Walking Tour of Heritage Quarries and I&M Canal
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The first tour begins at the gazebo on the canal, near the end of the new Heritage Quarries parking lot. Your group and guide will walk along the Illinois & Michigan Canal on the way to view three quarries. On the tour you will learn about the construction and use of the I&M Canal and see the ruins of a brick kiln. The history of Lemont limestone, the quarry industry and its workers will be covered as you view three beautiful spring-fed quarries. You may even see small mammals and waterfowl along the route. Historical photos of canal boats, quarry equipment and workers, will be shown to give you a sense of the hustle and bustle of the canal and quarries in their heyday.
Tour Length: Approximately 1 hour ~ Approximately 3/4 mile Tour Difficulty: Moderate. A crushed gravel trail runs along the canal and quarries with some inclines. Pictures are courtesy of Richard Lee |