The best hiking spot in Crystal Lake, Illinois is Sterne’s Wood and Fen. We love this trail because it is never crowded, it is a loop, and has enough hills to feel the exercise. Below you will find all the reasons why we love Sterne’s Woods and we know you will too.
1. Loop
Our number one criteria for a hiking trail is a loop. We love seeing new sites and experiencing new sounds. We are not fans of returning down the same trail we started on, boring. So Sterne’s Woods is perfect for a quick loop trail.
2. Hills
Sterne’s Woods has the perfect amount of hills. There are enough to make it seem like your hike was an exercise. There are only a few hills so it makes the trail doable. This is not ideal for strollers or people who have health concerns.
3. Parking Lot
There is a parking lot at the start of the trail. This is really important to us since we do not live in this neighborhood.
4. Shaded Trails
Most of the hike is shaded by large, beautiful trees. We love shaded trails because we do not need to worry about a sunburn or over heating. The puppies and babies love the shade as well.
5. Never Crowded
This trail is never crowded. There are usually 3-4 cars in the parking lot. You pass a few people along the trail, so you feel safe. But the lack of crowds is what we love for our dogs. Fern’s dog is an anxious dog, so lack of crowds allows her to focus on the smells and feel relaxed.
6. Picnic Areas
There is a shelter with picnic tables along with these benches to eat around a fire. Check out this map to see where the picnic area is located. You can reserve the picnic space using this website.
7. Benches
We love the occasional bench that is hanging out in the middle of the woods. Fern loves to just sit and observe the environment. Olive loves to read a book on a good bench.
8. Flowers
Our favorite time to visit Sterne’s is during the spring because of all the flowers.
Coffee Shop: Conscious Cup
After your trip to Sterne’s Woods and Fen, we suggest going to Conscious Cup for a coffee or a snack.
I definitely need to check this place out if i’m ever in the area. Very beautiful.