Thursday, September 17, 2009

Harmony Trail, Crab Orchard


After a trip to the Visitor's Center to get our day pass, we drove around the entrance to crab orchard right across from the center. There we found a rest area and a short trail. Harmony Trail is a one mile loop taking you through various habitats. You start out in wooded areas but you also come across a small wetland with a viewing area they flood in the fall and you can see geese there. There are several small ponds you walk near, and also a few clearings. We saw many different bugs and fungi, and one place we walked through a small wetland and there were hundreds of frogs darting to get out of our way. It was a very easy walk, and really pretty. The trail is clearly marked and being a big loop there really is no way to get lost or turned around. It took us about 45 minutes at a leisurely pace. Also, at the beginning/end there is an area with benches the park gives lectures in which is perfect for a quick lunch. There is also a bathroom there with a flushable toilet where the kids can clean up. This trail is perfect for smaller kids who can't walk the longer trails. It's also shaded throughout so even in the heat of afternoon you can keep at it without getting uncomfortable. As with any trail, put bug spray on before, there are bugs and ticks in the area.


Phone: 618-997-3344
8588 Route 148
Marion, IL 62959

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