18 Great Places to Get Out Around McHenry County This Weekend

Many of us have been cooped up inside amid bitter cold temperatures, but "warmer" weather — we are talking mid-20s, here, for the weekend —are in store for McHenry County-area residents.

It may feel like a bit of a heat wave, considering how brutally low wind chill factors got in the past week. And for cooped up kids and families, it could be a great time to go explore the many outdoor winter activities the area has to offer.

Whether you’re bundled up with your kids or just want to get out on your own to stretch your legs, here are fun local spots and activities that make the cold weather worth it.

Hit the Ice: Local Outdoor Skating Rinks

You can dress in layers and bring a thermos of hot cocoa — even 20 minutes outside can warm your mood. Here is a look at a couple of our favorite outdoor ice rinks in the area:

• Snapper’s Field Ice Rink (Algonquin) – Bring your skates and enjoy open‑air skating when weather permits.
• Miller Point Park (McHenry) – Outdoor ice skating perfect for all ages.
• Crystal Lake Park District Rinks (Main Beach & West Beach)– Lighted skating in the evening, weather dependent.

Sledding Hills for the Whole Family

Bundle up and bring a sled to one of these local hills:

• Veteran Acres Park (Crystal Lake): Classic sledding fun that draws families on snowy days.
• Lions Park (Cary): Gentle slopes perfect for kids.
• Spella Park (Algonquin): A fun local choice for an afternoon downhill run.
• Picnic Grove Park (Fox River Grove): Steep hill with great views of the Fox River from the top.

Snowshoe, Ski-Skate, Cross-Country Ski

The Prairie Trail stretches across McHenry County and is perfect for a winter walk or, depending on conditions, snowshoeing. The scenery along the former rail line is especially peaceful under a blanket of snow.

If you do not have your own snowshoes, they are available to rent at the Lost Valley Visitor Center in Glacial Park. The cost is $10 for an all day rental and five inches of snow must be on the ground.

The Silver Creek Conservation Area, 1200 Block of Rawson Bridge Road in Cary, has a skate-ski trail, which differs from a traditional cross- country ski trail by being packed, but not tracked. The trail at Silver Creek is a 1 ½ mile, relatively flat, trail loop.

The McHenry County Conservation District has a great list of trails available for cross-country skiing, and also has a list of trails with solar lights, which allow for evening and night-time hikes in the winter.

Explore Forest Preserve Winter Trails in Lake County

Lake County Forest Preserves has plowed winter walking routes — ideal when snow blankets the ground but you still want outdoor movement:

• Independence Grove (Libertyville)
• Hastings Lake (Lake Villa)
• Old School & Lakewood Forest Preserves — with solar‑lit trails for early evenings after work or school.

These spots are perfect for brisk walks, birdwatching, or a peaceful winter hike.

Veteran Acres Nature Center

If you want a mix of indoor and outdoor, visit theNature Center at Veteran Acres for nature‑themed drop‑in crafts and a quick break from the cold before heading back outside.

Downtown – Walk & Warm Up

Not strictly “out in the cold,” but downtown Crystal Lake offers a great winter stroll. Window‑shop local boutiques, grab a warm drink, and admire seasonal window displays — a perfect post‑outdoor treat.

Other great downtowns to explores: Old Town Algonquin, McHenry and Woodstock Square.

Extra Tips for Winter Outdoor Fun

• Check conditions first: Rink and trail access often depends on weather.
• Warm layers & waterproof boots are your best friends on cold days.
• Plan beverage stops: warm drinks make short outdoor bursts feel cozy.

What is your favorite outdoor outing in the winter? Let us know in the comments.