A few weeks ago we spread our hiking wings a little further and trekked through Veteran Acres Woods and Wingate Prairie in Crystal Lake. We found the preserve to have a little bit of everything making it a great hiking location for families.
We parked near the Nature Center and quickly made our way down to the pond. A path circles the lake and guides you through wetlands. We found that the further we walked from the Nature Center, the more wildlife we found in and around the pond.
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After our brief rest, we headed into the woods! We enjoyed walking along a rustic path. Some of the terrain is a bit hilly, making it a little more challenging than other preserves in the Chicago area. However, I would say it is more of pleasant change of pace type of a challenge rather than one of too much difficulty.
We also hiked through a portion of Wingate Prairie during our adventure. The prairie was alive with brilliant prairie flowers and butterflies including a handful of monarchs. After walking through such a stunning prairie preserve, one has to wonder why we removed so much of the prairie in Illinois to begin with. I am so happy that we have so many preserves bringing this vibrant ecosystem back!
A walk through Veteran Acre Woods was just want we needed to recharge before the week ahead! I really loved how the preserve combines a more rustic adventure through the woods with a sizable prairie and picturesque wetland area. The playground and picnic area make it exceptionally friendly for families!
Things to know:
- Varied ecosystems including wetland, prairie and forest providing for unique hiking experiences every time.
- The picnic area is large and would be great for a family gathering.
- Actual restrooms rather than port-a-potties are located in the picnic area.
- Be sure to bring bug spray--we got bit quite a bit in the prairie and had to spray mid-hike.
- The trails are more rustic but not overly difficult. There are some hills.
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