The Lake County Forest Preserves and Tighthead Brewing Company have teamed up to release Trailhead IPA, a limited-edition beer inspired by outdoor adventure.

Brewed by Tighthead Brewing Company in Mundelein, the craft beer is a 6.2% ABV West Coast-style IPA with a light body and bright citrus and pine flavors.

The beer joins a wide variety of other Lake County craft beers at the Beer Garden at Independence Grove in Libertyville, showcasing the region's thriving craft brewing scene. It is available in cans and on draft at the Beer Garden and at Tighthead Brewing Company while supplies last. A portion of proceeds from every pint and four-pack sold supports the Preservation Foundation, the charitable partner of the Lake County Forest Preserves.

"I've been excited to see this project come together from the first conversation to the finished beer," said Billy Oaks, Brew Master at Tighthead Brewing Company. "Studying animal biology at the University of Illinois taught me to appreciate how small details can make a big difference, and I bring that same mindset to brewing. Craft beer blends science and creativity, and I'm really proud of how the beer and artwork turned out."

The new IPA is the latest collaboration between the Forest Preserves and a local craft brewery. Earlier this year, the Forest Preserves partnered with Harbor Brewing Company in Lake Villa to create 56 Quills: American Pils, as part of America’s 250th anniversary. The commemorative beer is named after the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence and the quill pens they used to declare a new nation in 1776.

"Trailhead IPA celebrates time spent outdoors while giving back to the places that make those adventures possible," said Director of Facilities Dan Stearns. "Whether you've just finished a walk, bike ride or paddle, it's as refreshing as a lakeside breeze."

Back