Easy hikes and walks around Edwardsville

Edwardsville and its surrounding areas offer a good selection of easy hiking trails. This guide features four specifically categorized as easy, but the broader Madison County Transit (MCT) Trails system provides over 130 miles of paved, multi-use paths suitable for easy walks.

You'll find a diverse range of terrain on easy hikes in Edwardsville. Many trails, especially those part of the MCT system or in city parks like Joe Glik Park, are paved and relatively flat. However, areas like the Watershed Nature Center offer unique raised marsh walks, and Bohm Woods Nature Preserve provides a 2-mile unpaved loop with variable terrain and stream crossings through old-growth forest.

Yes, Edwardsville has several easy loop trails. For example, the Lakeshore, Campground and Larch Tree Trail Loop offers a pleasant circuit. The Bohm Woods Nature Preserve also features a 2-mile unpaved loop trail, perfect for a more immersive nature experience.

Absolutely! Edwardsville is very family-friendly. Many city parks, like Leclaire Park, offer pleasant sidewalk loops ideal for family walks. The paved sections of the MCT Trails system are also excellent for children, and the Watershed Nature Center provides an engaging environment for environmental education and exploration.

Many trails in Edwardsville are dog-friendly, especially the paved MCT Trails system and trails within city parks. However, it's always best to check specific park regulations before you go, as some nature preserves might have restrictions to protect wildlife. Always keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them.

Yes, Edwardsville offers several excellent stroller-friendly options. The expansive Madison County Transit (MCT) Trails system, with its over 130 miles of paved paths, is ideal for strollers. City parks like Joe Glik Park and Leclaire Park also feature paved walking trails perfect for a leisurely stroll with a stroller.

Edwardsville boasts several scenic spots. The Watershed Nature Center offers wetlands, woodlands, and a unique raised marsh walk. Bohm Woods Nature Preserve features massive, centuries-old hardwood trees and rare spring wildflowers. You can also enjoy tranquil views of a lake teeming with carp and turtles at the SIUE Gardens, or walk across the majestic Mississippi River on the historic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge.

The komoot community rates the Edwardsville area highly, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of the trails, the diverse natural landscapes ranging from wetlands to old-growth forests, and the well-maintained paths that make outdoor exploration enjoyable for all skill levels.

Yes, Edwardsville has several points of interest. The historic Old Chain of Rocks Bridge offers a unique walk across the Mississippi River. While not directly on every trail, you can find attractions like the Market Street Bridge and the Concrete City in the broader region, offering glimpses into local history and engineering.

For a very short and easy option, consider the Seven Tubs Main Loop. It's less than a kilometer long and offers a quick, pleasant walk. Another slightly longer but still easy option is the Seven Tubs Recreation Area – Seven Tubs Main Loop loop from Liewellyn Corners, which is about 3.3 km.

Edwardsville offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers, especially in places like Bohm Woods. Summer is great for shaded trails, and fall provides stunning foliage. Even winter can be pleasant for a crisp walk, with opportunities for birdwatching, particularly bald eagles at nearby Pere Marquette State Park.