Spanning 1,775 acres in southeast Illinois, Newton Lake is a prime destination for outdoor recreation of all kinds. The lake is home to some of the state's finest bass fishing, and 540 acres of land around the shoreline are set aside as a protected conservation area. The Newton Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area features a picnic area and more than 20 miles of trails, including a trail set aside specifically for mountain bikers.
About the Trail
- Constructed in 1996, the Newton Lake mountain bike trail winds through shady woodlands and scenic meadows on the west side of the lake for 4.6 miles -- a little more than 9 miles for the full route. The trail surface is mostly packed dirt with a few grassy sections, and the terrain varies from easy to strenuous. A fork in the trail offers cyclists the opportunity to take two paths, and you can choose between the relatively flat inland route or the more challenging lakeside route. The lakeside route includes quick turns, steep ascents and a few rocky creek crossings but rewards cyclists with numerous views of the lake and a chance to see a family of rare river otters, which were reintroduced to the area in 1994.
Getting There
- Newton Lake Conservation Area is located 10 miles south of the town of Newton on E. 500th Avenue, south of state Route 33. A sign marks the entrance to the park. The mountain bike trail begins at the day-use area in the Newton Lake State Fish and Wildlife Area's north access area, and you can spot the trailhead alongside the road between the park entrance and the parking area.
Keep in Mind
- The mountain bike trail is open year-round, along with all other trails in Newton Lake State Fish and Wildlife Sanctuary. Hunting is permitted in the area during Illinois hunting seasons, so be sure to wear blaze orange and avoid bringing pets into the park if you plan to visit in fall. The mountain bike trail is also open to hikers, but horses and all-terrain vehicles are not allowed. Bicycles are not permitted on the rest of the park's trails. Newton Lake is open until 10 p.m. every day except Christmas and New Year's Day.
Other Attractions
- The park's entire 22-mile trail system is open to hiking and cross-country skiing, and you can access a variety of trails from the north access area. Boating is permitted on the lake, and with a current Illinois fishing license you can fish for largemouth bass, bluegill and several other species. In addition to trail access, the north access area also has a picnic pavilion, available on a first-come, first served basis. The south access area, located on E. 300th Avenue, has parking, boat launch facilities, playground equipment and picnic tables and shelters.
