9. North Branch Trail
This 16-mile paved trail travels north from Chicago into the suburbs, weaving through forest preserves and quiet neighborhoods. It’s ideal for long-distance walks and offers plenty of shaded stretches during warmer months.
Because it’s paved and mostly flat, it’s beginner-friendly and easy to navigate.
- Drive time: 20 minutes
- Entry: Free
10. Morton Arboretum
More than just a forest preserve, Morton Arboretum is a living museum of trees. With over 4,000 species catalogued, it offers a globally diverse landscape within suburban Lisle.
Visitors can explore 16 miles of paved and natural-surface trails, seasonal art exhibits and educational programs. It’s especially beautiful in autumn.
- Drive time: 45 minutes
- Entry: $16 adults
11. Joliet Iron Works Historic Site
History meets hiking at this unique destination. Once one of the largest steel mills in the country, Joliet Iron Works is now an open-air industrial ruin surrounded by nature.
Interpretive signs along the 1.5-mile trail explain the site’s history, making it a fascinating stop for those interested in Chicago’s industrial past.
- Drive time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Entry: Free
12. LaBagh Woods
Located within the city, LaBagh Woods feels surprisingly secluded. The 5.7-mile loop passes through wetlands, savannas and wooded areas rich in wildlife.
It’s particularly popular with birdwatchers and those seeking a peaceful, uncrowded escape.
- Drive time: 20 minutes
- Entry: Free
13. Kettle Moraine State Forest South
Located in southeastern Wisconsin, the Southern Unit of Kettle Moraine State Forest showcases landscapes shaped during the last Ice Age. Rolling hills, pine forests and open prairies create diverse terrain that feels dramatically different from Chicago’s flat skyline.
The forest connects to the famous Ice Age National Scenic Trail, offering everything from short 1.25-mile walks to challenging 30-mile stretches for experienced hikers. Fall brings brilliant foliage, while spring offers peaceful wildflower blooms.
- Drive time: 2 hours
- Entry: $13 in-state / $16 out-of-state
14. Glacial Park Conservation Area
Glacial Park is named for the ancient glaciers that shaped its unique topography. The park features two prominent hills known as kames, which hikers can climb for panoramic views of the surrounding prairie.
The five-mile trail system also winds through oak savannas, wetlands and bogs, offering a variety of ecosystems in one compact area. It’s a peaceful, less crowded alternative to larger state parks.
- Drive time: 80 minutes
- Entry: Free
15. Richard Bong State Recreation Area
Straddling the Wisconsin border between Kenosha and Lake Geneva, this wide-open recreation area was originally planned as a jet fighter base. Today, it’s a haven for outdoor lovers.
Hikers can explore 16 miles of trails that pass through prairie landscapes, wetlands and gently rolling hills. The park also features campsites and small lakes, making it ideal for a weekend hiking-and-camping combo.
- Drive time: 90 minutes
- Entry: $13 in-state / $16 out-of-state
16. Lakewood Forest Preserve
Spanning more than 2,000 acres, Lakewood Forest Preserve offers marshes, woodlands and peaceful lakeside scenery. It connects to the 28-mile Millennium Trail, giving hikers access to longer routes across Lake County.
The preserve is also known for its bat population, which naturally controls mosquitoes during summer months. Quiet and expansive, it’s a great place to escape crowds.
- Drive time: 90 minutes
- Entry: Free
17. Des Plaines River Trail
This 31.5-mile dirt and gravel trail runs north to south along the Des Plaines River, cutting through multiple forest preserves in Lake County. The northern section offers especially scenic woodland views.
Because you can access the trail at various entry points, it’s easy to customize your hike length. It’s also popular with trail runners and cyclists.
- Drive time: 30 minutes
- Entry: Free
18. Castle Rock State Park
Named for its prominent sandstone butte overlooking the Rock River, Castle Rock State Park offers dramatic elevation changes rarely found in northern Illinois.
Six miles of interconnected loop trails lead to scenic overlooks and shaded forest paths. It’s a refreshing change of terrain for hikers used to flat trails.
- Drive time: 2 hours
- Entry: Free
