Hey there fellow adventurers! If you’re looking for a little escape from the city and a chance to stretch those legs, look no further than these 10 incredible hikes and trails near Chicago, Illinois. From rolling hills to pristine lakes, there is no shortage of natural beauty to discover just a short drive away. Strap on your hiking boots, grab your water bottle, and let’s hit the trails!
-
Starved Rock State Park
A true Illinois gem, Starved Rock State Park offers over 13 miles of trails through stunning canyons and past cascading waterfalls. A great day trip for hikers of all levels!
-
Moraine Hills State Park
Located just 60 miles outside of Chicago, Moraine Hills State Park offers over 10 miles of trails with picturesque views of the Fox River.
-
Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve
Known for its stunning waterfall and challenging hilly terrain, Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is a popular spot for runners and hikers alike.
-
Indiana Dunes National Park
Just an hour outside of Chicago, Indiana Dunes National Park offers over 15 miles of stunning shoreline and hiking trails through rolling sand dunes.
-
Des Plaines River Trail
Stretching over 56 miles through Cook, Lake, and McHenry counties, the Des Plaines River Trail offers a scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
-
Illinois Prairie Path
As the first rail-to-trail conversion in the United States, the Illinois Prairie Path offers over 60 miles of flat, scenic trails through suburban Chicago.
-
Chain O’Lakes State Park
With over 6,000 acres of rolling hills, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests, Chain O’Lakes State Park offers a wide variety of hiking trails for all skill levels.
-
The Chicago Lakefront Trail
One of the most popular bike and pedestrian paths in the city, the Chicago Lakefront Trail offers over 18 miles of stunning shoreline and skyline views.
-
Kankakee River State Park
Boasting over 4,000 acres of varied terrain and over 11 miles of hiking trails, Kankakee River State Park is a nature lover’s paradise.
-
Palos Trail System
With over 50 miles of mountain biking trails and plenty of hiking trails as well, the Palos Trail System is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Get ready to be wowed by the natural beauty and unique geology of Starved Rock State Park!
Take in the scenic views and tranquil atmosphere at Moraine Hills State Park – perfect for a weekend escape!
Get your heart pumping and your legs moving on the trails at Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve!
Experience the beauty of the Great Lakes at Indiana Dunes National Park – a must-visit for all outdoor enthusiasts!
Experience the changing landscape of the Des Plaines River Valley on this picturesque trail through northern Illinois.
Take a leisurely stroll through the peaceful prairies of suburban Chicago on the Illinois Prairie Path.
Explore the great outdoors and enjoy all that Chain O’Lakes State Park has to offer – from hiking to fishing to boating!
Take a stroll or a bike ride along the shores of Lake Michigan on the iconic Chicago Lakefront Trail.
Discover the natural beauty of rural Illinois at Kankakee River State Park – a hidden gem just a short drive from the city!
Get your adrenaline pumping on the challenging mountain biking trails of the Palos Trail System – the perfect escape from urban life!