What You Need to Know About the Horseshoe Mound in Galena, IL
The Horseshoe Mound in Galena, aka the Horseshoe Mound Preserve, is a gorgeous nature preserve nestled in the Illinois countryside. From breathtaking views to learning about the history of this natural attraction, this lesser-known spot is a lovely place to spend a few hours.
What to Do at the Horseshoe Mound in Galena, IL
Whether you’re visiting Galena for a day trip or you’re here for an extended stay, the Horseshoe Mound is a great place to visit! The Horseshoe Mound spans 40 acres of rolling greenery just a few minutes south of historic Galena. Placards at various spots throughout the site inform you of the history.
Go Hiking
The best way to explore the Horseshoe Mound is to stroll along the half-mile loop that threads through the grounds. Along the way, you’ll come across an observation area where you can admire the sweeping views and snap a few pictures. Council Ring greets you here, which is a stone seating area and collection of giant stones that even align with the summer and winter solstices.
Horseshoe Mound overlooks the Galena River Valley, and on a clear day, you can see three different states from its vantage point. If you’re looking for something romantic to do in Galena, a visit here during sunset is a wonderful idea!
Take a Walking Tour
Horseshoe Mound is managed by the Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation, and periodically, guided walking tours are available. Throughout the course of an hour, you’ll discover many different points of interest along the mound. It’s completely free to join!
Other Outdoor Activities in Galena
Once you’ve had a chance to take in the views, you might want to explore more. Luckily, there are plenty of other beautiful outdoor attractions in Galena, IL. Head over to Casper Bluff, Thunder Bay Falls, or the Galena River Trail to spend more time soaking in the great outdoors.
There are also tons of fun things to do in Galena once you work up an appetite or just want to relax for a while. Downtown Galena is home to several different shops and restaurants as well as charming historic buildings and more!
Stay Nearby
Whether you’re treating yourself to a staycation or are planning a full-blown vacation in Galena, Farmers Guest House is the perfect home base for your stay. Plush beds, spacious rooms, and historic charm await you in our iconic inn! Our lodgings offer features you will be hard-pressed to find elsewhere in Galena, like JACUZZI® tubs, an excellent location, and a mimosa bar in the morning.
One of our guests’ favorite parts of a stay here, though, is the complimentary gourmet breakfast in the morning. Wake up to scrumptious creations carefully envisioned by none other than Susan Steffan, the Breakfast Diva herself! Freshly baked seasonal treats and entrees will make sure that your day is off to the right start.
Be sure to take a look at all of our rooms and specials before you book your stay in Galena—you don’t want to miss out on a great deal!