3 Best Hiking Trails in Springfield, IL

“Washington Park is one of the scenic parks in Springfield. This park on the west side of Springfield is a 150-acre site added to the park district in 1901. The park features walking trails, a botanical garden, a large duck pond, a rose garden, a carillon, and carillon concerts. The park has rolling terrain, large trees, wooded areas, deep ravines, and two artificial lagoons. Historic characteristics within the park include the large, enclosed pavilion, a band pavilion, and a lagoon on the park's east side. The park is for passive recreational activity, although there are multiplex of 12 tennis courts, paddle tennis courts, and a pro shop. The park reflects local and national traditions, as this was when the nation was established to preserve and maintain land for local, state, and national use. Vehicle parking is provided in the park from the North, East, and South sides. Pedestrians also use the park roads for walking.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Has a Tennis Court
• Picnic Tables Available
• Playground Swings Available.”

Read more

“Lincoln Memorial Garden and Nature Center is a top-rated memorial park in Springfield, Illinois. This Garden is a self-governing 100-acre woodland and prairie garden owned by the city of Springfield, Illinois, and managed by the Abraham Lincoln Memorial Garden Foundation. The center also provides space for seminars, workshops, and children's education programs. They test runners' stamina over the scenic trails and pathways of the historic Garden, along the tracks next to Lake Springfield, and throughout the Ostermeier Prairie Center grounds. Lincoln Memorial Park features a prairie restoration area with prairie grasses and seasonal wildflowers, a small pond, public restroom amenities, covered picnic shelters, and a half-mile easy trail. Beverages and limited packaged snacks are available.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Offers Gift Cards
• Memorable Experience
• Scenic Views.”

Read more

“Carpenter Park is a dedicated Illinois Nature Preserve known as an important bird area of Illinois. The park is commonly used for hiking and nature observation. The main trails tend to intersect and cross each other, so you can quickly go from one path to another. The main parking area has all the entry hiking points, so it is easy to hop on a trail and start walking. This is a famous trail for birding, hiking, and walking, and visitors can also enjoy solitude during quieter times. This area serves visitors to the park and provides basic trailhead facilities for the trail system within the park. The best times to go to this trail are April through October.

UNIQUE FACTS:
• Picnic Tables Available
• Dogs Allowed
• Unforgettable Experience.”

Read more