Hike Where Lincoln Walked

PETERSBURG - Those who like to walk in the woods are invited to walk where Lincoln walked during the Lincoln's Long-Gait hike scheduled for Memorial Day, Monday, May 26 at Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site.

The hiking event, being coordinated by the Menard County Trails and Greenways group, will offer hikes of one to five miles. All of the trails are loops which start and end at the restaurant parking lot, located directly east of the historic site entrance on Route 97. The shorter trails will be staffed by naturalists who will offer information pertaining to the area. Hikers may want to also allow time to stroll through the New Salem Historic Village after their hikes.

Pre-registration received by May 16 is $4 per hiker eight years and older. Registration at check in will be $6. The registration fee will pay for drinks, snacks and hot dogs for lunch. Check-in will take place from 8 to 11 a.m. at the restaurant parking lot, and hiking can begin any time after check in. Drinks, snacks and restrooms will be provided at the registration area. Event T-shirts are offered for $7 and orders should be received by May 16 to assure availability.

An optional donation of $10 to the Menard County Trails and Greenways group will provide a 2008 family membership to that organization. Organization goals include planning and construction of public trails in Menard County. Advance registrations should be mailed to: Lincoln's New Salem, HIKE, 15588 History Lane, Petersburg IL 62675. Checks should be made out to Menard County Trails and Greenways, or MCTG. For more information, call (217) 632-4000 or visit wgerch@aol.com.

Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site, administered by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency, is located two miles south of Petersburg, or 18 miles northwest of Springfield on State Route 97. It is open daily for free public tours.