Fall Colors Hike at LeRoy Oakes forest St Charles, 6.5, 3.75 or 2.5 miles

Optional post hike lunch TBD Summary I've done dozens of local hikes in the Cook/DuPage/Kane area and this is one of my favorites! and the end time is the full 6.5 mile hike. I rate this as an easy hike with one moderate area. The trails are single file in some areas and wide grass in others. In one area there was an incline that was moderate. I didn't need hiking poles however if your new to hiking beware that some areas get rocky and require navigating roots. The trails are all packed dirt or mowed grass. There are a few small areas where horses trampled and have to walk to the side to avoid muddy areas. Sections of this hike go along a wooded bluff with 30 foot drop off and a view of Ferson creek down below. This forest features an old restored school house from the 1800's and an old barn. The trails are shared by horses and dogs on a leash are welcome. This hike is cross posted with Chicagoland Trailblazers Hiking Group https://www.meetup.com/chicagoland-trailblazers-hiking-group/events/316730942 and my guest rsvp includes members of the group. Shorter hike: The shorter options include a 2.7 mile loop and mostly through forest preserve. We'll then explore a small area next to the creek before returning back to the parking lot each time. Longer hike: For a 6.5 mile hike some of us can take the Randall Road trail across Dean road into the Horlock Hill Prairie section of Leroy Oaks. Its in full bloom with yellow, purple, and red native flowers and features tall prairie grasses. Disclaimer: I saw no hill here its flat. This section is part asphalt, crushed limestone and short grass and well maintained. Bathroom Facilities The nature center where we meet does not open until 12. However there is a pit toilet one quarter mile up the road from where we meet. You can drive or walk to it. To find it, look for a big red barn with a silo. Then look toward the right for a fancy red hexagon structure another 50 feet away. At 4.8 miles there is another toilet facility. Where to meet Meet in front of Creek Bend Nature Center Its located within LeRoy Oakes Preserve Address for GPS is: 37W700 Dean St. Saint Charles, IL Note: This preserve has multiple entrances, be sure to use this address in your GPS. Directions: From North Ave (Route 64) go north on 9th street. 9th street is 9 blocks west of the Fox river. Its on the North side of route 64. Once you are on 9th street, it will curve toward the left and become Dean street. Follow Dean street approximately 1.7 miles. You will cross Randall road. There will be a large sign on the right LeRoy Oakes. Turn into the forest preserve drive and go about .3 miles to the first parking lot. That will be Creek Bend Nature Center. Website: http://www.kaneforest.com/ForestPreserveView.aspx?ID=31