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Best lake hikes in Cook County
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Best lake hikes in Cook County

Want a hike where the views are as smooth as the water's surface? These lake-side paths will have you reflecting on nature's beauty.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Cook County.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Maple Lake, Bullfrog Lake and Tomahawk Slough Loop

Cook County, Illinois · star 4.5 (37) · 15.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 29 min

2

Easy

Yellow Loop Trail - Deer Grove Nature Preserve

Cook County, Illinois · star 4.6 (33) · 8.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 52 min

3

Easy

Tomahawk Slough and Bull Frog Lake Loop via Palos Orange Unpaved Trail

Cook County, Illinois · star 4.6 (36) · 14.5 km · Est. 3 hrs 12 min

4

Easy

Green Bay Trail

Cook County, Illinois · star 4.4 (51) · 28.6 km · Est. 5 hrs 46 min

5

Easy

Deer Grove Nature Preserve Loop

Cook County, Illinois · star 4.6 (45) · 11.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 28 min

6

Easy

Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary and Montrose Harbor Beacon Walk

Cook County, Illinois · star 4.5 (32) · 3.6 km · Est. 45 min

7

Easy

Montrose Harbor to Belmont Harbor

Cook County, Illinois · star 4.4 (27) · 5.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 1 min

8

Easy

Columbia Basin and Jackson Park Lagoon Loop

Cook County, Illinois · star 4.5 (40) · 2.9 km · Est. 35 min

9

Easy

Saganashkee Slough and Palos Orange Single Track Trail Loop

Cook County, Illinois · star 4.5 (52) · 11.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 28 min

10

Easy

Loop around Penny Road Pond - County Forest Preserve

Cook County, Illinois · star 4.5 (49) · 8.0 km · Est. 1 hrs 45 min

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Reviews for lake hikes in Cook County

Mason Bartoletti avatar

Maple Lake, Bullfrog Lake and Tomahawk Slough Loop

TrailAlpinist21 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Johnsie Hauck avatar

Yellow Loop Trail - Deer Grove Nature Preserve

PathfinderForestrunner15 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Msgr. Martin Hirthe avatar

Tomahawk Slough and Bull Frog Lake Loop via Palos Orange Unpaved Trail

PlateauCairntracker35 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Prince Rice avatar

Green Bay Trail

StreamSpruceseeker23 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Lester Halvorson avatar

Deer Grove Nature Preserve Loop

AshPinestracker40 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Cook County

What is the climate like for hiking in Illinois?

Illinois offers a four-season climate ideal for hiking. Spring and fall are most pleasant, with moderate temperatures and less rainfall. Summer hikes can be hot and humid, requiring hydration and sun protection. Winter hikes, while chilly, can offer pristine snowy landscapes. More info: www.enjoyillinois.com

Do I need a permit to hike in Illinois?

Hiking in Illinois usually doesn't require permits. For activities in state parks like camping or fishing, contact the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Always check regulations for specific trails or parks. More info: www2.illinois.gov/dnr

Is wild camping allowed in Illinois?

Wild camping in Illinois is generally restricted to designated campgrounds in state parks. Dispersed camping isn't typically allowed. For detailed rules and reservations, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website: www2.illinois.gov/dnr

Are there mountain rescue services in Illinois?

In case of emergencies while hiking in Illinois, dial 911 for immediate help. Specific mountain rescue services aren't prominent given Illinois' flat topography. Local law enforcement and park rangers handle such situations. Illinois Emergency Management Agency website can be checked for more information: www2.illinois.gov/iema

Are there dangerous plants in Illinois?

While hiking in Illinois, expect to encounter diverse flora such as hardwood trees in the North, cypress and tupelo in the floodplains, and tallgrass prairies in central parts. These add beauty and challenge, enhancing the hiking experience. For more details, check Illinois Department of Natural Resources: dnr.illinois.gov.

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Illinois?

In Illinois, hikers may encounter white-tailed deer, squirrels, and raccoons, among other wildlife. Be mindful of ticks and mosquitoes, especially in wooded areas. Always remember, it's best to observe wildlife from a distance. For further information, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources: dnr.illinois.gov.

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