Hike Through Wetlands at Silver Creek Preserve

Hike around a pond, a wetland, and a prairie at Silver Creek Preserve near Mascoutah, Illinois, in the Metro East.

*Information sign by parking in the preserve.*

Overview

The trail is a 1.1-mile paved path through wetlands and prairie grass.

This preserve has plenty of parking and includes restrooms and a picnic shelter.

At the Start

We walked along a paved trail, heading toward the loop section of the path.

I allowed my son to choose the direction, and he pointed left. This part of the trail led to a bridge surrounded by tall grass.

*Signs about nature are found in the park.*

Along the trail, we found signs discussing the wildlife and plants that thrive in a swampy environment.

When we rounded the bend, we gained views of the pond area. ( Main Blog Photo)

By the Creek

Additionally, there is a lookout on the backside overlooking Silver Creek, which flows through the area. It offers an excellent viewpoint. The water was flowing quickly and was muddy today due to the recent rains.

Near the Pond

We rounded the loop and passed another sizeable grassy area before entering a section with more water views.

There were a few additional bridges to cross. The water was clear, so I asked Andrew to look for aquatic life.

We returned to the start of the loop and returned to the car.

Final Thoughts

It was an easy hike on a paved trail with wetlands to explore for wildlife and water plants.

NOTE: Dogs are not allowed here.

DETAILS:

Drive: Take Interstate 55/64 east of downtown St. Louis. Use the right two lanes to take exit 3 for Interstate 64. Then, take exit 19A to merge onto IL-158 W toward Scott A.F. Base. At the first cross street, turn left onto IL-158 W/IL-161 E. Next, turn right onto IL-158 W, followed by a left onto IL-177 E. After that, turn right onto S 10th St. Continue onto Brickyard Road, and look for Silver Creek Preserve.

Hours: Sunrise to Sunset

Admission: Free

Address: 6751 Brickyard Ln, Mascoutah, IL 62258