Old Plank Road Trail: Washington Street to Cedar Road

The estimated hiking time for this 8 km (5 mile) section of the Old Plank Road Trail is approximately 2 hours. This duration can vary based on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The trail in this segment is predominantly flat and features a smooth, paved asphalt surface. While there is a slight, gentle incline over the westernmost 8 miles of the larger trail, this particular stretch is considered easy and suitable for a wide range of users, including those with strollers or wheelchairs.

You'll experience a blend of natural beauty and suburban glimpses. The trail often passes through wooded areas with oak trees, sugar maples, prairie grasses, and wildflowers. While it runs near residential and commercial areas closer to Joliet, a forest buffer frequently screens these developments, maintaining a natural feel.

Specific parking information for the Washington Street trailhead is best found by checking local resources. The Forest Preserve District of Will County often provides details on trailhead parking. You can visit the Reconnect With Nature website for up-to-date parking guidance.

Information regarding public transportation directly to the Washington Street trailhead is not readily available. It's recommended to check local transit authority websites for routes that may serve the Joliet area near the trail's start.

Yes, along this route, you'll pass by Lions Park, which can offer a nice spot for a break. The trail itself is built upon an abandoned railroad line, adding a historical element to your hike.

Yes, this route is part of the larger 22-mile Old Plank Road Trail. It also overlaps with significant portions of the Grand Illinois Trail - Lansing to Joliet and the American Discovery Trail - Illinois - I - Seg 1.

Generally, trails managed by the Forest Preserve District of Will County are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. Always check the official Forest Preserve District website for specific regulations regarding pets on the Old Plank Road Trail.

The paved surface makes this trail accessible year-round. However, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with wildflowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Summer can be warm, so an early morning or late afternoon hike is often preferred.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access the Old Plank Road Trail or other trails within the Forest Preserve District of Will County for general recreational use. However, specific events or activities might have their own requirements. You can confirm this information on the Forest Preserve District of Will County website.

Yes, this section of the Old Plank Road Trail is highly suitable for individuals using wheelchairs or strollers. Its predominantly flat, paved asphalt surface, recently rehabilitated, makes it very accessible for a wide range of users.