Fall is a beautiful time to explore Lake County Forest Preserves
Every Fall, the Lake County Forest Preserves sponsors a walking program that features different trails at some of the most colorful places in the area. There are even upcoming guided hikes.
Keep a log of your adventures and if you visit seven of the featured trails, you can submit your log online and receive a hiking shield or zipper pull/dog tag to show off your hard work. The deadline for completing is November 30, 2023.
Visit the Hike Lake County website for details and maps.
- Fort Sheridan, Lake Forest
- Grant Woods, Lake Villa
- Grassy Lake, Lake Barrington
- Greenbelt, North Chicago
- Independence Grove, Libertyville
- Marl Flat, Round Lake
- McDonald Woods, Lindenhurst
- Nippersink, Round Lake
- Pine Dunes, Antioch
- Ryerson Conservation Area, Riverwoods
- Singing Hills, Round Lake
- Van Patten Woods, Wadsworth
- Wild Card - Pick any Forest Preserve Trail
Van Patten Woods - Wadsworth
No surprise Van Patten Woods in Wadsworth is one of my favorite places in Lake County. With five miles of trails that are open for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing you just can’t go wrong.
If you have an AMA license, you can even access the model aircraft field.
Find maps and information at: Van Patten Woods
My runner up is Pine Dunes in Antioch. It’s a hidden gem, perfect for a walk with family or friends. Plus, it’s a terrific place to see native plants from Spring through Fall.
