Spring finds Trumpeter Swans in the marsh

There is a handicapped viewing platform on the Fox River Trail. As you get on the trail turn left and it is just ahead on the right. On the map it is called the Wetland Scenic View.

If instead you turn right you can go to the Black Tern Marsh Viewing Area.

McHenry Dam, nestled in the southwest corner of Moraine Hills State Park, is a large and peaceful destination in itself. With the quiet roar of the dam in the background and a stand of large, dense trees, the dam offers a lovely place to relax for fishermen and picnickers alike. Moraine Hills State Park’s system of hiking trails connects the dam to the rest of the park, but the dam has its own parking area and facilities as well.

To find the dam, set your GPS to 42°18’36.3″N 88°14’59.1″W, or look for the intersection of South River Road and McHenry Dam Road southeast of McHenry at the bottom of Moraine Hills State Park. Then just follow McHenry Dam Road until it ends in the parking lot.

Black Tern Marsh is surrounded by the Fox River Trail. AllTrails has details about the hike.