Danada-Herrick Lake Regional Trail

The peaceful surroundings that make up the Danada-Herrick Lake Regional Trail also make up the combined 1,600 acres of Danada and Herrick Lake forest preserves. The trail that winds through the two areas is made from asphalt and crushed rock, providing an easy incline and flat area to hike, jog, or just walk on. There's plenty of lush vegetation on all sides of the trail, including Herrick Lake, woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands.

The trail starts on the north side of the Herrick Lake Forest Preserve, and although there is no parking at the beginning, less then 1/4 of a mile away, there is parking and amenities along Herrick Lake. Along the trail, there are picnic tables, restrooms, water fountains, and cabins. Most of the amenities are at the first landmark of Herrick Lake and for a few miles afterward, there are only benches along the way.

The next major landmark is at the end of the trail in the Danada Forest Preserve, at the Danada Equestrian Center and visitor center. The trail ends here and provides more amenities like parking, water fountains, bathrooms, picnic tables, and benches. Although few amenities are in-between the two endpoints, you'll find plenty of scenes and views to make up for it. Passing through the natural biomes of the area, you and your leashed pup can find over 700 species of native plants and animals, which include woodpeckers, squirrels, white-tailed deer, and owls. There are open fields throughout the trail where you can stop and view them from, and spaces to stop along the river to fish.

Other activities include horseback riding, cross-country skiing, and bicycling. No matter what you decide to do with your pup, the natural splendor of the area will provide you and Fido a peaceful place to walk, explore, and exercise. Just be mindful during the summer and spring months where the trail becomes its most popular and clean-up after your pup.