Wilmington, Illinois

Not the easiest to get in or out of the river at this location, but it works, at least for a kayak. Look out for people using the Centennial trail, and those fishing nearby. Be careful and if you are able, wear good shoes or sandals (not flip flops) with some tread as it can get muddy. Nearby thi...

The trails traverse a rolling glacial highland of oak woods and prairie. The hiking trails connect to miles of multi-use trails where you can hike, mountain bike, cross country ski and snowshoe. Lastly, there is an interpretive center with exhibits about local nature and history. The trailhead...

The Morton Arboretum is located off of Route 53 in Lisle, IL. The arboretum spans both the east and west sides of the road. Head to the east side of the park to access the Main Trail Loops. Visitors have to pay a small fee to enter the arboretum ($14 April through November, $9 December through Ma...

This is a six-mile loop along the banks of the Salt Creek in Oakbrook, IL. The flat trail features trees and wildflowers (great walk to do in autumn). Trail is also good for bike riders. There is a picnic area and the Graue Mill and Museum. Graue Mill is 150 years old and played a part in the Und...

This trail is almost 7 miles one-way (14 miles out-and-back) of paved path, makes for an ideal biking (especially those of us with road bikes), skating, and even running path. The trail runs out-and-back along the Salt Creek in Brookfield, IL. The trailhead is right near the Brookfield Zoo (for a...

This canyon is not as popular as some of the others in this park but it is my favorite by far. You can either make this a short hike from the Ottawa Canyon Trailhead on the east side of the park or hike the full 3.9 miles (one-way) from the visitor center. Either way you will not be disappointed...

This out-and-back trail is one of the parks longest trails. Starting from the visitors center it is 2.1 mile hike one way and 4.2 miles if you go out and back. The trail is very much worth the long trek. You enjoy the views and fresh air of the Illinois river. You will also walk past the Illinois...

If you happen to find yourself in the Chicagoland area be sure to check out the Wildcat Canyon hike at Starved Rock State Park. This is a 2 mile out and back hike from the visitor's center that leads to the largest waterfall in the park. There are two viewpoints from the top of the canyon or you ...

Starting from the visitors center or the parks restaurant, depending on where you parked. If you were forced to park by the restaurant because of a busy day, you will start the trail head with a map of the park. You will follow the tallest stairs of the park down to the visitors center where the ...

Starved Rock State Park is just outside of Oglesby, Illinois. The park features sandstone bluffs and the Illinois River runs through the park. Dogs are allowed on trail if kept on leash. The trail is open year-round for a variety of activities. The Lover's Leap Overlook Trail is rated as beginn...

The hike from the visitor center or lodge is 1.35 miles. For a shorter hike you can park just south of the park entrance on Route 178 and hike 10 minutes to the canyon and falls. Spring is the best time to see the waterfall and winter also provides a unique perspective once the waterfall freezes...

The Red River Loop in Matthiessen State Park River Area runs alongside the Vermillion River and is typically used by hikers, walkers, and those wishing to see unique birds. The Red River Trail is open for use year-round. The trail winds through beautiful canyons, streams, prairies, and forests in...

From the start of the parking lot you will cross a picnic area to your left where you can have a bite to eat before or after your hike. The trailhead starts off with a couple flights of stair leading you down to the bridge. After taking in the spectacular views at the top of the waterfall you wil...

Starting off right from the parking lot at Matthiessen State Park, follow the trail markers through the forest, across beautiful bridges, and find your way to one of the many stunning waterfalls. Depending on when you go, the water level will vary greatly. During the summer months the water level...

Visiting Chicago I was on a mission to find a great outdoors spot to be in. This definitely fulfilled my goal of finding a beautiful garden to hangout in! There are plenty of different paths and areas to explore just within the city! Location Located in Millennium Park it will be easy to find,...

North Avenue Beach, located in Chicago’s Lincoln Park, is one of the city’s most popular lakefront spots. Its iconic beach house, designed to resemble an ocean liner, offers 22,000 square feet of space, including upper decks and portholes for stunning views of Lake Michigan and the bustling lakef...