Canal Road Trail: Lake Chaminwood Preserve

The preserve features expanded parking facilities, making it easy to access the trail. You can find detailed directions and parking information on the reconnectwithnature.org website.

Yes, the trail is considered easy and is very suitable for beginners and families. It features a flat, paved surface with no significant elevation changes, and the preserve is designed with universal accessibility in mind, including its trails, fishing piers, and kayak launch.

You can expect a generally flat and paved surface throughout the trail. There's a 0.7-mile asphalt loop around one of the lakes, and a newer extension is also paved. While some older sections were grass, recent improvements have focused on paved surfaces, ensuring universal accessibility.

The trail offers constant water views of Lake Chaminwood's two lakes. You'll see grasses surrounding the lakes and trees lining the trail edges, with some native prairie wildflowers. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as turtles, muskrats, beavers, squirrels, chipmunks, northern water snakes, great egrets, double-crested cormorants, and great blue herons.

Yes, it does! A newer trail extension along the western lake connects to the extensive Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail via a 90-foot bridge over the I&M Canal. This connection allows for much longer excursions. The route also passes through sections of the ADT - Illinois - I - Seg 2, Grand Illinois Trail - Joliet to Bureau, and Illinois & Michigan Trail.

While the preserve is generally welcoming, specific dog regulations (leash rules, waste disposal) should always be checked on the official reconnectwithnature.org website for the most current information.

Generally, most Forest Preserve District of Will County preserves do not require entrance fees for day use. However, it's always best to verify any specific permit requirements for activities like fishing or kayaking, or for group events, by checking the official reconnectwithnature.org website.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round. Given its paved surface, it's suitable for hiking, biking, and even cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in winter. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures, while summer provides lush greenery. The preserve is also noted as an excellent spot to experience a sunset.

Beyond hiking, the paved trails are ideal for biking, running, in-line skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The lakes are popular for fishing, and there's an accessible kayak launch with a self-serve kayak rental station available.

Major enhancements completed in 2023 and 2024 include expanded parking, two new accessible fishing piers, an accessible kayak launch, and a welcome plaza. A self-serve kayak rental station has also been added, and brush has been cleared to improve lakeside views.

Much of the trail is out in the open, which means it can be quite windy, and sun protection is highly recommended, especially on sunny days. It's also known as an excellent spot to experience a sunset, offering beautiful evening views.