Description
The Hennepin Canal Parkway Trail follows an old towpath along this historic canal, which opened in 1907 as a link between the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers. The canal was abandoned when railroads made carrying goods by canal obsolete. The canal is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The entire parkway spans across five counties in Illinois with its western terminus in the Quad Cities Region in Rock Island and Henry Counties. The Hennepin Canal provides a wide variety of recreational activities including fishing, boating, picnicking, canoeing, walking horseback riding, bicycling, camping, and snowmobiling.d snowmobiling.
Other Information
The Hennepin Canal Parkway Visitor Center is located just outside the QC Region, near Sheffield, Illinois (one mile south of I-80, just west of Route 40). East or westbound travelers on I-80 should take Exit 45, turn right (south) on Route 40. Then almost immediately cross the Canal and in about 1 mile is the brown sign directing them to the Parkway Visitors Center. Turn right (west) and proceed to the Center. For more info, call 815-454-2328.
The Rock River Trail is a system of recreational trails on and along the Rock River that goes through 11 counties in Wisconsin and Illinois. This QC Trails featured trail is part of that network. The Rock River Trail was established in 2010 to promote recreational use and appreciation of all 320 miles of the Rock River. Visit the trail online to learn more about how to hike, bike, paddle, horseback ride, drive, fly, or appreciate history, art, or chocolate along the trail!
Elevation Profile
The elevation profile above approximates terrain along the specified section of trail and is provided for general information. Use your best judgment to choose trails with elevation changes to match your comfort level. See QC Trails Terms of Use for more information.
Trail Manager
Visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources Hennepin Canal State Trail online for more information or contact:
2528 58th Ave W
Milan, IL 61264
(309) 787-2795
Greenways and Trails Program
One Natural Resources Way
Springfield, IL 62702-1271
(217) 782-6302
View website
Nearby Geocaches
Trail Map
Trailhead Information
Parking and access are available off of Big Island Road in multiple locations and at the end of 14th Street NE/Frontage Road.
