The best walks and hikes around Edwardsville

Edwardsville and its surroundings offer a diverse range of hiking experiences. You'll find everything from paved, accessible paths through wetlands and prairies at the Watershed Nature Center to unpaved, variable terrain loops through old-growth forests at Bohm Woods Nature Preserve. The area is also well-connected to the extensive Madison County Transit (MCT) trail system, providing many options for various skill levels.

Yes, Edwardsville has several options perfect for beginners or those seeking an easy stroll. The Watershed Nature Center features a 3,000-foot paved trail and a raised marsh walk, part of which is handicapped accessible. Joe Glik Park offers a pleasant 1.6-mile paved loop, and Leclaire Park has a sidewalk encircling a 2-acre fishing lake, ideal for a relaxed walk.

Many trails in Edwardsville are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before you go. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash on the Madison County Transit (MCT) trails and in many local parks. For natural preserves like Bohm Woods, ensure your dog remains on a leash to protect the delicate ecosystem and wildlife.

Edwardsville offers several family-friendly hiking spots. The Watershed Nature Center is an excellent choice, with its accessible paved trails, boardwalks, and opportunities for birdwatching and nature education. Joe Glik Park's paved loop is also great for families, offering a safe and easy environment for kids to explore.

Yes, you can find several circular routes. Bohm Woods Nature Preserve features an unpaved, approximately 2-mile loop trail winding through its old-growth forest. Joe Glik Park also offers a 1.6-mile paved loop, perfect for a contained and easy circular walk.

Edwardsville's diverse natural areas are home to a variety of wildlife. At the Watershed Nature Center, you might spot over 150 bird species. Bohm Woods Nature Preserve is known for its abundant wildlife, including cerulean warblers, owls, and flying squirrels, especially within its old-growth forest canopy.

Absolutely! The Edwardsville area is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the wetlands, tallgrass prairie, and upland forests of the Watershed Nature Center, or immerse yourself in the rare old-growth forest at Bohm Woods Nature Preserve. The Gardens at SIUE also offer beautiful walking paths amidst vibrant flowers and stunning fall foliage.

Edwardsville offers enjoyable hiking throughout the year, but each season has its unique charm. Spring brings out rare wildflowers in Bohm Woods and vibrant blooms at The Gardens at SIUE. Fall is spectacular with stunning foliage. Summer is great for early morning or late afternoon hikes, and even winter can be beautiful for a crisp walk, especially on the paved trails.

Edwardsville is exceptionally well-connected to the Madison County Transit (MCT) trail system, which boasts over 60 trails covering more than 620 miles. This extensive network provides numerous opportunities for hikers and cyclists to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

While popular spots like the Watershed Nature Center can see visitors, exploring areas like Richards Woods and Drda Woods, which are preserved natural timbered areas, might offer a more secluded experience. Additionally, venturing onto less-traveled sections of the broader Madison County Transit (MCT) trail system can provide greater solitude.