Best Hiking Trails Around the World in Chicago, Illinois, United States

All Topics about Chicago All Cities in United States

1. Palos Forest Preserve

A network of trails in the southwest suburbs offering diverse landscapes, from wetlands to prairies.

Diverse Terrain: Allows hikers to explore various ecosystems within one preserve
Accessibility: Easy access from Chicago with multiple trailheads throughout the preserve
Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities to see native Illinois wildlife such as deer, foxes, and an abundance of bird species.

An extensive system of trails offering urban wilderness just minutes from downtown Chicago.

Urban Wilderness: Experience nature within the city, providing a unique blend of urban and natural landscapes
Size: One of the largest forest preserve systems in the nation, offering numerous trail options
Conservation Efforts: Supports ongoing efforts to protect local habitats and wildlife populations.

A historic trail following the old canal route between Chicago and LaSalle-Peru, offering scenic views.

Historic Significance: Hike along a historically significant waterway that helped shape Illinois
Urban and Rural Scenes: Experience both urban and rural landscapes, passing through charming towns and natural areas.
Length: Stretches over 76 miles, providing a long trail for multi-day hikes or shorter day trips.

An island park located in downtown Chicago offering scenic lakefront views and unique urban landscapes.

Urban Hiking: Rare opportunity for hiking within a major city, surrounded by the Chicago skyline
Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to observe local and migratory birds, as well as other wildlife.
Recreational Activities: Includes amenities such as picnic areas, bike rentals, and a nature boardwalk.

A large forest preserve in the southwest suburbs with challenging hikes and unique geology.

Challenging Terrain: Provides more difficult hiking trails for experienced adventurers
Geological Interest: Features unique geological formations, including a large sandstone outcropping called the 'Boulder Pile'.
Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to see rare species such as the Kirtland's Warbler and the Indiana Bat.

A pedestrian-friendly riverfront trail with scenic views of Chicago's iconic architecture.

Iconic Views: Offers breathtaking views of Chicago's famous skyline
Cultural Experiences: Includes cafes, boat tours, and seasonal events along the riverwalk.
Accessibility: Easy access from downtown Chicago with multiple entry points along the river.

A former military base turned nature preserve offering hiking trails and historic sites.

Historic Significance: Explore the remnants of a former U.S. Army post, including historic buildings.
Varied Terrain: Offers both wooded and open prairie trails for diverse hiking experiences.
Nature Observation: Opportunities to observe local wildlife, including birds, deer, and butterflies.

A forest preserve in the north suburbs featuring varied landscapes and abundant wildlife.

Varied Landscapes: Includes woodlands, wetlands, prairies, and waterways for a diverse hiking experience.
Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species.
Urban and Rural Scenes: Experience both urban and rural landscapes, with views of the Chicago skyline in the distance.

A multi-use trail following the old North Shore Channel, connecting several suburbs.

Urban and Rural Scenes: Experience both urban and rural landscapes as the trail passes through various suburbs.
Length: Stretches over 39 miles, providing a long trail for multi-day hikes or shorter day trips.
Accessibility: Easy access from Chicago with multiple entry points along the trail.

A scenic trail in northwestern Lake County featuring wooded areas and lake views.

Scenic Views: Offers beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding woodlands.
Varied Terrain: Includes both easy and challenging sections, making it suitable for hikers of various skill levels.
Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe local wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species.

A network of trails in the Forest Preserves of Will County, offering diverse landscapes and educational opportunities.

Diverse Terrain: Features a variety of ecosystems, including woodlands, wetlands, and prairies.
Educational Opportunities: Includes educational programs and exhibits focused on local ecology and conservation efforts.
Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species.

A multi-use trail following the Des Plaines River from northwest suburbs to Joliet.

Length: Stretches over 51 miles, providing a long trail for multi-day hikes or shorter day trips.
Urban and Rural Scenes: Experience both urban and rural landscapes as the trail passes through various suburbs.
Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife, including waterfowl, deer, and numerous bird species.

A forest preserve in southwest suburban Cook County featuring multiple waterfalls.

Waterfalls: Uncommon feature in Illinois, with multiple waterfalls to explore.
Diverse Terrain: Includes wooded areas, prairies, and wetlands for a diverse hiking experience.
Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species.

A multi-use trail following the Kankakee River from south suburban Chicago to LaSalle.

Length: Stretches over 47 miles, providing a long trail for multi-day hikes or shorter day trips.
Urban and Rural Scenes: Experience both urban and rural landscapes as the trail passes through various towns and natural areas.
Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife, including waterfowl, deer, and numerous bird species.

A scenic trail following the Fox River in northwestern Illinois, offering opportunities for fishing and wildlife observation.

Scenic Views: Beautiful views of the Fox River and surrounding woodlands.
Fishing Opportunities: Allows for fishing along the river, making it a great destination for anglers.
Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species.