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Best wildlife hikes in DuPage County
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Best wildlife hikes in DuPage County

Calling all nature lovers! These wildlife-rich hikes give you the chance to spot some of the forest's cutest inhabitants.

Here are some great hikes to explore in DuPage County.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

McKee Marsh, Mount Hoy - West Branch DuPage River Trail

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.4 (39) · 12.8 km · Est. 2 hrs 36 min

2

Easy

Illinois Prairie Path Elgin Branch and Great Western Loop Trail

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.5 (41) · 8.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 43 min

3

Easy

DuPage River and River Loop Trail - Knock Knolls Park

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.6 (42) · 4.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 0 min

4

Easy

Herrick Lake, Meadowlark, Green Heron Loop Trail

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.6 (40) · 13.3 km · Est. 2 hrs 45 min

5

Easy

Henslow's Trail and Sunflower Loop Trail

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.5 (46) · 4.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 2 min

6

Easy

Salt Creek Greenway Trail and Eldridge Park Loop

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.5 (28) · 5.3 km · Est. 1 hrs 6 min

7

Easy

Lacey Creek and Lyman Woods Forest Preserve Loop

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.4 (29) · 2.7 km · Est. 34 min

8

Easy

Heritage Trail and Main Trail Loop - 1 from Meadow Lake

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.5 (46) · 10.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 13 min

9

Easy

York Woods Forest Preserve Loop

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.6 (40) · 1.9 km · Est. 23 min

10

Easy

Lambert Lake Nature Preserve Loop

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.7 (26) · 1.6 km · Est. 21 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for wildlife hikes in DuPage County

Clyde Schinner PhD avatar

McKee Marsh, Mount Hoy - West Branch DuPage River Trail

RavineSnowwalker20 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Sen. Jeff Doyle avatar

Illinois Prairie Path Elgin Branch and Great Western Loop Trail

PathCaveexplorer90 路 reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Fr. Galen Donnelly avatar

DuPage River and River Loop Trail - Knock Knolls Park

SpruceDreamer78 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Fausto Stoltenberg avatar

Herrick Lake, Meadowlark, Green Heron Loop Trail

CliffPinestracker92 路 reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Rep. Jesse Konopelski avatar

Henslow's Trail and Sunflower Loop Trail

ClimberTrailstalker37 路 reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in DuPage 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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