The best walks and hikes around River Grove

Yes, the area is very accommodating for beginners and families. Most trails are rated as easy, following relatively flat terrain along the river and through woodlands. A great option to consider is the Robinson Woods North loop from O'Hare, which is a manageable length and offers a pleasant walk through the forest preserve.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome in the Forest Preserves of Cook County, including Thatcher Woods and Schiller Woods, as long as they are on a leash. The trails along the Des Plaines River provide plenty of space for you and your canine companion to explore.

You'll find a mix of surfaces. The Des Plaines River Trail features sections of pavement, crushed stone, and dirt single-track. Trails within the forest preserves, like Thatcher Woods, are typically unpaved footpaths that can become muddy after rain, so proper footwear is recommended.

The main option for long-distance hiking is the Des Plaines River Trail, which runs for over 56 miles through Cook and Lake Counties. You can start in River Grove and hike north or south for as long as you like, passing through numerous connected forest preserves.

The river corridor and forest preserves are rich with wildlife. It's common to spot white-tailed deer, numerous bird species, turtles, and snakes. The woodlands and riverbanks provide a vital habitat, offering a true sense of nature close to the city.

The immediate River Grove area is characterized by flat, riverside terrain without natural waterfalls. However, if you're willing to take a short drive, the highly-regarded Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Darien features a popular man-made waterfall along its trail loop.

Besides the main preserves of Thatcher and Schiller Woods, hikers enjoy several other nearby spots. Some local favorites include:

• Catherine Chevalier Woods: Offers expansive natural habitats and trails for a peaceful walk.
• Jerome Huppert Woods: A beautiful spot right on the Des Plaines River, perfect for enjoying seasonal colors.
• Busse Woods: A large, popular preserve known for its lakeside trail and even an elk pasture.

The trails are predominantly easy to moderate. Out of the 15 routes in the area, 10 are classified as easy and 5 as moderate. The terrain is mostly flat with very little elevation change, making it accessible for most fitness levels. The main challenge can be the trail length or muddy conditions on unpaved paths.

Yes, several access points to the Des Plaines River Trail and adjacent forest preserves like Thatcher Woods are accessible via public transportation. Bus routes run along major roads such as Thatcher Avenue, Division Street, and North Avenue, with stops often within a short walking distance of a trailhead.

Yes, the Des Plaines River Trail is dotted with remnants of the past. As you hike, particularly south of the Belmont Avenue bridge, you can spot old railroad bridge pylons and the foundations of riverside homes from the early 20th century, giving the walk a unique, archaeological feel.

The trails are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the woodlands, the scenic views along the Des Plaines River, and the accessibility of the trail network.

Yes, for a route that connects two preserves, consider the Robinson Woods North – Robinson Woods South loop from O'Hare. This easy loop is just under 5 miles and provides a great tour of the woodlands in that area.