HARRISBURG, Ill. (WJPF) — Mountain bikes are now allowed on a stretch of a hiking trail in the Shawnee National Forest.

Nineteen miles between Dixon Springs State Park and the Lake Glendale Recreation area now designated for dual use.

The trail system consists of sixteen miles in the Shawnee National Forest and three miles in the Dixon Springs State Park. The system includes the popular Lake Trail around Lake Glendale. Currently, mountain bikers can access the trail system in the Lake Glendale Recreation Area at Cardinal Bay Boat Launch and Pine Point Picnic Area and at trailheads in Dixon Spring State Park.

Forest officials say plans are being made for improving trail access points and directional signage.