I have this desire to make getting out in nature with my family more of a priority. We never regret a day immersed in the beauty of the outdoors. It's good for your mental and physical health and for tuckering those littles out for a good nap time!
We live in an amazing area for hiking and exploring nature. Honestly, we have SO many hiking trails in and around Peoria that I'm not sure I could list them all. Here are some of the more popular ones with a few hidden gems as well.
Tips: Always carry plenty of drinking water, wear sunscreen, a hat, and appropriate footwear. And remember, always carry out what you bring in.
An article with more tips:
- 11 Tips for Hiking with Toddlers
- Check out the AllTrails App to help you explore over 400,000 trails with trail info, maps, detailed reviews, and more!
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DIFFICULTY: EASY TO MODERATE
Spring Creek Preserve - This beautiful preserve boasts 262 acres of wooded bluffs, bottomland, and old farm fields. There are many marked hiking trails. It is home to birds, wildlife, wildflowers, trees, and shrubs.
- Porta-Pottys
- Gravel parking lots at each entrance
- Dogs allowed
Address: Spring Creek Rd. (Valley) Entrance | 22001-22199 N Spring Creek Rd East Peoria, IL
Bluff Entrance: 22222 Grosenbach Rd, East Peoria, IL
Forest Park Nature Center |
DIFFICULTY: EASY TO MODERATE
Forest Park Nature Center - Forest Park Nature Center has it all! With seven miles of hiking trails through both forested woodlands and prairie openings you can enjoy the outdoors and amazing wildlife views. You can also attend one of their many classes and events.
- Restroom in center
- Paved parking lot
- No dogs allowed
Address: 5809 N Forest Park Dr, Peoria Heights, IL
Detweiller Park |
DIFFICULTY: EASY TO MODERATE
Detweiller Park - Enjoy over 5 miles of hiking along the Illinois River Bluffs. The kids will love playing on the playgrounds before or after a hike!
- Seasonal Restrooms
- Parking lots
- No dogs allowed in nature preserve
Address: 8327 North Galena Road, Peoria, IL
Farmdale Reservoir |
DIFFICULTY: EASY TO MODERATE
Farmdale Reservoir - The whole family will enjoy hiking here! Farmdale Reservoir is managed by the Army Corps of Engineers and boast about 15 well-maintained trails. You'll might encounter a horseback rider or BMX-er on your hike as well! After your hike you can take a dip in the amazing creek!
- No restrooms
- Parking lots
- Dogs allowed
Address: Bittersweet Lane East Peoria, IL
Singing Woods Nature Preserve |
DIFFICULTY: EASY TO MODERATE
Singing Woods Nature Preserve - Singing woods in the perfect place to take a nice easy stroll in nature. It also offers more rugged trails for those looking for more of a challenge.
- Restroom in visitor center
- Parking lot
- No dogs allowed
Address: 715 W Singing Woods Road Edelstein, IL
Rocky Glen |
DIFFICULTY: MODERATE
Rocky Glen - Known around here as the "Miniature Starved Rock", your family will have a blast exploring here! You'll see a waterfall (if there's been rain of course), unique rock formations, and marvelous views of Peoria!
- No restrooms
- Small parking lot
- Dogs allowed
- Free guided tours may be arranged through Rocky Glen Steward, David Pittman at 309-573-2354 OR dvdgpittman@gmail.com
Address: 525 N Kickapoo Creek Rd, Peoria, IL
Rock Island Trail |
DIFFICULTY: EASY TO MODERATE
Rock Island Trail - 13 mile trail that goes through Peoria from the North end to the Riverfront.
Address: Mulitple Trailheads (see map)
Robinson Park |
DIFFICULTY: EASY TO MODERATE
Robison Park - Here you and the family can enjoy a range informal paths to better developed ones.
- Seasonal restrooms
- Parking lots on each side of Mossville Rd.
- No dogs allowed in nature preserve
Address: 400 West Mossville Road, Peoria, IL
Kinsey Park |
DIFFICULTY: EASY TO MODERATE
Kinsey Park - This park is a collaboration between the Peoria Area Mountain Bike Association (PAMBA) and the Peoria Park District. It started out geared toward beginners. As the park has developed more challenging trails have been added. The whole family will have fun here!
- No restrooms
- Parking: wide spot of grass near the entrance
- Dogs allowed
Address: 7999 W Southport Rd, Peoria, IL
Camp Wokanda |
Camp Wokanda - Camp Wokanda is the perfect spot for a family hike! It is an access point to the Illinois River Bluff Trail. The scenic Illinois River Bluff Trail starts at the Lower Valley of Camp Wokanda.
- Restrooms
- Parking lots
- Dogs allowed
Address: 620 E Boy Scout Rd, Chillicothe, IL
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Check out more local resources like The Peoria Hiker to read about some real-life hikes in Peoria. Local Opal, Peoria Outdoor Adventure, and Peoria Park District to see all the wonderful outdoor things Peoria and Central Illinois have to offer!
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