Download a Trail Map
The first phase of the Kickapoo Rail Trail is now open! Work on the trail began in the spring of 2016 and the 6.7 mile Urbana to St. Joseph trail segment is open to the public for hiking, biking, and other non-motorized uses.
The multi-purpose recreational trail will extend 24.5 miles to Kickapoo State Park in Vermilion County. The trail is designed for pedestrians and bicyclists to traverse some of the most diverse ecosystems in this part of the state, including woodland, prairie, and wetland.
Click here to see how you can access the trail.
The natural resources of this area provided prehistoric peoples, Native Americans and early non-native immigrants with the materials they needed to survive. This rich environment allowed local populations to settle, grow, and develop new technologies, leading to the 1869 construction of the railway that will serve as the base of the Kickapoo Rail Trail. This line, originally the Indianapolis, Bloomington, and Western Railway, will allow travelers of today to ride and walk in the footsteps of Native Americans, early settlers, and even the young attorney Abraham Lincoln, who rode a nearby route on horseback as part of the 8th Judicial Circuit.
To become part of the exciting project, you can make a tax-deductible donation by check, payable to Kickapoo Rail Trail, or online at the link below.
Donate Online Today
Christie Clinic Illinois Marathon – Friday, April 27-Saturday, April 28, 2018 at Champaign, Illinois
Community Used Bike Sale – Saturday, May 5, 2018, at Champaign Cycle, 506 S. Country Fair Dr., Champaign, Illinois, at 10:00 A.M.
The River to Rail Ride – Saturday, June 2, 2018, Kickapoo State Park, 10906 Kickapoo Park Rd, Oakwood, Illinois at 7:00 A.M.
The Apple Pie Ride – Sunday, June 17, 2018 at River Bend Forest Preserve, Mahomet, Illinois, at 1:00 P.M.
The Cherry Pie Ride – Sunday, August 5, 2018 at Homer Lake Forest Preserve, 2573 Homer Lake Rd, Homer, Illinois, at 1:00 P.M.
The Ride to the Depot – Sunday, September 30, 2018 at White Heath Community Center, White Heath, Illinois at 1:00 P.M.
The Pumpkin Pie Ride – Sunday, October 14, 2018 at Lake of the Woods Forest Preserve, Mahomet, Illinois at 1:00 P.M.
If you’re considering running in support of a charity, we’d love you to consider the Kickapoo Rail Trail (KRT)! The first of its kind, long-distance, multi-use recreational trail in east central Illinois, the KRT will be a fantastic asset for runners, cyclists, and everyone who enjoys getting outside. The first 6 ½ miles is open, just in time for your marathon training to kick into high gear. Gifts to the KRT will help us keep momentum going, building 5-plus more trail miles to the Vermilion County line. Thanks for thinking of us as you run and for supporting local trails!
Run for the trail and receive a discount on your registration. Contact Lisa Sprinkle to find out how. Register now for the Illinois Marathon
More information about the trail will be provided as plans develop. Individuals interested in learning more about Kickapoo Rail Trail can get more information by contacting the CCFPD at hq@ccfpd.org or (217) 586-3360. Follow the trail on Facebook and Twitter (@KickapooRT) too.