FRANKLIN CREEK CONSERVATION 1893 TWIST ROAD, FRANKLIN GROVE, IL 61031 815-456-2878
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  • Home
  • About
    • What's Happening at Franklin Creek
    • About FCCA
    • Board of Directors & Staff
    • Mission & Goals
    • Franklin Creek History
    • Publications/Archive
  • Plan Your Visit
    • Directions
    • Franklin Creek State Natural Area >
      • What's in our State Natural Area
      • Trails >
        • Trails at FCSNA
        • Headwaters
        • Husar Trail
        • Seasons of Change
      • What's in Bloom?
      • Invasive Species
      • Great Rocks
      • Birds on the Wing
      • Critters in Sight
    • Grist Mill >
      • Grist Mill Activities & Tours
      • Grist Mill Rental
      • Corn Grinding
      • Recipes at the Mill
    • Chautauqua
    • Nearby
  • Programs & Events
    • Guided Hikes
    • Evenings at the Mill
    • Movies in the Park
    • K-12 Education >
      • Field Trips
      • Junior Naturalist
      • Scout and Home School Programs
    • Outreach >
      • In the Classroom
      • Presentations
    • BioBlitz
  • Volunteer
    • Join FCCA
    • Land Stewardship >
      • Stewardship Workdays
      • Stewardship Activities
    • 1480 Old Mill Road >
      • Workdays
      • Progress
    • Education Committee
  • Donate
  • Store
  • Contact

Trails


Franklin Creek State Natural Area
Franklin Creek Trail Map - North
Franklin Creek Trail Map - Headwaters
Franklin Creek Trail Map - South
Picture
Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica) along the Husar Memorial Trail
HIKING
Four and a half miles of hiking trails are marked and maintained at the natural area. All trail markers are numbered and clearly shown on the  map to help you follow the trails. The Mill Springs Trail is a unique, concrete-surfaced trail suitable for people of all mobility levels. The trail leads to the beautiful Mill Spring and possesses an easy rating. Pioneer Pass is highly recommended to see the natural area's unique, natural beauty.

​In addition, three guided trails provide interpretive signage for an enhanced educational experience.

The Seasons of Change Trail behind the Grist Mill runs through the prairie and along the creek, with signage that explains how the seasonal changes affect the different habitats.

The Husar Memorial Trail starts on Old Mill Road and meanders through woodlands. The signs contain quotes about nature and the trail leads to a contemplative sculpture and historic barn.

The Headwaters Trail is accessed off of North State Street in Franklin Grove. Follow the signs to the parking lot. The trail wanders through various habitats including prairie, wetland, cropland, savanna and woodlands. The signs explain these diverse habitats.
Picture
EQUESTRIAN
​
The equestrian area contains twelve miles of trails. The Rock River Trail and Horseman's Association have been instrumental in developing and maintaining this area. Equestrian facilities include a picnic shelter, restrooms, drinking water, and an outdoor show area.
CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING
​
Two of the six miles of equestrian trails serve as ski trails winding through 65 acres of rolling wooded landscape. Trails possess a medium difficulty rating and are opened after hunting season closes.
Picture
© “Snowmobiling in New Brunswick” by Skeezix1000, Flickr, CC by 2.0
SNOWMOBILING
Four of the six miles of equestrian trails serve as snowmobile trails after the hunting season closes and a four inch snow base exists.

Location


Franklin Creek Conservation Association

1893 Twist Road
Franklin Grove, IL 61031

815.456.2718
engage@franklincreekconservation.org

Grist Mill Hours | APRIL 1ST – OCTOBER 31ST

Friday: Noon–4 pm | JUNE 1ST – AUGUST 31ST
Saturday: Noon–4 pm
Sunday: Noon–4 pm

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