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This path runs along the west side of the North Alpine Road in the Village of Machesney Park. It starts at the Schnuks parking lot and stretches about a mile north to the Lowe’s store parking area. The path separates bike and pedestrian traffic and though fairly new, has been eagerly received by residents, including the students of Harlem High School who use the east side path to safely get to school. At the southern end of the trail, bicyclists can pass through the Schnuks parking lot to the on-street bike lanes on Harlem Road.
The trail connects to other off-road pathways in the area. It intersects with the Willow Creek Path at Minns Road. There is a crosswalk to get from the west to the east side of the road where that path ends. Taking the Willow Creek Path from Harlem to Rock Cut State Park allows users to access the Rock River Recreational Path.
The path is paved with asphalt, except for a short section by the cemetery which is concrete. It was plowed during the 2016/17 winter but not salted. Be aware that the path is only a few feet from Alpine Road most of the way so snow may get thrown up on the road side of the path when it snows.
Best bets for parking are probably Schnucks, Lowes, and Harlem High School. Willow Creek Trail abuts Harlem High school so it is about 1/3 of the way from the northern end of the path.
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