Danada-Herrick Lake Regional Trail

The full route, which is about 11.7 km (7.3 miles) long, generally takes around 3 hours to complete at a moderate hiking pace. This allows time to enjoy the scenery and notable features along the way.

The trail features mostly wide, crushed stone or limestone paths, making it generally easy and accessible. While largely flat, you'll encounter some gentle grades and modest elevation changes. Some sections may also be paved, offering a varied surface for your hike.

Yes, it is considered an easy and family-friendly trail. Its mostly flat terrain and well-maintained paths make it accessible for a wide range of users, including those new to hiking or families with children.

You can expect to see a rich array of wildlife, including various bird species like warblers, sparrows, Eastern Meadowlarks, and Bobolinks. Heron and egrets are common around the wetlands and lakes. Depending on the season, you'll also observe woodland wildflowers and prairie blooms, as the preserves are home to over 700 species of native plants and animals.

The trail passes through the beautiful Herrick Lake Forest Preserve and Danada Forest Preserve. You'll also go by Green Tangerine Pond, Rice Lake, and Rice Lake. A significant highlight is the Danada Equestrian Center, and nearby, the historic Danada House and its visitor gardens. At Herrick Lake, you can enjoy year-round fishing.

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while summer offers lush greenery and active wildlife. Fall showcases beautiful foliage, and in winter, it's open for cross-country skiing, offering a serene experience. Your best time to visit depends on the activities you prefer and the scenery you wish to enjoy.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Dogs are generally welcome in DuPage County Forest Preserves, but they must be kept on a leash at all times and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.

No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required to access the Danada and Herrick Lake Forest Preserves or to use the trails within them. They are open to the public for recreation.

There are multiple parking areas available within both the Danada and Herrick Lake Forest Preserves, providing convenient access points to the trail. Specific parking lots can be found near the Danada Equestrian Center or various access points around Herrick Lake.

Yes, the trail is part of a larger network. It seamlessly connects to other regional pathways, including the Illinois Prairie Path Aurora Spur, and trails within St. James Farm, Blackwell, and the West Branch DuPage River Trail, allowing for longer adventures.

This is a multi-use trail, recognized as a National Recreation Trail. It is open for walking, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing during the winter months, offering a variety of ways to explore the preserves.