BN Life

Take A Hike in the BN Area

Happy National Take A Hike Day! Celebrate the day by inviting a friend or family member to get outside and walk a trail with you. Whether it’s a park in your neighborhood or a nature preserve in McLean County, we encourage you to unplug today and explore the beautiful nature around us!

If you’re ready to get out there and hit the trails, here are a few places we recommend in the Bloomington-Normal area:

Constitution Trail

There’s no better trail to hike in BN than the Constitution Trail. The 45+ mile, multi-use trail has been a Bloomington-Normal staple since 1989. Much of the trail follows the old Illinois Central Gulf Railroad right-of-way through the community. You can discover so much of our communities by traveling the Constitution Trail! Whether you bike, walk, or jog, the trail is adventure, discovery, and fun all in one. No matter what branch you take, you will find unique history, parks, vibrant communities, and a place to rest.

Moraine View State Recreation Area

A late-fall hike through Moraine View is just what your soul needs! This nature area stretches 1,687-acres along with its 158-acre lake. The 0.5-mile Tanglewood Self-Guiding Nature Trail winds around the lake in a wooded area. Tall Timber Trail, a 1.5-mile backpack and hiking trail over moderate terrain, also provides sites for primitive camping along its course. The Timber Point Handicapped Trail is a 0.5-mile long opportunity for visitors with disabilities to enjoy the pleasures of the woods, as well. It’s beautiful, convenient and accessible locale for relaxation and recreation. The vibrant colors and the calming sounds of nature are one-of-a-kind at Moraine View.

Comlara Park

Just a few miles north of Bloomington-Normal, Comlara Park is a large, nature recreation area that’s perfect for biking, hiking, and picnicking. There are more than 10 scenic trails throughout Comlara Park that surrounds Evergreen Lake. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more difficult terrain, Comlara has a trail for every type of hiker.

Sugar Grove Nature Center

Sugar Grove is located in beautiful, historic Funks Grove among over 1,000 acres of forest and prairie. Funks Grove is the largest remaining intact prairie grove in the state of Illinois and is a designated National Natural Landmark. Their 5 miles of hiking trails is the perfect place to unwind, unplug, and discover the beauty around you.

 

For more information on nature areas around BN, click here!

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