Built on a former rail bed dating back to the 1850s, the Stone Bridge Trail provides a crushed limestone pathway through rural countryside. A highlight of the trail is passage on Stone Bridge over the scenic South Kinnikinnick Creek. Built in 1882, the double-arch bridge is included on the National Register of Historic Places. On its eastern end, the trail connects to the
Long Prairie Trail, continuing the journey through gently rolling hills, wooded areas and farmland.
To begin at the west end of the trail, exit I-90 at Rockton Road and go west about 1 mile to the trail entrance on the south side of Rockton Road just before the US 251 overpass. Parking is available for about 15 cars.
To begin at the east end of the trail, exit I-90 at Illinois Rte. 173 and turn right (east) on 173. Travel about half a mile to the light at Belvidere Road, then turn left. Proceed 3/4 mile to Atwood Road. Turn right and go about 1/4 mile to the Roland Olson Forest Preserve entrance. At the park entrance, parking is available for 10 cars, as well as water, restrooms and access to both the Stone Bridge Trail and the Long Prairie Tail.
I hiked the length of the trail and back 12-12-11. The dog and I both had a good time.
I posted a bunch of pictures and video on my blog.
http://ilbob.blogspot.com/2011/12/12-12-11-stone-bridge-trail-117-mile.html
This was a longish hike for ...
A beautiful, smooth path. The surface is very finely crushed gravel and dirt - no problem with traction even for a bike with street tires. The stone bridge, which is on the National Register of Historic places, is a must-see. There is a long, zig-zag ...