Conservation District Trail

Illinois

2 Reviews

North of the Sangamon River crossing, the Conservation District Trail closely follows Stevens Creek through a flat and dense wetlands forest on the west end of Decatur. South of the river, the trail ascends two steep grades to end at the Rock Springs Environmental Center. Along the way, it goes through deciduous woodland and passes a small lake, a pine forest, and restored native prairie. There are many things to do and see at the Rock Springs Nature Center; see the link under "Explore Related Content."

At the north end of the trail, you can continue your journey on two scenic trails: the 4-mile Stevens Creek Bikeway, which heads north, or the Fairview Park Trail, which runs nearly 2 miles eastward.

Parking and Trail Access

There is convenient access to the north end of the trail from its connection to the Fairview Park Trail, but the only direct trail access is at the Rock Springs complex (3939 Nearing Lane) on the south end. To get to the main parking lot there, take State Route 48 southwest from Decatur; turn right onto Rock Springs Road (County Road 10), and right again onto Brozio Lane. There you will come to the park entrance on the left; continue around the access road until it ends at the parking lot.

Decatur IL trails

October 2015 rfrasmus

The 5 trails shown on the west side of Decatur all intersect, so you can enjoy over 20 miles of continuous paved bike trail all through natural areas and parks.

A Trek on the Quiet Side

October 2012 wilhelmggw

The two big hills on this trail are a real challenge going up, but the downhill payback is oh, so sweet! And it's a beautiful trail, hills or no hills. The environs of this trail are all about nature conservation. It's a great trail for seeing nature--from the trail itself, to its connecting hiking trail, to the displays and activities at Rock Springs Center. This is a great trail for getting away from the noise and bustle of the city. It's really close at hand from the Fairview Park Trail hub.