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 Reporter |
Summary: This is very nice, well maintained trail system of alternating asphalt pavement and crushed limestone, that is one of several hikes in the Moraine Hills State Park near McHenry, Illinois. The trail system can be used by day-hikers, bikers, and (in the winter) cross-country skiers. The park service here does an excellent job of making sure that the bike traffic flows in one direction, minimizing the stress for the day-hiker, The trail winds it way through alternating sections of woodland and wetland as it meanders its way around its namesake, Lake Defiance. The trail offers nice views of the glacial lake and some excellent birding opportunities, as the wetlands and woodlands provide homes for water fowl, kestrels, falcons, red wing balckbirds, orioles, and many others. The park service offers guided hikes and birdwatching on many days, call ahead for a schedule. Water is available through pumps on the hike, and there are concessions at the park station. Trailhead: This trail is within Moraine Hills State Park. The Park can be reached by taking US12 to the 176 and then taking the 176 to River Rd. Reaching the Trailhead is fairly straightforward and this trail can be joined in progress at any point in the loop. The easiest is to enter the park through the entrance on River Road. You can pick up a map at the Kiosk at the entrance. You can either start the hike across from the Pike Marsh parking area or follow the Main Park Rd. to the North End of Lake Defiance at the Office Nature Center. (Lat:42 Lon:-88) Trail Guides for Lake Defiance Trail Loop: Hiking Illinois by Susan L. Post (Human Kinetics Pub) Best Seasons: Spring, Summer, User Groups: Hikers, Bikes, Ranger Contact: Illinois Department of Resources - 815.385.1624 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Joseph McKenna Trail Reviews Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Tony on 8/21/2007 I've done this hike many times, in different seasons. I'm disappointed that many sections of this trail are being blacktopped for the "convenience" of bikers. I wish they'd keep a small shoulder of crushed limestone for hikers like me so we don't feel like we're walking on a highway. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Illinois Hiking, Illinois Trails, Illinois Hikes, Mchenry County Hiking, Mchenry County Trails, Mchenry County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||