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The Harlem Township Bike Path lies not far from the Rock River in western Machesney Park in the Rockford metropolitan area. The trail consists of a lower (southwest) and an upper (northeast) loop in the community's Schoonmaker Park, as well as some connecting segments that provide access to neighborhood streets. The park offers a playground, basketball court, tennis courts, baseball diamonds, picnic tables and an off-leash dog park. Drinking water and a portable toilet are also available during the warmer months.
A parking lot is available in Schoonmaker Park, located on Ventura Boulevard north of Ralston Road.
I come to the Harlem Township Path almost everyday. I walk with my dog. Always very well maintained. The 1.6 miles is great and my son loves to run around the track as well. The playground and other sports options in the park are awesome as well! Wonderful park all around :)
GREAT PARK FOR THE FAMILY , KIDS CAN WALK OR RUN AHEAD OF YOU AND YOU CAN KEEP AN EYE ON THEM, PERFECT PLACE TO TEACH YOUR KIDS TO RIDE A BIKE, A FUN PLAYGROUND,VOLLEYBALL COURT, A DOG PARK"YEARLY FEE", A SHELTER WITH 5 BBQ GRILLS ,ALL IN A SAFE VERY QUITE ATMOSPHERE!!!!
A 1.6 mile bike path....seriously?
The path is well maintained. It is mostly two loops inside a park. It is a fairly typical park with the typical park amenities. Not much in the way of scenery. It does not actually go anywhere or connect to another trail. Much of it is tree lined, at least on one side of the path, so there would be some shade in the summer. Much of the path runs along the back yards of houses, so it is not real private.
Wilma and I walked it on New Years Eve. I posted some pictures on my blog at http://ilbob.blogspot.com/2011/12/schoonmaker-park-and-harlem-township.html.
If we lived in the area, we would probably walk it on a regular basis as it is nicer than walking a circuit on neighborhood streets and sidewalks as we do most mornings.
Wilma's dog park is located in the park here, so we have been to this park a number of times. The park gets a fair amount of use. I think there have been other people there every time we have gone there.
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