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Best forest hikes in Illinois
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Best forest hikes in Illinois

Need a nature reset? These forest hikes will immerse you in a sea of greenery.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Illinois.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Waterfall Glen Main Trail Loop

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.6 (47) · 15.2 km · Est. 3 hrs 15 min

2

Easy

Waterfall Glen Main and Rocky Glen Loop Trail

DuPage County, Illinois · star 4.6 (44) · 2.0 km · Est. 27 min

3

Easy

Moose Island and Des Plaines River Loop

Will County, Illinois · star 4.8 (36) · 4.3 km · Est. 54 min

4

Easy

Des Plaines River Trail from Half Day Forest Preserve

Lake County, Illinois · star 4.5 (42) · 2.9 km · Est. 36 min

5

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

6

Easy

Dawson Lake Loop

McLean County, Illinois · star 4.5 (30) · 5.2 km · Est. 1 hrs 4 min

7

Easy

Sequoit Creek Loop

Lake County, Illinois · star 4.4 (39) · 4.5 km · Est. 56 min

8

Easy

Skokie Lagoons Loop

Cook County, Illinois · star 4.4 (36) · 19.0 km · Est. 3 hrs 53 min

9

Easy

Rock Island Trail

Peoria County, Illinois · star 4.4 (41) · 16.0 km · Est. 3 hrs 16 min

10

Easy

Guilford County Forest Preserve Loop

Winnebago County, Illinois · star 4.4 (32) · 2.3 km · Est. 29 min

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Reviews for forest hikes in Illinois

Jorge Rohan avatar

Waterfall Glen Main Trail Loop

BluffCairntracker95 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Abby Gresko avatar

Waterfall Glen Main and Rocky Glen Loop Trail

Abbygee · reviewed 12 months ago

star star star star star

Alton Kassulke avatar

Moose Island and Des Plaines River Loop

SummitviewChaser81 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

King Schimmel avatar

Des Plaines River Trail from Half Day Forest Preserve

TrailmateAdventureguide34 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Sen. Jeff Doyle avatar

Illinois Prairie Path Elgin Branch and Great Western Loop Trail

PathCaveexplorer90 · reviewed over 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Illinois

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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