We placed this cache so that you could get some exercise and
enjoy this great trail.
Cache is a Lock-N-Lock Container
loaded with goodies!
Trail
Overview
The McHenry County Prairie Trail stretches 25.9 miles from
Algonquin to the Wisconsin State Line. The trail follows what was
once a Chicago and Northwestern rail line that ran from Kane County
into Wisconsin. By building the Prairie Trail along portions of the
corridor that were abandoned by the railroad and complimenting the
existing active rail with adjacent trails, the District has
recycled an old transportation mode into one for the future.
The trail connects eight McHenry County communities, including
Algonquin, Lake in the Hills, Crystal Lake, Prairie Grove, McHenry,
McCullom Lake, Ringwood, and Richmond.
The trail is open from sunrise to sunset.
Follow link for the trail map
Follow link to get to the MCCD Site
Trail Uses
- Approved trail uses are dependent upon the section and surface
of the trail. Refer to the map and key for detailed locations.
- From Algonquin to Ringwood—this paved section provides
opportunities for pedestrians, bicyclists, rollerbladers, and
cross-country skiing. Please note that, while most of the trail is
relatively flat, the section between Lorraine Ave. and Hillside
Road in Crystal Lake (through Sterne’s Woods) is quite hilly.
- From Ringwood to the Wisconsin line—this original rail
ballast/gravel trail offers a travel way for hikers, horseback
riders, bicyclists (road bicycles are not recommended), and
snowmobilers (with more than 4" of snow).
- For more information about the Prairie Trail, contact the
McHenry County Conservation District at 815.338.MCCD
(815.338.6223).
MCCD Rules
- This Geocache is on McHenry County Conservation
District land with
permission
- Absolutely no cutting of brush or
other vegetation is allowed
- Visitors must remain on designated
trails until you are right at the cache
- It is the visitor's responsibility
to orient themselves with the site rules
- Sites are open sunrise to sunset,
however some gates may not be open until 8am
- At certain times of the year, sites
will close for a variety of reasons.