Illinois state parks to celebrate National Trails Day with hikes and outdoor activities

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., (KBSI) — The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is encouraging residents to hit the trails June 6 in celebration of National Trails Day.

The department will host hiking events at four Illinois state parks, offering opportunities for self-guided hikes, guided tours and a trail challenge scavenger hunt. Participants who complete a hike will receive a special “Hiked It and Liked It” 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,” IDNR Director Natalie Phelps Finnie said.

In southern Illinois, Giant City State Park in Jackson County will host a Hiking Boot Challenge. Hikers can complete the challenge by finding hidden hiking boot markers on at least two of the park’s seven trails and taking selfies with them. Participants can then show their photos at the visitor center between 8 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to receive a commemorative sticker.

Lincoln Trail State Park in Clark County will offer a self-guided hiking experience, allowing visitors to explore trails through wooded areas, open fields and along Lincoln Trail Lake. Participants can check in at the campground host station in the Plainview Campground to receive a sticker.

Additional events include guided bog tours at Volo Bog State Natural Area in Lake County and a guided hike at McHenry Dam in McHenry County. Registration is required for both events.

For more information about National Trails Day activities at Illinois state parks, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website.