MCT Nature Trail

The trail is predominantly a paved asphalt surface, making it generally flat and accessible. While the Komoot tour is rated moderate, this is likely due to its length rather than challenging inclines or rugged terrain. It's suitable for various activities, including hiking, cycling, and running.

This specific Komoot tour of the MCT Nature Trail, which covers approximately 13 kilometers (8.1 miles), typically takes around 3 hours and 16 minutes to hike at a steady pace.

The trail offers a diverse range of scenery. You'll pass through wooded areas with various deciduous trees, wind over creeks and waterways, and experience transitions between older city neighborhoods in Granite City and open farmlands. A section also goes through wetlands, and you'll find a spur leading to Horseshoe Lake. You'll also pass by Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) campus, University Park, and Wilson Park.

Yes, the MCT Nature Trail is an integral part of the extensive Madison County Transit (MCT) Trails system. This Komoot tour specifically covers 100% of the Nature Trail, and also passes through sections of the MCT Nickel Plate Trail (15%). Other parts of the broader MCT Nature Trail connect to paths like the MCT Schoolhouse Trail, MCT Bluff Trail, and MCT Goshen Trail, allowing for longer adventures.

The trail is a good spot for observing local wildlife. Common sightings include rabbits, turkeys, and deer. There have also been photographs of bobcats and fawns along the trail and its connecting routes.

Yes, the MCT Nature Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the trail's cleanliness for all users.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Spring brings blooming trees like Flowering Yoshino Cherry, Redbud, and Dogwood, while fall showcases the vibrant colors of October Glory and Red Sunset Maple trees.

Yes, this Komoot tour passes by Mallard Lake, offering a scenic water feature. The trail itself, MCT Nature Trail, is a highlight for its connectivity and diverse environments. Additionally, a section of the trail goes alongside and crosses Chain of Rocks Road, which was once part of Old Route 66.

While specific parking details for this exact Komoot tour are not provided, the MCT Nature Trail, being a major multi-use path, has various access points and parking areas along its 15-mile stretch between Granite City and Edwardsville. Look for designated trailheads or parking lots near the trail in these areas.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access and use the MCT Nature Trail. It is a publicly accessible multi-use trail.

Yes, the MCT Nature Trail is highly suitable for families. Its paved, relatively flat surface makes it accessible for strollers, bikes, and younger hikers. The diverse scenery and opportunities for wildlife spotting add to its appeal for children.