The best walks and hikes around Curran
4.7
(3)
21
hikers
6
hikes
Hiking around Curran features a landscape characterized by gentle creek valleys and established trail networks. The region offers routes through local natural areas and along extended paths, with minimal elevation changes. These trails provide opportunities to explore the local environment.
Best hiking trails around Curran
- The most popular hiking route is Lick Creek Wildlife Preserve, a 3.2 miles (5.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 20 minutes to complete. This easy path offers a pleasant walk through a natural preserve.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Polecat Creek and Interurban Trail Loop, an easy 4.7 miles (7.6 km) path. This route follows creek lines and established interurban trails, offering varied scenery.
- Local hikers also love the Sangamon Valley Trail, a 16.2 miles (26.1 km) trail leading through open countryside, often completed in about 6 hours 40 minutes.
- Hiking around Curran is defined by creek-side paths and open trails, with options for both easy, shorter walks and more challenging, longer routes. The network offers options for different ability levels.
- The routes in Curran are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2 reviews. More than 14 hikers have used komoot to explore Curran's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
5.17km
01:20
20m
20m
Enjoy an easy 3.2-mile hike through shaded woodlands at Lick Creek Wildlife Preserve, featuring ancient trees and lake views.
4.0
(1)
3
hikers
7.62km
01:57
20m
20m
Hike the easy 4.7-mile Polecat Creek and Interurban Trail Loop near Lake Springfield, featuring the Lake Springfield Bridge.
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5.0
(1)
2
hikers
2.99km
00:46
10m
10m
Hike the easy 1.9-mile Sangamon Valley Trail loop in Lewis Park, offering diverse scenery from woodlands to prairie and treetop river views.
2
hikers
3.15km
00:48
10m
10m
Hike the easy 2.0-mile West Lick Creek Trail in Lick Creek Preserve, featuring shaded woodlands, roots, and an old cemetery.
26.1km
06:39
70m
70m
Hike the difficult 16.2-mile Sangamon Valley Trail, gaining 241 feet in elevation with diverse scenery and treetop river views.
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Tips from the Community
Just a few meters south of the parking lot at Old Chatham road, you need to cross that little bridge over Lick Creek to get to the western trails.
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In the west of Lick Creek, you will find these trails that were used as renegade motorcycle trails back in the 70s. Nowadays, they are multi-use trails for hiking, running and bicycling. To get there, use Old Chatham Road. You will find a parking lot just before crossing Lick Creek.
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Great viewing point from the bridge over Sangamon River.
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The Sangamon Valley Trail is an 11.5 mile long multi-use trail, starting in the southwest of Springfield, close to Centennial Park. Its construction was split into a southern (opened to the public in 2011) and northern part (opened to the public in 2017). The trail is partly shaded and includes some bridges and a lot of nice nature.
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Nice park in the very southwest of Springfield and very close to the Sangamon Valley Trailhead. The park includes a playground, baseball fields, a dog park and much more. Very nice spot to enjoy a warm afternoon.
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Polecat Creek Trail lies directly next to the Interurban Trail (Illinois) and is certainly worth a visit. It's a multi-use trail for bikers and hikers and a nice spot to take a little walk in the woods.
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This bridge, crossing Lake Springfield, runs parallel to the Iron Bridge a little further to the east. In contrast to Iron Bridge, this bridge is for walking and biking only, and no cars can cross here. The bridge is part of the Interurban Trail (Illinois) and offers a nice view.
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Right after the parking lot there is a small shelter with some picnic tables and a little playground nearby. If you follow the path a little further, you will reach the trailhead, from where you can start your walk through Lewis Park & Trails.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Curran?
There are 6 hiking trails available around Curran. These routes primarily feature gentle creek valleys and established trail networks, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
Are there easy hiking options suitable for beginners in Curran?
Yes, Curran offers several easy hiking options. Out of the 6 available trails, 5 are rated as easy, making them suitable for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk. An example is the Lick Creek Wildlife Preserve, which is 3.2 miles (5.2 km) long and takes about 1 hour 20 minutes.
What is the typical terrain like on hiking trails in Curran?
The terrain around Curran is generally characterized by gentle creek valleys and established trail networks. You can expect paths that follow creek lines and interurban trails, with minimal elevation changes, making for generally accessible and pleasant walks.
Are there any family-friendly hiking routes in Curran?
Many of the trails in Curran are suitable for families due to their easy difficulty and minimal elevation gain. Routes like the West Lick Creek Trail offer a straightforward experience through natural areas, perfect for a family outing.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Curran?
While specific regulations can vary by trail, many natural areas and established trails in regions like Curran are generally dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always best to check local signage or specific trail guidelines before heading out with your pet.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Curran?
Yes, you can find circular routes in Curran. The Polecat Creek and Interurban Trail Loop is an example of a circular path that allows you to experience varied scenery along creek lines and established interurban trails without retracing your steps.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Curran?
The best time to hike in Curran generally aligns with pleasant weather conditions, typically spring, summer, and fall. These seasons offer comfortable temperatures for exploring the creek valleys and established trails. The region's natural beauty, with its wildlife and flora, is particularly vibrant during these months.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Curran?
The hiking trails around Curran are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the accessibility of the trails, the peaceful natural settings, and the opportunity to explore local creek valleys and established paths.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes available in Curran?
While many trails are easy, Curran does offer a longer option for those seeking a more challenging experience. The Sangamon Valley Trail is a difficult 16.2-mile (26.1 km) route that leads through open countryside, typically taking around 6 hours 40 minutes to complete.
Are there opportunities for wildlife viewing while hiking in Curran?
Yes, the natural areas around Curran, with their creek valleys and forests, provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. The broader region is known for its diverse wildlife, including various bird species and other local fauna, making for an engaging experience for nature observers.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see along the trails?
Hiking trails in Curran often feature gentle creek valleys, such as those along Lick Creek and Polecat Creek, and established interurban trails. The landscape provides a mix of open countryside and natural preserves, offering a pleasant environment for exploration.
Most popular routes around Curran
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