5 Best Hiking Trails Near Chicago

Chicago is home to many interesting hiking trails which make up for an exciting and daring adventure point. There are some gems a little away from city that  are well known to visitors while others are comparatively forgotten, yet each one of them embodies a charm that is worth exploring.
If you want to go hiking near Chicago, I have a list of top trails near the city that offers happening hiking options for adventurers. Check out the list here:-

1. Glacial Park Trail

The trail is located in the Glacial Park which is a part of Hackmatack National Wildlife Refuge. This hiking trail near Chicago is around 2 miles long that passes through surrounding wildlife and plants, providing an up and close look at nature. The trail is good for activities like hiking, biking, canoeing and fishing in the Nippersink Creek.


Distance from Chicago: 62.2 miles; 1.5 hours driving
Hike distance: 2.1 miles
Difficulty Level: Moderate

2. Castle Rock State Park, Illinois

Nestled in the Rock River Hills region in Illinois, Castle Rock State Park is a paradise for nature lovers. It is a trendy place for hikers and joggers marked with 6 miles long trail that leads to some most breathtaking vistas in the region. Apart from hiking, other things like Kayaking along the river or click some pictures relishing the sights of the place.


Distance from Chicago: 108 miles; 2 hours driving
Hike distance: 5.49 miles
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Also read: 11 Most Popular Hikes in Yosemite

3. Deer Grove

This hiking spot near Chicago is potentially one of the best for the city, attracting visitors from all across USA. It has a range of varied trails that are suitable for all kind of activities, be it hiking, jogging, horseback riding or even bird watching.


Distance from Chicago: 147 miles; 2.5 hours driving
Hike distance: 3.9 miles
Difficulty Level: Moderate

4. Des Plaines River Trail
The trail is a unique recreational route that lies along the Des Plaines River. Used for multiple purposes, you can do everything here, from biking, hiking, jogging to even skiing and snowmobiling in winters.


Distance from Chicago: 52.8 miles (to north end of trail); 1-hour driving
Hike distance: 31.4 miles
Difficulty Level: Easy to Tough

5. Matthiessen State Park

What makes this place an ultimate hiking destination? 
The wealth of natural beauty with intriguing rock formations, canyons, streams and long stretches of flora & fauna makes Matthiessen a great choice for recreational outings.


Distance from Chicago: 102 miles; 1 hour 55 minutes driving
Hike distance: 5 miles
Difficulty Level: Moderate to hard​

Hiking is a great experience in itself but you have to be aware of the hikes that suits you the best. Hope the list helped you.

Read more related blogs:-
12 Best Hiking Trails in Washington State

Best Waterfall Hikes In USA

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