McHenry County boasts a tapestry of cross-country ski trails, catering to every skill level and preference. Glide through groomed paths that wind through picturesque woodlands, or venture off the beaten track on ungroomed trails, feeling the crunch of fresh snow under your skis.
No matter if you seek gentle slopes or challenging hills, McHenry County has the perfect trail for you. Beginners can find their footing on easy-going routes, while experienced skiers can test their mettle on steeper terrain.
The beauty of cross-country skiing lies in its inclusivity. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete seeking an off-season challenge or a nature enthusiast looking for a peaceful escape, this sport welcomes you with open arms. For the fitness-minded, cross-country skiing is a gift that keeps on giving. It engages your entire body, honing your balance, coordination, endurance, and strength. It’s like a full-body workout disguised as a fun winter adventure!
So as the crisp winter air invigorates your senses, picture yourself gliding effortlessly across a pristine blanket of snow, surrounded by the serene beauty of McHenry County. Cross-country skiing isn’t just a fantastic exercise; it’s an immersive experience that lets you truly connect with the magic of the season.
All information is subject to change and we always recommend contacting the specific locations to verify conditions and availability, especially those that are weather-dependent.
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Cary Cross-Country Skiing Trails
Fel-Pro RRR Conservation Area
While the park has two entrances, the west entrance may be better for cross-country skiing. Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, this site is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 1900 Crystal Lake Rd, Cary, IL 60013
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details
Hickory Grove Highlands Conservation Area
Hickory Grove is actually one of three combined sites and the address listed here is specific to this site. A section of the trail is solar-lit for part of the year so visitors can enjoy cross-country skiing or hiking in the evening. Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, this site is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 500 Hickory Nut Grove Rd, Cary, IL 60013
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details, Status
Kaper Park
Maintained by the Cary Park District, this neighborhood park is composed of over 15 acres, including a playground, shelter, and several soccer fields.
Host: Cary Park District
Address: Georgetown Dr & Cimarron Drive, Cary, IL 60013
Phone: 847-639-6100
Information: Park Details
Lions Park
Maintained by the Cary Park District, Lions Park is home to sledding in addition to cross-country skiing. The park closes at dusk.
Host: Cary Park District
Address: 1200 Silver Lake Rd, Cary, IL 60013
Phone: 847-639-6100
Information: Park Details
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Lyons Prairie & Marsh Conservation Area
Lyons Prairie & Marsh is one of three combined sites and the address listed here is specific to this site. Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, this site is open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 7000 S Hickory Nut Grove Rd, Cary, IL 60013
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details, Status
Sands E Main Street Prairie
Maintained by the Cary Park District, this 64-acre park features walking paths that are available for cross-country skiing during the winter months.
Host: Cary Park District
Address: E Main St, Cary, IL 60013
Phone: 847-639-6100
Information: Park Details
Silver Creek Conservation Area
Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, this 840-acre site is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Silver Creek features several cross-country skiing trails. When there are four inches or more of snow, four miles of north-end trails are groomed for cross-country skiing, and a 1.5 mile, relatively flat, trail loop at the southern end is groomed for skate skiing. A skate ski trail differs from a traditional cross-country ski trail by being packed, but not tracked.
See also the Prairieview Education Center information.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 1009 Rawson Bridge Rd, Cary, IL 60013
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details, Status
The Hollows Conservation Area
Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, this 478-acre site is open daily from sunrise to sunset. During the winter when there are four inches of snow, two miles of trails are groomed for cross-country skiing.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 3804 Hwy 14, Cary, IL 60013
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details, Status
Crystal Lake Cross-Country Skiing Trails
Butternut Preserve
Maintained by the Crystal Lake Park District, Butternut Preserve is located just west of West Elementary School.
Host: Crystal Lake Park District
Address: 9214 Butternut Dr, Crystal Lake, IL
Phone: 815-459-0680
Information: Details
Lippold Park
This 310-acre multi-use park is maintained by the Crystal Lake Park District.
Host: Crystal Lake Park District
Address: 851 W. Route 176, Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Phone: 815-459-0680
Information: Park Details
Prairieview Education Center (Silver Creek Conservation Area)
Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, the Prairieview Education Center is located within the Silver Creek Conservation Area and provides access to the northern cross-country skiing trails. When there are four inches or more of snow, four miles of north-end trails are groomed for cross-country skiing.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 2112 Behan Rd, Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details, Status
Sterne’s Woods & Fen
This 185-acre nature preserve is maintained by the Crystal Lake Park District. Open from dawn to dusk.
Host: Crystal Lake Park District
Address: 5617 Hillside Rd, Crystal Lake, IL 60012
Phone: 815-459-0680
Information: Park Details
Veteran Acres Park
This 140-acre park is a year-round favorite. Maintained by the Crystal Lake Park District, it is a popular winter spot for both cross-country skiing and sledding. Open from dawn to dusk.
Host: Crystal Lake Park District
Address: 431 Walkup Rd, Crystal Lake, IL 60012
Phone: 815-459-0680
Information: Park Details
Harvard Cross-Country Skiing Trails
Rush Creek Conservation Area
Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, in the winter months when 4 inches of snow is present, 2 miles of trails are groomed for cross-country skiing. Trails are on relatively flat terrain, ideal for beginning skiers, while still providing scenic variety and longer lengths for the intermediate skier. Open from sunrise to sunset.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 20501 McGuire Rd, Harvard, IL 60033
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details, Status
Lake in the Hills Cross-Country Skiing Trails
Lake in the Hills Fen Conservation Area
Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, this 408-acre conservation area is open from sunrise to sunset.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 1500 Jefferson St, Lake in the Hills, IL 60156
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details
Marengo Cross-Country Skiing Trails
Coral Woods Conservation Area
Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, this 794-acre conservation area is open from sunrise to sunset. It features 1.5 miles of trail that is open for cross-country skiing. While the trail is not groomed, it is on relatively flat terrain, ideal for beginning skiers.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 7400 Somerset, Marengo, IL 60152
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details
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H.U.M. (Huntley-Union-Marengo) Trail
Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, this paved trail primarily serves walkers, runners, and cyclists, but also doubles for cross-country skiing trails in the winter when there is at least 4″ (ungroomed) of snow.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: S Prospect St and E Prairie St, Marengo, IL 60152
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details
Marengo Ridge Conservation Area
Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, this 818-acre conservation area is open from sunrise to sunset. Marengo Ridge is suitable for both beginners as well as intermediate cross-country skiers.
Glide through blanketed woodlands and stride across the frozen prairie on cross-country skis. When there are four or more inches of snow, skiers can enjoy over four miles of groomed trails. There is a 2.2-mile trail designated for beginners, as well as a 2.3-mile trail for intermediate skiers.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 2411 N Rte 23, Marengo, IL 60152
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details, Status
McHenry Cross-Country Skiing Trails
Moraine Hills State Park
Moraine Hills State Park features over 10 miles of multi-use trails that can be used for cross-country skiing during the winter months. Park access can vary during different times of the year and seasons, so be sure to check the site or contact them for specific hours.
Host: IL DNR
Address: 1510 S River Rd, McHenry, IL 60051
Phone: 815-385-1624
Information: Park Details
Stickney Run Conservation Area
Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, the west trail loop provides .8 miles and the east trail loop provides .69 miles of cross-country skiing. Open from sunrise to sunset.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 3216 West State Park Rd, McHenry, IL 60050
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details
XC-Skiing Tips
- Warm up and stretch: Before you hit the trails, do some light cardio and dynamic stretches to prepare your muscles.
- Hydrate regularly: Even if you don’t feel thirsty, drink water before, during, and after your ski.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Watch out for other skiers, obstacles, and changing weather conditions. Remember that many of the trails in McHenry County are multi-use.
- Ski within your limits: Don’t push yourself too hard, especially when starting out. Take breaks when you need them.
- Dress in layers: Wear moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a windproof outer layer. Layer your clothing so you can adjust throughout your ski. Don’t forget warm socks, gloves, and a hat!
- Start on flat terrain: Get comfortable with basic balance and movement before tackling hills. Learn the diagonal stride technique: glide one ski forward while pushing off with the opposite pole and leg.
- Practice poling: Proper poling technique is crucial for propulsion and balance. Keep your arms bent at 90 degrees and plant your poles slightly behind your toes for each push.
- Don’t be afraid to fall: Getting comfortable with falling will help you stay relaxed and confident on the trails. Learn how to get up safely and efficiently.
- Have fun! Cross-country skiing is a great way to get exercise, enjoy nature, and spend time with friends and family.
Ringwood Cross-Country Skiing Trails
Glacial Park Conservation Area
This massive conservation area is Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District and is home to year-round activities, including sledding and snowmobiling trails, in addition to cross-country skiing. Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 6705 State Rte 31, Ringwood, IL 60072
Phone: 815-678-4532 (Lost Valley Visitor Center), 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details, Status
Prairie Trail North
Prairie Trail North is part of the 26 miles of bike and walking trail, that may also serve for cross-country skiing with enough snowfall. While accessible from various locations between Algonquin to Richmond, the address here is for Glacial Park.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 6705 State Rte 31, Ringwood, IL 60072
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details
Spring Grove Cross-Country Skiing Trails
Chain O’ Lakes State Park
Located in both McHenry and Lake Counties, the Chain O’ Lakes State Park provides year-round outdoor fun. The horse trail, bike trails, and Nature’s Way trail may be used for cross-country skiing during the winter months when snowfall is sufficient. Open daily in the winter months from 8:00 am to sunset.
Host: IL DNR
Address: 8916 Wilmot Rd, Spring Grove, IL 60081
Phone: 847-587-5512
Information: Park Details
Wonder Lake Cross-Country Skiing Trails
Harrison Benwell Conservation Area
Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, this 75-acre park features 1.6 miles of cross-country skiing trails. Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 7055 McCullom Lake Rd, Wonder Lake, IL 60097
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details, Status
Be sure to see our other winter guides too!
Woodstock Cross-Country Skiing Trails
Bates Park
This 23-acre park is open daily from dawn to 10 pm.
Host: Woodstock Recreation Department
Address: 1450 Seminary Rd, Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details
Hennen Conservation Area
This 25-acre park is open daily from dawn to dusk.
Host: Woodstock Recreation Department
Address: 4622 Dean St, Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: 815-338-4363
Information: Park Details
Brookdale Conservation Area
Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, this conservation area features a 1-mile looped trail, especially ideal for advanced skiers due to the steepness of the trail. Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 2105 Paulson Rd, Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details
Emricson Park
Emricson is Woodstock’s largest park, at 130-acres. The park is regularly open daily from 5 am to 11 pm.
Host: Woodstock Recreation Department
Address: 900 West South St, Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: 815-338-4363
Information: Park Details
Pleasant Valley Conservation Area
Maintained by the McHenry County Conservation District, this conservation area provides visitors an opportunity to try snowshoeing and cross-country skiing (when there are at least 4 inches of snow) on 2.7 miles of groomed trails that are perfect for beginners or those skiers who like a longer route.
Additionally, a .5-mile solar-lit trail located on the east side of the entrance, is open until 9 p.m. daily, November through March to allow visitors to get out on the trails after dark.
Host: McHenry County Conservation District
Address: 13315 Pleasant Valley Rd, Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: 815-338-6223
Information: Park Details, Status
Raintree Park
This small 2.59-acre park is open from dawn to dusk.
Host: Woodstock Recreation Department
Address: 401 E Lake St, Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: 815-338-4363
Information: Park Details
Ryders Wood
This 21-acre park is open from dawn to dusk.
Host: Woodstock Recreation Department
Address: 751 E Kimball St, Woodstock, IL 60098
Phone: 815-338-4363
Information: Park Details
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President and Founder of Identity Developments, LLC, the parent company of the McHenry Life website. My hope for McHenry Life is to create a resource and destination for the residents and businesses of McHenry County alike. A place where residents can discover new places to explore, fun events and ways to spend time, and then share those experiences with others. A place where businesses can connect with existing and potential customers, and not simply market their businesses, but share their own unique stories.
