Community Corner
6 Can’t-Miss Hikes Near Springfield
Get outside and explore — these nearby hikes offer everything from easy strolls to more challenging treks for every kind of adventurer.
Springfield is full of opportunities to get outside and explore the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a quick stroll or a more challenging trek, these can't-miss hikes in and around Springfield offer something for every kind of adventurer.
Please note: Drive times are approximate and may vary based on your starting point and traffic. Be sure to check for trail closures and consider weather conditions before heading out.
1. Margery Adams Wildlife Sanctuary
📍 2315 Clear Lake Avenue, Springfield, IL
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A 40-acre urban woodland and prairie with restored tallgrass prairie and second-growth forest. This peaceful, wildlife-rich oasis is perfect for birdwatching and gentle walking.
2. Lincoln Memorial Garden & Nature Center
📍 2301 East Lake Drive, Springfield, IL
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Over 5 miles of trails weave through Illinois woodlands and prairie gardens, with scenic views of Lake Springfield — ideal for a family stroll or quiet nature immersion.
3. Carpenter Park
📍 North bank of the Sangamon River, Springfield, IL
A 322-acre natural area featuring mature oak-hickory forest, river-bluff trails, and unique historical touches like preserved Route 66 pavement. Great for an immersive woodland hike.
4. Washington Park Trails
📍 1501 S. Grand Ave. West, Springfield, IL
Set within a large historic park, these trails offer rolling terrain, wooded ravines, and lagoons. A lovely shaded option close to the city for walking, jogging, or casual nature time.
5. Sangamon Valley Trail
📍 Centennial Park Trailhead: 5938 Bunker Hill Rd, Springfield, IL
An 11.5-mile paved rail trail perfect for hiking or biking. Smooth and well-maintained, it passes through suburban and rural landscapes for a longer trail experience.
6. Interurban Trail
📍 Begins on Springfield’s south side and runs to Chatham, IL (~15 minutes from downtown Springfield)
An 8.3-mile paved corridor on a former interurban railway, with scenic views crossing over the southwestern arm of Lake Springfield. Peaceful and accessible for hikers and cyclists.
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