The Under-The-Radar Destination In Illinois With The Most Beautiful Fall Foliage In The State

Fall is here in the Prairie State, which means it's time to soak up the blazing foliage as much as possible before winter sets in. While Illinois is full of incredible fall foliage viewing opportunities from its many forest preserves and state parks — not to mention its many small towns and cities — it's sometimes the lesser-known destinations that offer something special. And for those seeking the best fall foliage in Illinois, this stunning forest preserve links up to a scenic cemetery, a glistening lake, and miles of connected hiking trails.

Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve is a 105-acre forest preserve in suburban Willow Springs just outside Chicago. The woods are part of the larger Palos Trail System, which encompasses a number of lakes, parks, and miles of trails in the area.

Paw Paw Woods is one of the state's best and oldest forest preserves and is rated as one of the highest-quality natural environments by the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission. In the fall, it comes alive with blazing reds, coppers, and golds.

The 1.4-mile Purple Single Track Loop trail takes you all through the enchanting wooded area before linking back up with the Yellow Single Track (South) trail. Note that while the park is great for walking, running, or cycling, there isn't a parking lot.

Still, the picturesque setting is compelling enough to find a workaround. The hiker-friendly location also means plenty of chances for solitude to truly take in the scene.

In fact, the area is so gorgeous, it was the setting for the 2006 movie "The Lakehouse," which featured the breathtaking Maple Lake. With 8,000 feet of shoreline, the lake hugs the south side of the forest preserve.

Once you've made your way through Paw Paw Woods, you can choose to explore further along the Palos Trail System — though I recommend a loop through the adjacent Fairmount Willow Hills Memorial Cemetery.

With a giant stone clock tower and magnificent trees, the cemetery is a great way to wind down your adventure with peace, tranquility, and reflection.

So, would you peruse some of the best fall foliage in Illinois at this top-rated forest preserve? Where's your favorite place in the state for autumnal landscapes? Tell us in the comments! Start planning your visit by checking out the Forest Preserves of Cook County websites for Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve, the Palos Trail System, and Maple Lake. And while you're in the area, why not make it a day trip? Willow Springs is also home to one of the most haunted restaurants in Illinois and the site of the first nuclear reactor. And make sure to check our ultimate hiking packing list with all the outdoor essentials before you hit the trails.