I&M Canal Trail from Joliet Ironworks, 6+ miles or less

We've enjoyed learning about our area's atomic history in Palos and the quarries in Lemont, so let's continue on this journey with the historic Joliet Iron Works. We'll spend some time exploring the Historic Site on the paved interpretive trail, Joliet Iron Works Historic Site | Forest Preserve District of Will County. This was the site of an iron manufacturing facility from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. Cultural resources protected at the preserve include foundations of the blast furnaces and other structures from the dismantled factory.

Then we'll head up the I&M Canal Towpath toward Lockport. It's about 3 miles to Dellwood Park with its own fascinating history. Those who like can explore the park or continue to downtown Lockport; those who want a shorter hike can turn around at any point and head back to the Ironworks. Easy, flat crushed stone trail.