Illinois State Parks to Celebrate National Trails Day with Hikes Across the State (Springfield, IL) – Outdoor enthusiasts are being encouraged to hit the trails on National Trails Day, Saturday, June 6, as the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) hosts special hiking events at state parks and natural areas across Illinois.
The statewide celebration will feature a variety of hiking experiences, including guided hikes, self-guided adventures, educational tours, and a scavenger hunt challenge. Participants who complete a hike will receive a special “Hiked It and Liked It” commemorative sticker while supplies last.
“IDNR invites hikers of all ages and abilities to visit a state or local park near them to explore the trails, connect with the outdoors, and commit to being trail stewards who leave nature in better condition than they found it,” said IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie.
Giant City State Park Hosts Hiking Boot Challenge
Visitors to Giant City State Park in Jackson County can take part in a special Hiking Boot Challenge. Hidden “hiking boots” will be placed along each of the park’s seven trails, which range from one-third mile to two miles in length.
Participants who locate boots on at least two trails and take selfies with them can present their photos at the visitor center between 8 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to earn a commemorative sticker.
Self-Guided Adventure at Lincoln Trail State Park
At Lincoln Trail State Park in Clark County, hikers can explore the park’s wooded trails, open fields, and lakeside scenery at their own pace.
Visitors can stop by the campground host station in the Plainview Campground to receive a National Trails Day sticker while supplies last.
Guided Tours of Rare Volo Bog
Nature lovers can experience one of Illinois’ most unique ecosystems during guided tours at Volo Bog State Natural Area in Lake County.
Participants will walk along the site’s floating boardwalk through Illinois’ only open-water quaking bog, learning about its glacial origins and rare plant life. Tours begin at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and are limited to 10 participants each due to boardwalk capacity restrictions.
Advance registration is required by emailing dnr.volobog@illinois.gov.
McHenry Dam Guided Hike
A guided two-mile hike will be offered at McHenry Dam in McHenry County beginning at 10 a.m.
The hike will take participants along the Fox River while highlighting local wildlife, native plants, and the dam’s role in regional water management. Organizers recommend bringing binoculars. Registration is also required through dnr.volobog@illinois.gov.
Encouraging Outdoor Exploration
National Trails Day is observed annually to promote outdoor recreation and encourage stewardship of public lands. IDNR officials hope the events will inspire residents to explore Illinois’ extensive network of trails and natural areas.
Established in 1925, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources manages approximately 400 sites statewide, including state parks, historic sites, forests, wildlife areas, and conservation programs.
Illinois State Parks to Celebrate National Trails Day with Hikes Across the State
