Hike Past Seven Stunning Lagoons On The Skokie Lagoon Trail In Illinois

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.

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.

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.

Part of the Skokie Lagoons Trail is heavily trafficked, especially with bikes, but there are some areas along the way that have fewer people.

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."

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 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!

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!