Hike Past Seven Stunning Lagoons On The Skokie Lagoon Trail In Illinois
Hiking is always a good idea in the Prairie State, and hiking by water is an even better one. There are so many incredible state parks and wilderness areas to go hiking in the Prairie State, but not many trails lead past a lagoon. However, the Skokie Lagoon Trail in Cook County takes hikers on a scenic adventure past not just one, but a series of seven lagoons.
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.
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, through the Skokie River and spans an area of 242 acres.
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 in order to control flooding in the area.
From the main trail, you can veer off and take the 4.1-mile Skokie Lagoons Inner Trail which is unpaved and lightly trafficked. This moderate trail that will take you through forestland is your best bet for some solitude and incredible wildlife viewing along the water.
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.
The Skokie Lagoon Trail 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!
I'm an east coast girl living in a west coast world. I've worked in the entertainment industry for much of my adult life and I love photography, writing, and traveling around the U.S. as well as to far-flung locations around the world! Travel is my life and writing about it is a dream.
