Fitchie Creek Forest Preserve Loop

Fitchie Creek is a gentle place of exceptional biological diversity located northwest of the offset corner of Bowes and Nesler Roads in Plato Township. A 40 acre savannah woodland at the southwest corner rises above the meandering creek and nearby, placid 2 acre pond. It is a woods of tall, gracious trees including Lindens, 2 species of Cherry, 2 of Hickory, 3 Ashes and 5 Oaks including one craggy old Bur Oak witness tree that marked the section corner in the first survey of Kane County. The outer expanding rung has a rich assortment of Willows, Aspens, Cottonwoods and Plums, along with grape vines, Raspberries, Elderberries and Currents. A stream that is largely fed by a high quality wetland adjoins this rich array that is a special haven for wildlife. This preserve includes a horseback riding area. Most horse trails are natural surface, mowed grass paths. Limestone screenings trails and asphalt bike trails are available in some of the preserves. These are multi-use trails shared with runners, bicyclists, dog walkers etc. Horse riders are required to stay on designated, forest preserve-maintained trails. Trail riding is not allowed in restricted natural areas, Illinois Nature Preserves, picnic areas or in farmed areas. Individual forest preserves will post a sign at the entrance when horse trails are closed. Trails are currently OPEN for equestrian use at this preserve. Note: Even if equestrian trails are closed at this preserve, the limestone trail will remain open for riding, during preserve hours.