Highlight • Forest
Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve
Hiking
5.0
(4)
Cycling
5.0
(3)
Running
5.0
(2)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
January 21, 2024
Running
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve
5.0
(4)
22
hikers
5.51km
01:24
10m
10m
The Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve Loop offers a delightful and easy escape into nature, winding through diverse landscapes like freshwater marsh, sedge meadow, and even a peaceful pine forest. You'll traverse wide paths of gravel, mowed grass, and crushed limestone, making for comfortable walking. Keep an eye out for various bird species and deer, as the preserve is a haven for wildlife.
This 3.4-mile (5.5 km) hiking route is rated easy, with a minimal 35 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, and takes about 1 hour and 23 minutes to complete. Parking is available at the preserve, and the well-signed trails are suitable for year-round enjoyment. It's a great option for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a relaxed outdoor experience.
Cuba Marsh is known for its ecological diversity and ongoing restoration efforts, making it a valuable natural area in Lake County. The preserve also connects directly to Citizens Park in Barrington, offering access to additional amenities like a playground. This trail is a fantastic choice if you're seeking a less crowded hiking option with varied scenery.
5.0
(4)
21
hikers
5.38km
01:21
10m
10m
The Cuba Marsh loop offers a delightful and accessible journey through a rich tapestry of ecosystems. You'll traverse wide, well-maintained paths, including crushed limestone and mowed grass, as the trail meanders through open marshland, scattered tree groves, and distinct woodland and grassland sections. Look for the charming boardwalk and the 50-foot-long timber bridge as you explore the diverse scenery, which includes freshwater marsh, sedge meadow, and oak savanna.
This easy 3.3-mile (5.4 km) hiking route, with only 29 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 21 minutes to complete. It's an ideal choice for a relaxed outing, perfect for families or anyone new to hiking. The trails are generally accessible and well-signed, making for a stress-free experience.
Cuba Marsh is a testament to significant restoration efforts, transforming former farmland back into its natural state. The 782-acre preserve is a haven for wildlife, offering excellent birdwatching opportunities for species like pied-billed grebes and American coots, and you might even spot deer. The preserve also connects to Barrington's Citizens Park via a 0.9-mile gravel trail, offering additional amenities like a playground.
3.5
(2)
12
hikers
3.45km
00:52
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 250 m
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Tuesday 23 June
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Max wind speed: 13.0 km/h
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