Solar-lit trails allow for nighttime exercise in two forest preserves

Submitted by the Lake County Forest Preserves

Taking an evening hike on solar-lit trails in the forest preserves may be an option for anyone having a hard time getting outside in nature now that the sun sets earlier.

With small solar lights to guide their way, hikers, skiers and snowshoers can get some brisk evening exercise along the 1.3-mile fitness trail at Old School Forest Preserve in Libertyville and along a 1.65-mile hilly section of the Millennium Trail adjacent to the Winter Sports Area at Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda.

"Walking the trails in the evening is a nice way to gain a different perspective of the forest preserves," said Angelo Kyle, president of the Lake County Forest Preserves. "We realize that since the COVID-19 pandemic began, people are utilizing the trails more than ever as a way to improve their well-being."

Though regular preserve hours are 6:30 a.m. to sunset, the illuminated trails and adjacent parking lots will remain open after sunset until 9 p.m. through Sunday, March 13, 2022. Bicycles and horses are not permitted on the lighted trails after sunset. Dogs are allowed, but must be leashed.

To access the lighted trails, park at Lakewood's Winter Sports Area on the east side of Fairfield Road, just south of Route 176, or at Old School's main entrance lot on the east side of St. Mary's Road, just south of Route 176.

Lake County Forest Preserve Rangers regularly patrol the areas.

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