When hiking near Chicago, it’s important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all spot. Some people prefer challenging hikes, while others opt for scenic waterfall trails, and some want a quick trip for birdwatching.
Every season presents new and different ways to experience nature. Regardless of the time of year, here are some of the best hiking trails near Chicago when you just need an escape from the craziness of life.
Our favorite hiking trails near Chicago
LaBagh Woods
LaBagh Woods is located at the southern end of the renowned North Branch Trail. The area is recognized for its diverse and thriving natural environments, including wooded landscapes, wetlands, savannas, and sedge meadows.
📍Location: Lincolnwood, Illinois
🚗 Distance from Chicago: 11 miles
🏕 Hike Distance: 5.7 miles
Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve
For those who love chasing beautiful waterfalls near Chicago, Waterfall Glen is the perfect destination to scout them. Hikers can take advantage of all the scenic limestone trails that stretch for nearly 11 miles.
📍Location: Daren, Illinois
🚗 Distance from Chicago: 23.3 miles
🏕 Hike Distance: 9.7 miles
Devil’s Lake State Park
Devil’s Lake State Park offers stunning views and the best hiking trails near Chicago, including 500-foot bluffs that overlook a 360-acre lake. Along the Ice Age Natural Scenic Trail, visitors can enjoy nearly 30 miles of hiking trails.
📍Location: Sauk County, Wisconsin
🚗 Distance from Chicago: 192 miles
🏕 Hike Distance: 29 miles
Indiana Dunes National Park
Indiana Dunes National Park offers a variety of trails, ranging from strenuous hikes to leisurely bike rides, all of which lead to the stunning beaches of Lake Michigan.
📍Location: Chesterton, Indiana
🚗 Distance from Chicago: 46 miles
🏕 Hike Distance: 3.4 miles
Fort Sheridan
Fort Sheridan features three primary paved trails: the Hutchinson Trail, Lake Overlook Trail, and Parade Grounds Trail.
Hutchinson Trail is a 1-mile path that runs from Sheridan Road along Hutchinson Ravine to Lake Michigan. The Lake Overlook Trail is a .2-mile route that starts at the Gilgare Lane parking lot along the top of the bluff to the pond and lake overlook. The Parade Grounds Trail stretches for 0.75 miles, connecting the Gilgare Lane parking lot to the Parade Grounds.
Additionally, there is a dedicated trail for birdwatching: the 1.7-mile Birding Trail Loop.
📍Location: Fort Sheridan, Illinois
🚗 Distance from Chicago: 25 miles
🏕 Hike Distance: 3.65 miles
Big Foot Beach State Park
Big Foot Beach State Park, located on the shores of Lake Geneva, offers a swimming beach and five miles of hiking trails near Chicago.
📍Location: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
🚗 Distance from Chicago: 83.7 miles
🏕 Hike Distance: 5 miles