Hiking along the water is a great option when you’re in Illinois and wondering where to find the best walking trails “near me.” As I’m sure you know, there are many incredible state parks and wilderness areas with trails to explore in the Prairie State. However, there aren’t many that will take you along a lagoon. The Skokie Lagoon Trail in Cook County is an exception that takes hikers on a scenic adventure along a series of seven lagoons! Want to know more? Read on to learn about this memorable hike in Illinois.

Skokie Lagoon Trail is an 11.4-mile loop that is partially paved and good for both hiking and biking. It is a moderately difficult hike given the length and 127-foot elevation gain.
AllTrails
Skokie Lagoons is a nature preserve that is owned and managed by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County. It consists of seven interconnected lagoons, complete with channels and islands on the Skokie River, and spans an area of 242 acres.
John Cowan/AllTrails
Water flowing from the Chicago Botanic Garden comes through the lagoons to the Skokie River. In the 1930s, the lagoons were created by the Civilian Conservation Corps to control flooding in the area.
Joe Moennig/AllTrails

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Part of the Skokie Lagoons Trail is heavily trafficked, especially with bikes, but there are some areas along the way that have fewer people.
Shashank Singhai/AllTrails
From the main trail, you can veer off and take the 4.1-mile to Skokie Lagoons Inner Trail. Per AllTrails, this is unpaved and lightly trafficked. This moderate trail will lead you through forestland and is your best bet for some solitude and incredible wildlife viewing along the water. Hence, it's a great option when you're in Illinois and looking for the best walking trails "near me."
C Den/AllTrails
If you choose to spend some time on the water, you can rent or bring a kayak or canoe. This is another peaceful way to explore the vast lagoon waterway system.
Belle Tejeda/AllTrails
The Skokie Lagoon Trail also leads to the Chicago Botanic Garden, where you can begin or end your hike. Just set aside some time to enjoy the gardens along with the lagoons for a lovely day trip in the great outdoors!
Jose luis Jorquiera/AllTrails

 

To get started on planning your adventure, check out AllTrails to learn more about Skokie Lagoon Trail and Skokie Lagoons Inner Trail. If you’re an avid hiker and want to explore additional hikes in Illinois, I encourage you to also take advantage of AllTrail’s special sign-up offer.

Be sure to check out the Chicago Botanic Garden during your epic outing, too!

 

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Best Walking Trails Near Me

Marla S. | July 14, 2023

When I'm in Illinois, what are some of the best walking trails near me? 

Along with the Skokie Lagoon Trail and Skokie Lagoons Inner Trail, here are some of the best walking trails in Illinois:

  • Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby: You'll find numerous hikes and impressive lookouts when you hit the walking trails in this Illinois park.
  • Chicago Lakefront Trail in Chicago: This well-known path is a popular spot for dates, working out, and soaking in the Chicago skyline.
  • Hebron Trail in McHenry County: Stroll through meadows and pass by farmlands when you hit this 6.7-mile trail in Illinois.
  • The Constitution Trail in Bloomington: Although this trail spans 45 miles, there are many entry points along the route. Therefore, stroll as much or as little as you'd like!

 

To learn more about these and other hikes, visit AllTrails.

What are some popular waterfall hikes in Illinois? 

Here are some popular waterfall hikes in Illinois:

  • John N. Olin Nature Preserve in The Nature Institute: This stunning hike is just under 3 miles and leads to a breathtaking waterfall.
  • Lover's Leap Overlook Trail in Starved Rock: You'll pass the Illinois River as you hike this 1.7-mile waterfall hike.
  • Dells Canyon and Bluff Trail in Matthiessen State Park: As you walk along this looped trail, be prepared to be wowed by the stunning waterfall that drops along a cliff.
  • Red Cedar Trail in Giant City State Park: You'll trek along an 11-mile trail to reach this understated waterfall. However, you'll pass impressive rock formations along the way.

 

Check out AllTrails to learn more about these and other waterfall hikes in Illinois.

 

 

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Skokie Lagoons, Illinois, USA