Burnham Greenway Black Paved Trail

Starting near Cook County, Illinois, the Burnham Greenway Black Paved Trail stretches approximately 15 kilometers (around 9.3 miles) as an out-and-back route. With an elevation gain of zero meters, this trail is relatively flat, making it accessible for a wide range of hikers, though it is rated as medium difficulty due to its length.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can drive or use public transportation. If driving, you can park near the intersection of 130th Street and Avenue O in Chicago, which is close to the trail's starting point. For those using public transport, the nearest significant landmark is the Hegewisch Metra Station, which is about a 10-minute walk from the trailhead. From downtown Chicago, you can take the Metra Electric District line to Hegewisch.

Trail Navigation For navigation, it's recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. The trail is well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool can enhance your experience.

Trail Highlights The Burnham Greenway Black Paved Trail offers a mix of urban and natural landscapes. Starting from the northern end, you'll pass through several parks and green spaces, including the Eggers Grove Forest Preserve, which is about 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) from the trailhead. This area is rich in birdlife, so bring your binoculars if you're a bird-watching enthusiast.

Historical Significance The trail follows part of the historic Burnham Greenway, named after Daniel Burnham, a prominent urban planner known for his work on the 1909 Plan of Chicago. This plan aimed to beautify and modernize the city, and the greenway is a testament to his vision of integrating natural spaces within urban environments.

Nature and Wildlife As you continue south, you'll encounter the Wolf Lake area around the 7-kilometer (4.3-mile) mark. This lake straddles the Illinois-Indiana border and is a popular spot for fishing and picnicking. The surrounding wetlands are home to various species of waterfowl and amphibians, making it a great spot for nature lovers.

Facilities and Amenities There are several rest areas and benches along the trail, particularly near the parks and preserves. Public restrooms are available at Eggers Grove and Wolf Lake. Make sure to carry enough water and snacks, as there are limited facilities once you move away from these areas.

Safety and Precautions While the trail is paved and generally safe, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially when crossing roads. Some sections of the trail run parallel to busy streets, so exercise caution. The trail can get busy during weekends and holidays, so if you prefer a quieter hike, consider visiting during weekdays.

Final Stretch The southern end of the trail brings you close to the Indiana border, near the William W. Powers State Recreation Area. This area offers additional recreational opportunities, including boating and fishing. If you have the time, it's worth exploring before heading back.

By planning your hike with these details in mind, you'll be well-prepared to enjoy the diverse experiences the Burnham Greenway Black Paved Trail has to offer.