The Best Outdoor Attractions near Galena, IL
Many of our guests come to Galena to escape from the city and unwind in the Illinois countryside. There’s so much for you to do out here that it can be hard to make a concrete plan, which is why we’ve listed some of our favorite things to do when we aren’t lounging in our rooms for the day.
Galena Hiking Trails
It’s time to get moving! Galena has many popular hiking and walking trails to choose from.
Galena River Trail
Difficulty: Easy
The Galena River Trail will guide you along the banks of the river, around Casper Bluff, and to the start of Aiken Trailhead. It’s a must-do trail for any avid hiker, mountain biker, or dog walker. You’ll be able to get some fun pictures of the dam, the old railway station, and local wildlife. Take a look at the map and get those feet moving!
Hiking with Goats
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.25 miles
Address: 616 S Devils Ladder Rd, Galena, IL
Want the most unique hiking experience in Galena? Reserve a day of hiking with everyone’s favorite pack animal—the goat! Hoof It Goat Treks has guides that will lead you through the forest for around 45 minutes, showing you all the best sights in the woods along with their trusty companions.
Pet the goats, feed them, and close your day out with a bonfire. It’s an unforgettable experience super close to The Cloran Mansion.
Casper Bluff
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1.5 miles
Casper Bluff is a fun detour to make off the Aiken Trail or Galena River Trail if you have extra time and want to keep hiking. People sometimes walk this loop multiple times as there’s always something to see.
Horseshoe Mound
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1 mile
The trail starts out strong with stone markers and beautiful views of the Galena river and the town. If you hike while the blackberries are ripe, you’ll be able to grab a snack along the trail (although maybe wash them first). It’s well-kept and interesting the whole way through, but may be a bit steep for some children or older hikers.
aPPLE rIVER cANYON sTATE pARK
Difficulty: Easy
Around 30 minutes east of Galena, you’ll find Apple River Canyon. A beautiful wooded area with lovely limestone formations above the banks of a river. With several hikes running through the foliage and along the shoreline, you’ll surely find something worth exploring.
The River Route Nature Trails are both worth hiking, and none of the other hikes are hilly or difficult at all, making it a fun afternoon trip for young families.
mINES OF sPAIN
We’ve looked to the east and the south, but now let’s look west. Cross the border to Dubique, Iowa, and you’ll find one of the best natural yet historical hiking trails in the region. Mines of Spain offers the perfect location for hiking in the summer, cross country skiing in the winter, and sightseeing all year round.
oUTDOOR Rentals AND SO MUCH MORE
Maybe you’re looking at some of these trails, namely the Galena River Trail, and you’re not wanting to hike them, but instead bike along them. You can find mountain bike rentals at a couple of places in Galena if you haven’t brought your own. There are also some watercraft rentals if you want to spend some time on the river..
If biking and water rentals are not appealing to you, then here are some other adventurous options to choose from.
Address: 336 Spring St, Galena, IL
What they Sell or Rent:
- E-Bikes
- Kayak Rentals
- Guided Fishing Tours
Galena River Outfitters
Address: 527 S Main St, Galena, IL
What they Sell or Rent:
- Mountain Bikes
- Kayaks
- Shuttle Services for River Adventures
- Mountain Bike Adventure Packages
- E-bikes
- Paddleboards
sHENANDOAH rIDING cENTER
Horseback Riding in Galena, IL is incredibly accessible at this local stable. Trail rides can suit expert equestrians or newcomers who’ve never even seen a horse in person before. The horses are even-tempered and patient with anybody—even the youngins.
If you want to experience the beautiful nature around you but don’t want to do all the walking, call up the Riding Center and they’ll get you saddled up with a buddy. Make sure you fit the weight requirements and bring good clothing for the activity.
lONG hOLLOW cANOPY tOURS
Long Hollow is the perfect place to go for teens and adults who love high-speed thrill and daring adventure. With two different adventure options—the Zipline Excursion and the Adventure Park, Long Hollow can make your whole afternoon an adrenaline junkie’s dream.
The Zipline Tour includes a UTV ride through the forest, a rappelling section, six different ziplines, and a jaunt along the sky bridge, and a ride over the trees. The Adventure Park includes 32 different challenges with a zipline ride at the end.
Wow, that’s a lot of stuff to do! If you're looking for a place to rest after all these fun outdoor activities, or you want to book a lovely getaway for yourself so you can do some of these things, check out the rooms at The Cloran Mansion.
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