The historic Illinois and Michigan Canal was built in 1848, connecting Lake Michigan and the Chicago River to the Illinois River and the Mississippi River. Over the years the canal is no longer used for industry purposes, but has become a landmark for its 89-mile I&M Canal Trail Passage. The I&M Trail begins in Willow Springs, IL heads south towards Joliet and Rockdale then west to LaSalle, IL. The I&M Trail is mostly limestone and dirt as it passes through many small historical towns in northern Illinois, USA. The trail itself is beautiful in many sections and the wildlife along the way provides for an epic journey for many people who chose to hike, run, bike or even camp along the trail all year long. The trail may be completed in either direction.
Variations
- The 89-mile Willow Springs to LaSalle route, which includes the state-owned "I&M Canal State Trail" section below, as well as an assortment of other trails and road connections between Rockdale and Willow Springs.
- The 61.5-mile I&M Canal State Trail subsection of the full route described above, from Rockdale to LaSalle. Added in 2026.
Comments
A friend and I are going to do this route self-supported starting Oct. 3, 2020. Tracking link should be here:Â https://share.garmin.com/carleencoulter
We stopped short at 70 miles. Rainy night ended up in blistered feet! Had a great time though and I really encourage people to go take a shot at this trail!Â
I will be attempting this route self-supported on March 27, 2025.
Congratulations on your finish and self supported time!Â
Thanks, I appreciate it!
Way to go!!!
I’ve established an FKT for the 61.5 mile I&M Canal State Trail on 10/17/2026. You can check out the variation of the route on this page!