Route Editor
Route Scout
advanced methodical nature experience by AndreyP  Nature Center at the trailhead has some exhibitions, a nature store and also offers indoor and outdoor educational programs for naturalists of all ages. The surrounding Forest Park is very popular, meaning that you will actually see several people on trails who will likely be running, walking their kids or on a date. Dogs and bicycles are not allowed in this park, so you will also see lots of birds, squirrels, at least a couple of white-tailed deer, and other wildlife. There are several designated “listening points” with benches a little aside from trails where you are supposed to sit, close your eyes and listen to sounds of nature. The trail system of Forest Park Nature Center is isolated from other city parks sitting on Illinois River bluffs. There is a standalone Pimiteoui Trail that starts across the road from the parking lot and leads to one of Illinois River viewpoints on Grandview Drive (not to be confused with Pimiteoui Trail of Detweiller Park). Other trails are all interconnected and give an opportunity to create hikes of any desired shape, length and difficulty. Valley Trail and Prairie Path are easy, flat and accessible for strollers, Wake Robin Trail is moderate and rolling across bluffs, all other trails’ difficulty rates are in between. Leave No Trace and +Add a Triplog after your hike to support this local community.
One-Way Notice This hike is listed as One-Way. When hiking several trails on a single "hike", log it with a generic name that describes the hike. Then link the trails traveled, check out the example. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
