Fay Pickering Memorial Trails Ride

Dogs Off-leash

E-Bikes Unknown

The Fay Pickering Memorial Trails consist of four loops that wind through old growth forests alongside Mill Creek Lake. In some areas, the bench-cut trails get you as close to the lake as possible. There are many rolling sections along with a few technical climbs. This trail has something for everyone to enjoy! The trails may be accessed from the main trailhead and parking at 18050-, 18332 N Hammer Rd., Marshall, IL 62441.

This intermediate trail system is contained within the boundaries of Mill Creek Park near Marshall, IL. It is about a 20 minute drive from I-70. It's definitely worth a stop if you're driving through the area! The trailhead is located near the dam. There is also a restroom and pavilion at the trailhead located at 18050-, 18332 N Hammer Rd., Marshall, IL 62441.

From the trailhead, follow Trail B. Trail B ranges anywhere from easy to difficult depending how it is ridden. There are a couple of long and steep climbs (for Illinois) on the east side of this loop. If this trail is ridden as an out and back to these climbs, then this trail can be considered beginner/intermediate. Ridden as a complete loop, this trail deserves an intermediate/difficult rating. About a mile from the TH, bear off onto Trail C.

Trail C is an intermediate trail that winds through old growth forests alongside Mill Creek Lake. Sections of this trail are bench cut into the sides of steep hills that provide amazing views of the lake...along with some fantastic riding.

From Trail C, Trail D follows along the contours of many lake inlets and ravines and offers gorgeous views of Mill Creek Lake. Just under a mile from its beginning, Trail D takes riders along some switchbacks and down to lake level. Riders climb out, and follow higher ground back to Trail C rejoining just east of where Trail D began.

Upon completing the Trail C loop, bear right back onto Trail B and complete the unfinished portion of that loop. You'll wind up back at the TH with the option of completing Trail A which is primarily an intermediate trail; however, a the climbs and technical features puts this trail somewhere between intermediate/difficult.

Trail A is a short one mile loop that really represents what the rest of the trail system has to offer. There are a couple of short yet challenging climbs, along with a couple of technical switchbacks on the south edge of this trail.