Chicago-hiking-areas

Discover the Best Hiking Areas in Chicago

While Chicago is known for its vibrant city life, it’s also a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The city and its surrounding areas offer numerous hiking trails that cater to different skill levels and preferences. Here are some of the best hiking areas in and around Chicago:

1. Palos Forest Preserve

  • Location: Palos Park, IL (20 miles southwest of Chicago)
  • Trail Length: Over 25 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

This forest preserve boasts scenic trails, wooded bluffs, and rolling hills. Hike through oak forests, prairies, and along the banks of Salt Creek.

2. Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

  • Location: Darien, IL (30 miles southwest of Chicago)
  • Trail Length: Over 10 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Features a stunning 25-foot waterfall, scenic overlooks, and diverse wildlife. Hike through woodlands, prairies, and along the banks of the Des Plaines River.

3. Starved Rock State Park

  • Location: Utica, IL (80 miles southwest of Chicago)
  • Trail Length: Over 13 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Explore sandstone canyons, bluffs, and forests along the Illinois River. Hike to the top of Eagle’s Nest for breathtaking views.

4. Maggie Daley Park

  • Location: Downtown Chicago
  • Trail Length: 1.5 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy

This urban park features a unique landscape with rolling hills, gardens, and public art installations. Enjoy scenic city views while hiking through the heart of Chicago.

5. Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens

  • Location: Palos Heights, IL (20 miles southwest of Chicago)
  • Trail Length: Over 4 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy

Hike through woodlands, prairies, and gardens surrounding Lake Katherine. Spot local wildlife, including birds, turtles, and fish.

6. The 606

  • Location: West Side of Chicago
  • Trail Length: 2.7 miles
  • Difficulty: Easy

This elevated trail follows the path of a former rail line, offering stunning city views and access to several parks and gardens.

7. Busse Woods Forest Preserve

  • Location: Elk Grove Village, IL (25 miles northwest of Chicago)
  • Trail Length: Over 12 miles
  • Difficulty: Moderate

Features scenic trails through oak forests, woodlands, and along the banks of Busse Lake. Spot local wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and hawks.

Get ready to lace up your hiking boots and explore the best hiking areas in and around Chicago!