The Top 17 Attractions in McHenry County
There are plenty of places to see and visit in McHenry County. Whether you love hiking or cycling, Mchenry County is a region where 17
hidden gems are waiting to be explored and visited. Check the top places to visit in the region and plan your next adventure today.
hidden gems are waiting to be explored and visited. Check the top places to visit in the region and plan your next adventure today.
Last updated: October 10, 2025
The Grand Illinois Trail (GIT) is a multi use hiking and biking trail that is nearly 500-miles long. Initiated in the mid-1990s, the Grand Illinois Trail is now a high …
Tip by
This natural lake is an oasis of calm and peace located in the heart of Moraine Hills. The Lake Defiance Trail encircles it entirely, giving you the opportunity to spot many species of birds.
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Moraine Hills State Park is made up of a collection of paved, dirt, and rocky trails passing by lakes and next to a river. With a few different parking areas, …
Tip by
Veteran Acres Park shines with upland woods, featuring the captivating Wingate Prairie spanning approximately 30 acres. This vibrant ecosystem hosts a variety of captivating flowers, including asters, blazing stars, and …
Tip by
The Prairie Trail, spanning McHenry County, is a key component of the broader Grand Illinois Trail. Covering just over 26 miles, it starts at the Wisconsin border, weaving through northern …
Tip by
This section goes approximately from the Black Tern Marsh viewing platform to near the dam. It is the part of the Fox River Trail closest to the river and is …
Tip by
Nestled next to Veteran Acres Park in Crystal Lake, Wingate Prairie spans 39 acres of rare gravel hill prairie. Its diverse landscape features rolling terrain, oak savanna, and conifer clusters, …
Tip by
Neatly tucked away in the far northeastern corner of McHenry County is this gem of a 521 acre preservation area. It is a conservation area that has biologically rich ecosystems …
Tip by
Runners can wander woodsy trails or connect to the McHenry County Prairie Trail during outings in Sterne’s Fen Nature Preserve. Since gaining Illinois Nature Preserve status in 1994, the site’s …
Tip by
The Grand Illinois Trail (GIT) is a multi use hiking and biking trail that is nearly 500-miles long. Initiated in the mid-1990s, the Grand Illinois Trail is now a high …
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions in McHenry County.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Other adventures in McHenry County
Most popular attractions in McHenry County
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures around London and beyond.
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Are you keen on exploring more awesome places nearby? Browse our guides:
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
Get ready to conquer new peaks
Sign up for Free