waters and solitude while on the lake. This trip utilizes the boat ramp located on the southwest side of the lake that is less-used and more remote. The lake is part of a state park that also offers camping, picnicing, fishing, and hiking and equestrian trails.