Kishwaukee River Forest Preserve, Rock River Valley Travel Guide

Getting There

• Car

  From anywhere in Rock River Valley, get on I-90 E from your location. Depending on where you start, you may need to navigate local roads to reach I-90. Continue on I-90 E for approximately 20 minutes. Take exit 63A for I-39 N toward Rockford. Merge onto I-39 N and continue for about 15 minutes. Take exit 4B for IL-251 N toward Rockford. Keep left at the fork to continue on IL-251 N, following signs for Blackhawk Rd. Merge onto Blackhawk Rd. The Kishwaukee River Forest Preserve will be on your left at 5757 Blackhawk Rd, Rockford, IL 61109.

• Public Transportation

  If you are using public transportation, first locate the nearest bus stop that services the Rockford area. You can use the Rockford Mass Transit District (RMTD) buses. Take a bus that heads towards downtown Rockford. From downtown, transfer to Route 9, which heads towards the area near Kishwaukee River Forest Preserve. Get off at the closest stop to Blackhawk Rd. You will then need to walk approximately 1 mile west on Blackhawk Rd to reach the preserve. Be sure to check the RMTD schedule in advance for exact times as service may vary.

• Bicycle

  For those who prefer cycling, you can bike from downtown Rockford. Start on the bike-friendly routes leading to Blackhawk Rd. Follow the bike paths that guide you toward the Kishwaukee River Forest Preserve. You will need to navigate through local streets, so having a map or GPS application is recommended. The distance is approximately 5 miles, and it should take about 30-40 minutes to reach the preserve depending on your cycling speed.