Hike a Kame at Glacial Park 6 miles with 3 mile option
Details
Optional post hike lunch
Richmond Brathaus
10310 North Main street Richmond
https://www.meetatthebrathaus.com/
Per Kristin, separate checks ok let server in advance
Please watch your speed as you drive into the preserve! We found that McHenry County Conservation District Police Department is vigilant about making sure that people stay within speed limit.
Mileage options may be adjusted as the date gets closer.
Overview
Scheduling this for a late Summer season in hopes for fields of late blooming flowers. We've seen them before late season here and they were gorgeous. Every season is different and we shall see.
I first led a hike here on 05/23/2020 and have been coming back almost every year except 2024.
Located in Ringwood Illinois not far from the Wisconsin border.
This is a moderate hike with areas that have some pretty steep inclines.
Hiking poles may be useful if your not used to hiking moderate terrain.
Expect a combination of grass, packed dirt and rocky surfaces. Be prepared for a workout even if you do the 3 mile option. There are more than a few hilly areas. Some are not "gentle" rolling hills. We will go slow but if your ahead be sure to watch out for small footpaths and wait for us when you see split off.
For those who want a longer hike, we'll do additional trails including one that follows along the Nippersink river.
This hike is cross posted with Chicagoland Trailblazers Hiking Group
https://www.meetup.com/chicagoland-trailblazers-hiking-group/events/313076980
and my guest rsvp includes members of the group.
Location:
We are meeting in Lost Valley Visitor Center parking lot, The map pin should take you there.
When you turn onto Hart road, go .9 miles.
At .9 miles please pass by the road that goes into Power Walker House. The road to Lost Valley Visitor Center is the very next road. Make a right.
Then follow that road another .4 miles to the parking lot. Its a huge parking lot and we'll meet at very beginning of it as soon as you pull in.
Lost Valley Visitors center
6720 Keystone road
Richmond IL
Please allow extra time to find it. Call or Text me at 847 757-1230 if you are running late and I'll try to guide you which way we're going
Details
Its a mix of forest and open meadow and ecologically precious! McHenry County states that "its 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 nature preserve; harbors 40 state endangered and threatened plant and animal species; is listed as one of the top five areas to view migratory wetland birds in the region."
Website
https://www.mccdistrict.org/visit___explore/places_to_go/find_a_site/glacial_park.php
https://www2.illinois.gov/dnr/INPC/Pages/Area2McHenryGlacialPark.aspx
Trail Map
https://files.mccdistrict.org//All%20Sites/Glacial%20Park%20Trail%20Map.pdf