Horseshoe Mound

1679 N Blackjack Rd, Galena, IL. Due to Jo Daviess County zoning regulations, Horseshoe Mound cannot be used as a wedding location. The preserve will be closed the weekends of Oct 12-14, Oct 19-20, and Oct 25-27 to fulfill hunting lease obligations.  It will also be closed Nov 22-25 and Dec 5-8 during firearms hunting seasons.

Located at the eastern gateway to the historic city of Galena, the nearly 200 acre Horseshoe Mound offers the public opportunities to enjoy one of the most scenic properties in all of northern Illinois.

Horseshoe Mound Preserve features a central gathering area, viewing scopes, and scenic outlooks with views across three states. Hiking trails extend throughout the property and offer panoramic views of the city of Galena, distant views of Bellevue and Dubuque in Iowa, the Mississippi River, and several other geological mounds in Iowa and Wisconsin.

In 2021, the new Spiroff Overlook was opened at the north end of the preserve. A trail now winds through a restored oak savanna and unique rock outcroppings to stunning views of the surrounding countryside, downtown Galena, and beyond into Iowa and Wisconsin. To reach the Spiroff Overlook, head north on the trail from the main gathering circle.