Buck Tail and Mallard Lake Loop

The trailhead for the Buck Tail and Mallard Lake Loop is conveniently located within Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park. Parking is available at the lot shared with the Lakehouse Cafe, providing easy access to the start of your hike.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Buck Tail and Mallard Lake Loop. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash and to check the latest regulations for Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park or the Mallard Lake Forest Preserve before your visit to ensure compliance with any specific rules.

The Buck Tail and Mallard Lake Loop can be enjoyed year-round, but summer is particularly rewarding for birdwatching, with egrets, geese, ducks, and herons frequently spotted around Mallard Lake. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage.

There is no entrance fee required for the Mallard Lake Forest Preserve or Creve Coeur Lake Memorial Park to access the Buck Tail and Mallard Lake Loop. Permits are generally not needed for day hiking on this trail.

The loop offers a varied hiking experience with a mix of paved and natural, rocky paths. You'll traverse bottomland woodlands, seeps, and marshes, and a portion of the trail climbs out of the bottomland to elevated plateaus atop the bluffs, providing diverse landscapes.

Along the route, you'll enjoy scenic views of both Mallard Lake and Creve Coeur Lake. The trail also passes through bottomland woodlands, seeps, and marshes, offering a chance to appreciate the old Missouri River Bluffs. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially around Mallard Lake.

Yes, the Buck Tail and Mallard Lake Loop is generally considered an easy hike, making it suitable for beginners and families. Its relatively short distance of approximately 4.9 km and minimal elevation gain contribute to a relaxing and accessible outdoor experience.

Yes, the Buck Tail and Mallard Lake Loop shares sections with other official trails. You'll find that portions of your route overlap with the North Central DuPage Regional Trail, Buck Tail Trail, and Mallard Lake Trail, offering connections to a wider network of paths within the park.

Yes, a portion of the trail specifically around Mallard Lake is designated for foot traffic only. This helps enhance the serenity of your hike by separating walkers from cyclists and rollerbladers, allowing for a more peaceful experience.

The Buck Tail and Mallard Lake Loop is a haven for birdwatching, especially around Mallard Lake. You can often spot native species such as egrets, geese, ducks, and herons, particularly during the summer months. The diverse habitats also support other local wildlife.

The Buck Tail and Mallard Lake Loop is approximately 4.9 kilometers (3 miles) long and typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace. This duration can vary depending on your speed and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.