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Mallard Lake Loop

Hiking trails & Routes

United States

Illinois

Dupage County

Mallard Lake Loop

Easy

2.6

(10)

hikers

Mallard Lake Loop

Q: How long does it take to hike the Mallard Lake Loop?

The Mallard Lake Loop is an easy hike that typically takes around 35-40 minutes to complete. This estimate is based on the 2.3 km (1.46 miles) distance and an average hiking pace.

Q: What is the difficulty level of this trail?

This trail is rated as easy . With minimal elevation gain (less than 7 meters) and a relatively short distance, it's suitable for most hikers, including families and beginners.

Q: Is the Mallard Lake Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the Mallard Lake Loop is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the natural beauty of the area for all visitors.

Q: What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?

The terrain around Mallard Lake often features a mix of surfaces. While some sections may be paved, you can expect transitions to natural, unpaved paths. These might include compacted dirt or gravel, offering a varied experience as you loop around the lake.

Q: What wildlife might I see along the trail?

The area around Mallard Lake is excellent for wildlife viewing, especially birds. Keep an eye out for various waterfowl like mallards, geese, and ducks, as well as egrets and herons. You might also spot squirrels and other small mammals in the wooded sections.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit the Mallard Lake Loop?

The Mallard Lake Loop is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with changing foliage in autumn. Summer is great for birdwatching, while winter can provide a serene, snowy landscape, though conditions may vary.

Q: Are there any notable features or points of interest?

Absolutely! The trail offers frequent views of Mallard Lake itself. You'll also traverse parts of the North Central DuPage Regional Trail , which adds to the experience. The area is known for its natural beauty and opportunities for birdwatching.

Q: Does this trail connect with other paths?

Yes, the Mallard Lake Loop utilizes and intersects with other trails. A significant portion of the route follows the North Central DuPage Regional Trail . You may also encounter sections of the Mallard Lake Trail and the Buck Tail Trail, offering options for extending your outing.

Q: Where can I park to access the Mallard Lake Loop?

Parking is available within the Mallard Lake Forest Preserve. Look for designated parking areas that provide convenient access to the trailhead. Specific parking details can often be found on the forest preserve's official website.

Q: Are there any permits or entrance fees required for the Mallard Lake Forest Preserve?

Generally, there are no entrance fees or permits required for day use of the Mallard Lake Forest Preserve for activities like hiking. However, it's always a good idea to check the official website for the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County for the most current regulations, especially for specific activities or group events.

00:36

2.35km

10m

Hiking

Embark on the Mallard Lake Loop for an easy hike that offers frequent, pleasant views of the lake itself. This route winds through a mix of natural surfaces, taking you through both open areas and wooded sections, providing a varied and enjoyable outdoor experience. Covering 1.5 miles (2.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 23 feet (7 metres), you can complete this loop in about 35 minutes, making it a perfect quick escape.

Planning your visit to the Mallard Lake Loop is straightforward. You will find convenient parking located near the trailhead, making access simple for your outing. Since the trail is rated easy and has a short duration, it is an excellent choice for a spontaneous adventure without much prior preparation. There are no specific warnings regarding snow conditions, road closures, or permits required for this accessible route.

As you hike, keep an eye out for the local wildlife that makes the Mallard Lake area its home. The lake is a key highlight, often hosting various waterfowl, including mallards and geese, which contribute to the serene atmosphere. You might also spot squirrels along the path as you explore the natural surroundings of the Mallard Lake Forest Preserve.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1.29 km

North Central DuPage Regional Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Stretching for 11.6 miles, this trail features a mix of crushed limestone and paved surfaces. The section loops around Mallard Lake, providing a pleasant view of the water throughout the journey.

Tip by

2.02 km

Mallard Lake

Highlight • Lake

Mallard Lake is a enchanting place where to spend leisure time. Walking, birdwatching, fishing are some of the activities you can do there.

Tip by

2.35 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

2.21 km

130 m

Surfaces

2.28 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Tuesday 28 July

26°C

19°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to hike the Mallard Lake Loop?

The Mallard Lake Loop is an easy hike that typically takes around 35-40 minutes to complete. This estimate is based on the 2.3 km (1.46 miles) distance and an average hiking pace.

What is the difficulty level of this trail?

This trail is rated as easy. With minimal elevation gain (less than 7 meters) and a relatively short distance, it's suitable for most hikers, including families and beginners.

Is the Mallard Lake Loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the Mallard Lake Loop is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain the natural beauty of the area for all visitors.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?

The terrain around Mallard Lake often features a mix of surfaces. While some sections may be paved, you can expect transitions to natural, unpaved paths. These might include compacted dirt or gravel, offering a varied experience as you loop around the lake.

What wildlife might I see along the trail?

The area around Mallard Lake is excellent for wildlife viewing, especially birds. Keep an eye out for various waterfowl like mallards, geese, and ducks, as well as egrets and herons. You might also spot squirrels and other small mammals in the wooded sections.

What is the best time of year to visit the Mallard Lake Loop?

The Mallard Lake Loop is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with changing foliage in autumn. Summer is great for birdwatching, while winter can provide a serene, snowy landscape, though conditions may vary.

Are there any notable features or points of interest?

Absolutely! The trail offers frequent views of Mallard Lake itself. You'll also traverse parts of the North Central DuPage Regional Trail, which adds to the experience. The area is known for its natural beauty and opportunities for birdwatching.

Does this trail connect with other paths?

Yes, the Mallard Lake Loop utilizes and intersects with other trails. A significant portion of the route follows the North Central DuPage Regional Trail. You may also encounter sections of the Mallard Lake Trail and the Buck Tail Trail, offering options for extending your outing.

Where can I park to access the Mallard Lake Loop?

Parking is available within the Mallard Lake Forest Preserve. Look for designated parking areas that provide convenient access to the trailhead. Specific parking details can often be found on the forest preserve's official website.

Are there any permits or entrance fees required for the Mallard Lake Forest Preserve?

Generally, there are no entrance fees or permits required for day use of the Mallard Lake Forest Preserve for activities like hiking. However, it's always a good idea to check the official website for the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County for the most current regulations, especially for specific activities or group events.

Is the Mallard Lake Loop suitable for families with children?

Yes, due to its easy difficulty rating, relatively short distance, and minimal elevation gain, the Mallard Lake Loop is an excellent choice for families with children. It offers a pleasant outdoor experience without being overly strenuous.