Mount Hoy Trail

Illinois

Dupage County

Mount Hoy Trail

Easy

2.9

(24)

hikers

Mount Hoy Trail

Q: What is the difficulty level of the Mount Hoy Trail?

The Mount Hoy Trail is generally considered easy by komoot, but local descriptions suggest a moderate experience due to some distinct uphill portions and varied terrain. While parts are flat, you might encounter roots and potential blockages, especially on the 'backside of Mt Hoy'.

Q: Is the Mount Hoy Trail a loop or an out-and-back route?

The komoot route for the Mount Hoy Trail is designed as a loop, allowing you to experience different sections of the trail without retracing your steps.

Q: Where can I park to access the Mount Hoy Trail?

The Mount Hoy Trail is located within Blackwell Forest Preserve. You can typically find parking at designated areas within the preserve, which provide direct access to the trailheads.

Q: Are dogs allowed on the trail?

Yes, dogs are welcome on the Mount Hoy Trail. Please ensure they are kept on a leash at all times, as per Blackwell Forest Preserve regulations.

Q: Do I need a permit or is there an entrance fee for Blackwell Forest Preserve?

Generally, there is no entrance fee or permit required for day use of Blackwell Forest Preserve, which includes access to the Mount Hoy Trail. However, it's always a good idea to check the official DuPage County Forest Preserve District website for any updated regulations or specific activity permits.

Q: What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect to see?

As you hike the trail, you'll be immersed in a natural, forested environment. Expect scenic views, especially around Silver Lake , and opportunities for wildlife observation within the Blackwell Forest Preserve.

Q: What are the notable points of interest along the route?

The trail offers views of Silver Lake and leads to the Mount Hoy Summit , which provides a distinct uphill portion and scenic vantage points.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike the Mount Hoy Trail?

The trail is enjoyable in various seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. While it's a great hiking spot in warmer months, Mount Hoy transforms into a popular snow tubing destination in winter, offering a unique experience if there's sufficient snow.

Q: Is the trail suitable for families with children?

Given its easy to moderate difficulty and relatively short distance, the Mount Hoy Trail can be suitable for families with children. The varied terrain and points of interest like Silver Lake and the summit can keep younger hikers engaged.

Q: Does the trail intersect with other paths?

Yes, the route primarily follows the official Mount Hoy Trail, covering about 94% of its length. Within Blackwell Forest Preserve, you may find connections to other paths that allow for longer explorations.

00:32

2.02km

20m

Hiking

The Mount Hoy Trail offers a delightful and easy hiking experience, winding through diverse landscapes of oak woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. This 1.3-mile (2.0 km) route features a gentle 61 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain, leading to the Mount Hoy Summit where you can enjoy panoramic views, including Silver Lake and, on clear days, even the Chicago skyline. It's a quick 32-minute journey that provides a refreshing escape into nature.

Located within the Blackwell Forest Preserve, the trail is easily accessible for a casual outing. While it's a great spot for hiking in warmer months, consider a winter visit if you're interested in snow tubing; just be aware that district-provided tubes are necessary for that activity. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned, making it a straightforward option for a spontaneous adventure.

Mount Hoy itself has a fascinating history, having been constructed from three million cubic yards of garbage and clay, earning it the nickname "Mount Trashmore." Today, this man-made hill serves as a popular recreational area, offering not just hiking but also birdwatching opportunities and a unique vantage point over the surrounding preserve. It's a testament to how a former gravel pit can be transformed into a beloved natural feature.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

277 m

Silver Lake

Highlight • Lake

Silver Lake is part of the Blackwell Forest Preserver complex of small ponds. Silver Lake itself is noted as a good fishing lake, and it is in a serene, tranquil setting. Here, there are a series of steps going down to the lakeside from the trail, where there are some picnic benches. It makes for a nice place to take a look at this beautiful lake.

Tip by

1.28 km

Mount Hoy Summit

Highlight • Summit

Path to summit is for walking, but if it's dry, you can crank it up the gravel to the top.

Tip by

2.02 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

1.14 km

516 m

317 m

Surfaces

1.66 km

234 m

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Sunday 11 October

24°C

12°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 11.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difficulty level of the Mount Hoy Trail?

The Mount Hoy Trail is generally considered easy by komoot, but local descriptions suggest a moderate experience due to some distinct uphill portions and varied terrain. While parts are flat, you might encounter roots and potential blockages, especially on the 'backside of Mt Hoy'.

Is the Mount Hoy Trail a loop or an out-and-back route?

The komoot route for the Mount Hoy Trail is designed as a loop, allowing you to experience different sections of the trail without retracing your steps.

Where can I park to access the Mount Hoy Trail?

The Mount Hoy Trail is located within Blackwell Forest Preserve. You can typically find parking at designated areas within the preserve, which provide direct access to the trailheads.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?

Yes, dogs are welcome on the Mount Hoy Trail. Please ensure they are kept on a leash at all times, as per Blackwell Forest Preserve regulations.

Do I need a permit or is there an entrance fee for Blackwell Forest Preserve?

Generally, there is no entrance fee or permit required for day use of Blackwell Forest Preserve, which includes access to the Mount Hoy Trail. However, it's always a good idea to check the official DuPage County Forest Preserve District website for any updated regulations or specific activity permits.

What kind of scenery and wildlife can I expect to see?

As you hike the trail, you'll be immersed in a natural, forested environment. Expect scenic views, especially around Silver Lake, and opportunities for wildlife observation within the Blackwell Forest Preserve.

What are the notable points of interest along the route?

The trail offers views of Silver Lake and leads to the Mount Hoy Summit, which provides a distinct uphill portion and scenic vantage points.

What is the best time of year to hike the Mount Hoy Trail?

The trail is enjoyable in various seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. While it's a great hiking spot in warmer months, Mount Hoy transforms into a popular snow tubing destination in winter, offering a unique experience if there's sufficient snow.

Is the trail suitable for families with children?

Given its easy to moderate difficulty and relatively short distance, the Mount Hoy Trail can be suitable for families with children. The varied terrain and points of interest like Silver Lake and the summit can keep younger hikers engaged.

Does the trail intersect with other paths?

Yes, the route primarily follows the official Mount Hoy Trail, covering about 94% of its length. Within Blackwell Forest Preserve, you may find connections to other paths that allow for longer explorations.

What should I know about visiting the trail in winter?

During winter, especially with at least three inches of snow, Mount Hoy becomes a popular snow tubing hill, featuring one of Illinois' longest runs. If you plan to hike in winter, be prepared for snowy or icy conditions, and be aware of potential snow tubing operations.