Outdoor Adventure in McHenry County

Hike, Kayak and Bike your way through Glacial Park, Nippersink Creek and the Prairie Trail

Get ready to experience the best of McHenry County, IL with our exciting outdoor adventure itinerary. Explore the stunning Glacial Park with its ancient geology and diverse wildlife, kayak along the tranquil waters of Nippersink Creek, and bike ride through the scenic Prairie Trail. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an adrenaline junkie, or simply looking for a fun outdoor activity, this itinerary is sure to satisfy. Join us for an unforgettable adventure in McHenry County!

Take on the glacial kames of Glacial Park!

Glacial Park Conservation Area

6705 Route 31
(815) 338-6223

Glacial Park is McHenry County Conservation District’s most treasured open space holding, characterized by its rolling prairie, delta kames, oak savanna and the tranquil presence of the meandering Nippersink Creek. Encompassing 3,439 acres, Glacial Park contains over 490 acres of dedicated…

enjoy a leisurely float

Kayaking the Nippersink Creek provides a thrilling adventure with scenic views, wildlife sightings, and peaceful moments on the water. We suggest you start at Pioneer Landing!

Keystone Road Canoe Landing

6500 Keystone Road

A popular spot to launch a canoe or kayak for a trip down the Nippersink, you can chose your trip length and pull out at Pioneer Landing, Lyle C Thomas or the Nippersink Canoe Base. This site also has a less travelled hiking trail. The trail can be used to access fishing spots along the…

Grab a bite to eat

Richmond, Illinois offers diverse dining options with delicious local cuisine!

It's time to rest your eyes!

Hampton Inn McHenry

1555 South Route 31
(815) 578-1900

a natural place to be... welcome to the Hampton Inn McHenry. When the glaciers receded from this part of Illinois, they left behind a remarkable series of lakes, marshes and wetlands. These gorgeous natural areas have been preserved near the Hampton Inn® hotel in McHenry. Just minutes from the…

Explore the Prairie Trail

McHenry County's Prairie Trail bike path offers a scenic and peaceful 26-mile ride through prairies, forests, and small towns for bikers of all levels.

Prairie Trail North

11500 North Keystone Rd.
(815) 338-6223

Village of McHenry - to North Branch Conservation Area 8.5 miles of trail This unpaved section runs between the Village of McHenry northbound thru Richmond and…

Prairie Trail South

400 Washington St.

Algonquin - Village of McHenry 17 miles of trail This paved section which runs from the county line in Algonquin to the Village of McHenry for a 17 mile…

Caffeinate in Downtown Crystal Lake!

Crystal Lake's quaint downtown is filled with unique small businesses, and located along the Prairie Trail. Take a quick break for caffeine and a snack at:

Grounds Coffee Bar & Cafe

89 N. Williams St.
(815) 900-1339

Support your local caffeine dealer. Coffee Bar serving espresso, pour over and local drip coffee. We have many Gluten Free items, local pastries, fresh fruit…

AROMA Coffee & Wine

77 E Woodstock St.
(815) 513-5193

AROMA Coffee & Wine is Crystal Lake's premier location for a morning cup of coffee and an evening glass of wine.

Refuel in Downtown Algonquin!

Algonquin's newly renovated downtown is at the end of the Prairie Trail which makes it the perfect place to refuel before your ride back. Don't miss locally owned restaurants like: