Timeline
17:25
Pick up a bottle of wine or spirits from Hinsdale Wine and Spirits. With the sun setting at 18:10, you will have time to settle in before heading out. The shop is open until 19:00 on Sundays and until 20:00 on weekdays, so you can grab your supplies without rushing.
17:40
Hinsdale Flats WMA Parking at Bullard's Crossing Rd
Park at the southern lot on Bullard's Crossing Rd. This is the most reliable access point for the flats and puts you close to the viewing areas. It is an 18-minute walk from the parking area, giving you a short, easy stroll as the light begins to fade.
18:10
Hinsdale Flats Wildlife Management Area
Stand at the viewing spot in Hinsdale Flats Wildlife Management Area. The sun sets toward the WSW at this time of year. The golden light starts around 17:32, so you will have about 38 minutes of warm, low-angle light before the sun disappears. This is the perfect moment to watch the wildlife and the changing colors of the sky.
18:55
End your evening back at Hinsdale Wine and Spirits. After the cool air of the flats, it is a comfortable place to stay for a while. Enjoy your drink and reflect on the view. Remember to check the route if you need to return to your car or head home, as the area is large and parking can be scattered.
Local tip
The southern parking area on Bullard's Crossing Rd is generally more reliable than the northern lots, which may be closed during certain seasons. Bring a flashlight for the walk back after dark.
Check before you go
- Hinsdale Wine and Spirits is open Mo-Fr 06:00-20:00, Sa 08:00-20:00, and Su 09:00-19:00.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Hinsdale (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).