This Off-The-Beaten-Path Nature Preserve In Illinois Is The Perfect Place To Escape

Chicago is known for its skyscrapers and brutalist downtown architecture, but it's also known as a "city in a garden." For every brick-and-mortar detail, there is a flower, a tree, or a waterway that leads to something natural. Of course, Illinois is full of amazing outdoor landscapes, but this hidden nature preserve in Chicago has been one of my favorite places to visit since it opened.

West Ridge Nature Preserve, 5801 N. Western Ave., is located in the West Ridge neighborhood on the Far North Side of Chicago. Surrounded by busy streets on two sides, the 21-acre park is a nearly completely hidden natural oasis off the beaten path.

From the street, you would never know that this gorgeous natural landscape was thriving in the midst of an urban environment. It makes for an idyllic place for city dwellers and visitors alike to spend some time outdoors.

And you never know what other visitors you may encounter here — deer, birds, waterfowl, foxes, and other small critters are often seen enjoying the park, too!

However, your pooch should not be among the wildlife here — dogs aren't permitted at the park.

A main feature of the preserve is its 4.5-acre pond, which is great for fishing, reflection, or scouting out the local fauna.

The pond is surrounded by a boardwalk, an elevated overlook, walking trails, educational signage, a play space for kids, and more.

When I lived in this neighborhood, I loved taking a seat near the pond to take in a moment of tranquility.

Lush trails filled with a valley of trees, grasses, shrubs, and flowers take you throughout the park, which is on the former grounds of the historic Rosehill Cemetery. The space was an undeveloped debris dumping ground before being transformed into a park and officially opening to the public in 2015.

Today, it's a serene, hidden nature preserve in Chicago that offers something unique and special. With over 500 species of native trees, shrubs, and flowers, West Ridge Nature Preserve is a one-of-a-kind natural escape.

So, would you spend some time at this hidden nature preserve in Chicago? What's your favorite little-known outdoor spot in Illinois? Start planning your visit by checking out the Chicago Park District website. And while you're in the neighborhood, consider checking out another amazing park — this historic park feels like it's straight out of a fairytale!