The best walks and hikes around Long Grove
4.6
(41)
495
hikers
69
hikes
Hiking trails around Long Grove, Illinois, are primarily found within its numerous forest preserves, offering accessible outdoor experiences. The region is characterized by relatively flat terrain, featuring woodlands, wetlands, and open fields, making it suitable for easy to moderate walks. These natural areas, such as Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve and Heron Creek Forest Preserve, provide opportunities to explore local flora and fauna. The landscape is shaped by glacial activity, resulting in gentle slopes and diverse ecosystems.
Best hiking trails around Long Grove
- The most popular hiking route is Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve loop — Long Grove, Illinois, a 2.0 miles (3.2 km) trail that takes 48 minutes to complete. This easy loop offers a pleasant walk through the preserve's varied habitats.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Half Day County Forest Preserve loop via Des Plaines River Trail — Vernon Hills, Illinois, an easy 4.5 miles (7.2 km) path. This route follows sections of the Des Plaines River Trail, providing riverside scenery.
- Local hikers also love the Century Park Arboretum loop — Vernon Hills, Illinois, a 2.0 miles (3.1 km) trail leading through an arboretum, often completed in about 47 minutes.
- Hiking around Long Grove is defined by woodlands, wetlands, and open fields within its forest preserves. The network offers options for different ability levels, primarily focusing on easy to moderate routes.
- The routes in Long Grove are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 400 hikers have used komoot to explore Long Grove's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 28, 2026
5.0
(2)
7
hikers
3.28km
00:50
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
11.8km
03:02
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
1
hikers
3.34km
00:51
0m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
29.9km
07:42
130m
140m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
48.7km
12:20
90m
100m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
wet after rain, buggy when too dry, mostly idylic though bumpy. Recommend at least 35mm tires
0
0
The Des Plaines River Trail runs through this surprisingly lush forest preserve. There's usually a porta pottie here from roughly May through October.
0
0
This stretch of the Des Plaines River Trail at Cahokia Flatwoods Forest Preserve guides hikers through a serene woodland, with a dirt path winding under tall oaks and maples. Surrounded by green undergrowth and dappled sunlight, it’s a peaceful escape near the river
0
0
Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve opens up to 408 acres with 5.5 miles of gravel trails open to walking, biking, and cross-country skiing along restored prairies, wetlands, and alongside the Buffalo Creek Reservoir.
0
0
This stretch of the Des Plaines River Trail at Camp Pine Woods Forest Preserve brings cyclists along a wide gravel path through a mix of oak-hickory woodlands and maple forests, set near the river. Surrounded by natural areas like sedge meadows and savannas, it’s a quiet spot with historical ties to a former WWII POW camp.
0
0
Dam No.1 Woods is a great spot to rest and recharge along the Des Plaines River Trail. With two sheltered picnic groves, it’s an ideal place for a lunch break. The scenic surroundings make it a relaxing stop, whether you're out for a casual family ride, just starting your cycling journey, or looking for a quick breather on a longer ride.
1
0
This stretch of the Des Plaines River Trail at Camp Pine Woods Forest Preserve brings hikers along a wide gravel path through a mix of oak-hickory woodlands and maple forests, set near the river. Surrounded by natural areas like sedge meadows and savannas, it’s a quiet spot with historical ties to a former WWII POW camp.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking trails around Long Grove?
Hiking trails in Long Grove are characterized by relatively flat terrain, featuring woodlands, wetlands, and open fields. The landscape was shaped by glacial activity, resulting in gentle slopes and diverse ecosystems, making most routes easy to moderate.
Are there many hiking options available in Long Grove?
Yes, Long Grove offers a good selection of hiking opportunities. There are over 50 hiking routes available, with the vast majority being easy, making them accessible for various fitness levels.
Are the hiking trails in Long Grove suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. The predominantly easy and flat trails within Long Grove's forest preserves are ideal for families. Many routes, like the Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve loop, offer pleasant walks through nature that are enjoyable for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Long Grove?
Many forest preserves in the Long Grove area are dog-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always best to check specific preserve rules before visiting, but generally, you can enjoy the trails with your canine companion.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while hiking in Long Grove?
The region's trails often pass through diverse natural settings including woodlands and wetlands. You can also find several lakes nearby, such as Independence Grove Lake and Minear Lake, offering scenic views and wildlife spotting opportunities. The Des Plaines River Trail – Half Day Forest Preserve also provides riverside scenery.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Long Grove?
Yes, many of the trails in Long Grove's forest preserves are designed as loops, offering convenient circular routes. An example is the Heron Creek Forest Preserve loop from Long Grove, which provides a complete experience without retracing your steps.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Long Grove?
The trails in Long Grove are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of the routes for a relaxing outdoor experience.
Is there parking available at the trailheads in Long Grove?
Most forest preserves and natural areas around Long Grove provide dedicated parking facilities for hikers. It's generally easy to find parking at popular spots like Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve and Half Day County Forest Preserve.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the hiking trails in Long Grove?
Long Grove is known for its historic village, which offers a variety of charming shops, cafes, and restaurants. While not directly at every trailhead, many dining options are a short drive away, perfect for a post-hike refreshment.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Long Grove?
Spring, summer, and fall all offer excellent hiking conditions in Long Grove. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer provides lush greenery, and fall showcases beautiful foliage. Winter hiking is also possible, though trails may be snow-covered.
Are there any paved trails in Long Grove for easier walking or accessibility?
While many trails are natural surfaces, some areas within the forest preserves may offer paved sections suitable for easier walking or those with strollers. For example, the Half Day County Forest Preserve loop via Des Plaines River Trail includes sections of the Des Plaines River Trail, which features paved surfaces in parts.
What kind of wildlife might I spot on the trails?
Long Grove's diverse ecosystems, including woodlands and wetlands, are home to various wildlife. Hikers often report seeing birds, deer, and smaller mammals. The preserves are also excellent for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons.
Most popular attractions around Long Grove
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
