Illinois is filled with fascinating hikes including ones with a bit of history. As you hike along the Trail of Tears, the trails on Sylvan Island, or around the old Joliet Iron and Steel Works, you can learn about the past while spending time in nature. If you love to explore historical sites, head to Carpentersville where you can hike on the land that once belonged to an old race track.
The former Meadowdale International Raceway is located within Raceway Woods in Carpentersville. The raceway was in operation from 1958 through 1968 when it saw its last race.
The Raceway Woods Trails is a partially-paved 2.7-mile loop that's rated as moderately difficult. It also experiences a moderate amount of traffic, popular with both hikers and bikers.
Raceway Woods Forest Preserve is a 122-acre parcel of land where the raceway's track once wound its way through. It's a fantastic place to come for nature, bird watching, hiking, biking, and history.
Portions of the original 3.27-mile track can be seen throughout Raceway Woods as well as an old oil silo and part of the Monza Wall, which was once a 180-degree curve along the track.
Along the trail, you can view the Meadowdale Silo, an old Pure Oil silo that was found along the racetrack and is considered a landmark today.
The silo was once in danger of being demolished as nature started to reclaim it and vandals caused damage to it. However, protests to save the structure worked, funds were raised, and the silo was ultimately saved and restored.
Whether or not you're a history buff, you have to appreciate what was once here. It's quite a fascinating hike, to say the least!
Have you hiked or biked along the Raceway Woods Trails? If so, please tell us all about your experience in the comment section.
For more information on the old Meadowdale International Raceway, visit the official website. For trail information, head to the AllTrails webpage.
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