Hiking is a great way to enjoy nature. With so many great options, finding the best hiking trails in Cook County can be daunting.

The tiresome everyday routine demands an excursion so we all can replenish our energies and rejuvenate ourselves for what comes next. As rightly said by W.H Davies, " what is this life full of care? There's no time to stand and stare." It cannot be easy to find the best hiking trail. There are many different trails to choose from, and it can be hard to know which one is right for you. It's crucial to find a trail according to your skill level.

The best hiking trails in Cook County are the North Branch Trail, Palos Trail System, Swallow Cliff Woods, Plum Creek Trail, and Busse Woods. All these trails offer breathtaking views of nature.

The entire process sounds relatively simple, but in reality, it is not. Things should be well researched before we go for them. Finding the best hiking trails is not restricted to simply going and beginning hiking after your friend told you about it. Every individual is unique and has a set of traits different from others.

As adventure lovers, we took it upon ourselves to research and explore the best hiking trails in Cook County, and we take confidence in providing you with the best information yet. Below you will find all the relevant things you need to know.

Location of Cook County

Cook County is located in the northeastern part of the U.S. state of Illinois. It is the most populous county in Illinois and contains the city of Chicago, the third-most populous city in the United States.

The country is famous for its best hiking trails which offer stunning views of nature and provide a great workout. Cook County offers a beautiful array of landscapes to its hikers. There's something for everyone in this county, from forests and nature, preserves to miles-long lakefronts. When planning your hike, please take into account the trail's difficulty, length, and scenery so you can find the perfect one for you.

Best Hiking Trails In Cook County

North Branch Trail System

The North Branch Trail is a great option for beginner hikers, as it's short and relatively easy. The trail is just over 30km long, and it's mostly flat. The surface is lined with asphalt, so you should not expect any surprising rocks on the way. Making it the right choice for hike lovers who want a leisurely hike. The trail crosses the North Branch of the Chicago River, making for a beautiful view.

The trail is rated 5/5 by the reviewers who had the hiking experience on this track.

The trail's north end provides a 4-mile loop around Skokie Lagoons and Erickson Woods, two Cook County Forest Preserves. The southern part of the trail winds through Chicago Botanic Garden and runs along the edge of Deer Grove Forest Preserve.

This loop around the Skokie Lagoons takes about one and a half hours to cover on average.

If you want to experience a more challenging hike, the North Branch Trail offers a variety of services and amenities to make your experience easier. There are several places to stop and rest along the trail, including picnic areas and restrooms. The trail is also accessible to those with disabilities, making it a great option.

Palos Trail System: Maple Lake Singletrack Loop

The Palos Trail System: Maple Lake Singletrack Loop is a 14.5km loop that offers hikers a challenging but rewarding experience. The trail is mostly made up of a single track, which means it's narrow and twisty, with obstacles like roots and rocks. This can make for a difficult hike, providing a more immersive experience. The track takes about three and a half hours to complete on average.

The Maple Lake Singletrack Loop is part of the larger Palos Trail System of Cook County. Several other loops in the system and connectors will take you to even more trails. So no matter what your skill level or hiking preferences are, there's sure to be a trail in the Palos Trail System that's perfect for you. It is rated 4.5/5 by over 390 people. You can read their view here.

If you're looking for a longer hike, the Palos Trail system also offers a variety of camping options. You can camp in designated areas within the forest Preserves or get a permit to camp overnight on certain trails. Camping is undoubtedly a great way to extend your hike and explore even more of what Cook County offers.

Swallow Cliff Woods

The Swallow Cliff Woods is a wonderful place to visit, especially when the leaves are changing color in the fall. The woods offer a variety of trails that are perfect for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. There's also a beautiful waterfall located in the woods that is well worth exploring. The Hike distance is over 8 miles. The track is full of gravel and stones, mostly unpaved. It is best for intermediate hikers.

The Swallow Cliff Woods is located in Cook County, Illinois, just outside Chicago. The woods are part of the Palos Forest Preserves and cover over 800 acres. There are various trails that wind through the woods, so you can choose whichever is best suited for your hiking or biking level. There are also horseback riding trails available. Sledding is one of its kind, and we assure you that when the snow falls, you will love the sledding experience in the swallow cliff woods.

The forest preserve is rated 4.5/5 on yelp. Just in case you are someone who wants to know it.

Plum Creek Trail

The Plum Creek Trail is a 1.8-mile-long paved trail that winds through the woods and meadows of the Plum Creek Valley. It takes about forty-five minutes to complete this trail. It's a great place for a peaceful walk or bike ride, and there are plenty of places to stop and enjoy the views. The trail is well-maintained and popular with locals, so it's a great place to get some fresh air and exercise.

The Plum Creek Trail is a beautiful, serene place perfect for a peaceful walk or bike ride. With stunning views of the Plum Creek Valley, it's easy to see why this trail is so popular with locals. There are two picnic groves available too. An indoor washroom facility is available, subject to weather conditions. The track stays open from sunrise to sunset.

We can fly our drones here, too, to capture the most mesmerizing view. Our dogs are welcomed here, too, but only if we keep them leashed.

Rated 4.5 / 5 by people who have had the experience, but speaking from our own experience, we will give it 4.7 out of 5.

Ned Brown Forest Preserve

The Ned Brown Forest Preserve, also known as Busse Woods, is a large forest preserve located in Elk Grove, Illinois. The preserve is named after Ned Brown, an early settler and landowner in the area. The forest preserve contains over 3500 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and prairies. It is home to various wildlife, such as deer, squirrels, rabbits, and birds. There are also several trails and picnic areas within the preserve. The most popular Busse Woods Trails is 12.9 miles in the distance and is paved. This takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes to complete.

We can access the trail from the following places: Busse Lake Boating Center, Busse Forest Elk Pasture, Ned Brown Meadow, and Busse Forest Main Dam.

The Ned Brown Forest Preserve is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and learn about nature. The preserve offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking. The preserve also hosts several educational programs and events throughout the year. We are sure you will enjoy the outdoors and learn about nature.

There are a lot of other options available, too; Cook County is well known for its hiking experience and forest preserves. We only enlisted some of our favorite trails.

Things To Carry When Hiking the Cook County Trails

When hiking in Cook County, you must remember to bring the right supplies. Here are some of the most important things to bring with you:

Water: It is crucial to stay hydrated while hiking, bringing plenty of water.

Sunblock: The sun can be very strong in Illinois, so sunscreen is necessary.

Insect Repellent: Bugs can be a nuisance while hiking, so make sure to bring insect repellent.

Hats and Sunglasses: To save yourself from the scorching sun, wear hats and sunglasses.

First Aid Kit: In case of an accident, it is always best to be prepared with a first aid kit.

Snacks and lunch: Bring along some snacks and a packed lunch to keep your energy up.

Tips for New Hikers Going to Cook County

If you're new to hiking, here are a few tips to help you get started:

Start small. If you're not used to exercising, start by hiking shorter distances and gradually work your way up.

Choose a trail that's appropriate for your skill level. There are hiking trails for all levels of hikers, from beginners to experienced hikers.

Check the weather conditions before you head out. Hiking in bad weather can be dangerous and unpleasant.

Carry appropriate supplies. Make sure you bring plenty of water and snacks and dress appropriately for the weather.

Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to return. If something happens and you're unable to return when you planned, they'll know where to start looking for you.

Preparing For A Longer Trail

Make sure you are physically fit and have the endurance for a long hike. Start by conditioning your body with walks or runs in the weeks leading up to your hike.

Make sure you have the required gear. Check the weather conditions and pack appropriately. Depending on your destination, you'll need sturdy shoes, water, food, a first-aid kit, and other essentials.

Know your route. Plan out where you're going, and make sure to research the terrain so you know what to expect.

Pack light. Trying to carry too much can be cumbersome and slow you down. Only bring the essentials, and leave the rest at home or in your vehicle.

Take breaks often. Hiking can be taxing on your body, so take breaks often to rest and recharge.

If you are hiking in hot weather, please rest in between. Find a shady spot and take a break in the shade to avoid overheating.

Learn the safety precautions. Before you go on a hike, you must learn about the safety precautions because we want you to stay safe.

Safety Precautions While Hiking in Cook County

When hiking, always be mindful of your surroundings and be prepared for the unexpected. Bring plenty of water and snacks, and dress appropriately for the weather. If you're an adventure lover and going hiking in a remote area, be sure to let someone know where you're going, we encourage you to take your cell phone with you. Finally, always use caution when crossing streams or climbing hills; take your time and be careful not to slip.

Things To Remember Post Hiking

When you finish a hike, the best thing to do is relax and enjoy the views. You can rest your back and take in the fresh air, or maybe take a dip in the nearest body of water. If you brought food with you, now is the time to eat it. Enjoy your accomplishments and reflect on what you enjoyed about the hike.