TLC hosts series of self-guided bike rides throughout McHenry County in August

The Land Conservancy of McHenry County, a local nonprofit land trust, invites the community to explore McHenry County by bicycle in a series of three daytime scavenger hunt bike rides during the month of August. The cost is $15 or $5 for children.

Proceeds from the event benefit TLC and land preservation in McHenry County. Participants can learn more and register at www.tlcnightowl.org.

In years past, TLC has hosted the "Night Owl" ride, a popular group nighttime bike ride with up to 500 participants cycling the streets and trails of Crystal Lake.

To ensure a safe, healthy and fun experience for all, TLC has re-imagined the "Night Owl" into a series of three self-guided scavenger hunt rides on McHenry County trails.

Each trail will be marked with QR codes highlighting points of interest and natural landmarks along the route, providing a way for riders to see and learn more about McHenry County from a new perspective.

Detailed maps and information will be provided to registered riders.

Participants are encouraged to explore each route at their own time and pace throughout the month of August. The routes include options for a shorter, family-friendly ride as well as a longer ride for experienced cyclists. Registered riders will have the opportunity to enter drawings for prizes.

The three routes include:

• Urban Adventure: Ride through the city and parks of Crystal Lake (9.6 miles up to 21.5 miles)

• Country Roads: Ride between MCCD Pleasant Valley in Woodstock, Village of Union and the City of Marengo (12 miles or 20.5 miles)

• Nature Trails: Ride between MCCD Glacial Park, Village of Richmond and Village of Hebron (up to 24 miles)

For more information and to register, visit www.tlcnightowl.org.

The Land Conservancy of McHenry County would like to thank its sponsors Heartland Realtor Organization, Blazing Star Nursery, Duke's Alehouse, Country Donuts, The Bike Haven, Wheel Werks, Mackie Consultants, Christopher Burke and Davey Tree Company for helping to make this event possible.

The Land Conservancy of McHenry County is a member-based, private nonprofit dedicated to preserving natural, scenic and agricultural land. Since 1991, The Land Conservancy has helped protect more than 2,500 acres of McHenry County's prairies, wetlands and woodlands by working with private landowners, communities and other partners. They do this by accepting donated conservation easements and direct acquisition of property (through purchase or donation).

For information on the nonprofit, visit conservemc.org or www.facebook.com/ConserveMC/.