Lincoln Heritage Trail Trailhead

This marked trailhead sits at the northern terminus of Illinois’ premier long-distance hiking trail, which follows Abraham Lincoln’s path from New Salem to Springfield. The trail itself is designed for hikers and equestrians, but the trailhead serves as a key waypoint for overlanders exploring Lincoln country. Small parking area with basic trail information kiosk and vault toilet.

The gravel access road is in good shape year-round. Trail conditions vary seasonally — wet prairie sections can be impassable in spring, bone dry in late summer. Best combined with visits to nearby Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site.

Northern terminus of Illinois' 72-mile Lincoln Heritage Trail