Skip to main content
Shedd Aquarium

Things To Do

Places To Go in Illinois

Plan Your Trip

Accessibility in Illinois

Hennepin Canal Bike Paths

16006 875 E. St., Sheffield, IL 61361

Biking

Ride up and down a piece of Illinois history!

The Hennepin Canal Parkway follows an old towpath that was actually never used, although the locks and aqueducts are in still in place. It was originally built to link the Illinois and Mississippi rivers. The 105-mile path is level and easy; however, water is scarce along the way (found only at locks 21, 22 and the Visitor Center), so be sure to bring plenty, especially during hot days. The landscape varies from forest to grasslands to marsh to farmland, and the trail is particularly pleasing during fall, when the leaves are changing colors. The Hennepin Canal Parkway has become a cyclist's paradise and an exceptional spot for fishing, birding, horseback riding and a wealth of outdoor recreation.

Images

Hennepin Canal IOT 4

How to find us?

Back to Listings

You might also be interested...

Hennepin Feeder Canal Trail

Sheffield

Hennepin Feeder Canal Trail provides an outdoor recreational trail to the Rock Falls area.

Read more about Hennepin Feeder Canal Trail

Share your Moments

#EnjoyIllinois

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.