Visitors to the I&M Canal Access enjoy easy access to the more than 60-mile I&M Canal State Trail. A short 500-foot path leads to the state trail covered with crushed limestone. After hiking or biking the trail, visitors can relax at the wildlife observation deck that offers a scenic view of a pond and Rock Run Creek. Green herons, ducks, and beaver are among the wildlife that can be seen.

A picnic shelter is also available for relaxation after a trail ride, or for reservation for larger groups.

The preserve also provides access to the 9-mile Rock Run Trail. This trail follows Houbolt Road to the Joliet Junior College Campus where it skirts around the college and continues northward to the District's Hammel Woods, Black Road Access, and Paul V. Nichols Access. The trail then continues northeast to Theodore Marsh before linking to the Joliet Junction Trail, a 4.4-mile spur that links back to the I&M Canal State Trail. The entire loop is approximately 16 miles and is perfect for hiking, biking, in-line skating, or cross-country skiing.

Photograph Courtesy of Glenn P. Knoblock