Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Get the App

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Lyons Woods Loop Trail

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Lyons Woods Loop Trail

Easy

4.9

(9475)

9,476

hikers

Lyons Woods Loop Trail

Q: How long does it take to hike the Lyons Woods Loop Trail?

The trail is approximately 5.9 km (3.7 miles) long and typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete, depending on your pace.

Q: What is the difficulty level of the trail?

The Lyons Woods Loop Trail is considered easy . It features mostly wide, crushed-stone or gravel paths with gradual grades, making it accessible for a wide range of hikers, including families.

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

You'll experience a diverse mix of terrains, including wide, crushed-stone or gravel paths. The route traverses pine groves, prairies, oak woodlands, savannas, and wetlands, offering an intriguing patchwork of natural scenery.

Q: Are there any specific viewpoints or landmarks along the route?

Yes, a notable feature is the Lyons Woods Observation Deck , which provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching and viewing the diverse wildlife.

Q: Is the Lyons Woods Loop Trail dog-friendly?

The trail is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for all visitors.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit the trail?

The trail offers unique experiences year-round. Spring and fall are particularly good for birdwatching due to migratory species. The diverse plant life also makes it scenic in warmer months, and it's suitable for cross-country skiing in winter.

Q: Are there any permits or entrance fees for Lyons Woods Forest Preserve?

Based on available information, there are no specific permits or entrance fees mentioned for accessing the Lyons Woods Forest Preserve or its trails.

Q: Where can I park for the Lyons Woods Loop Trail?

Specific parking details are not provided in the trail data, but the preserve is located within the 345-acre Lyons Woods Forest Preserve in Waukegan, Illinois. Look for designated parking areas at the preserve's entrances.

Q: Does the trail connect to other paths?

Yes, the trail system connects to the regional Robert McClory Path and other local trails, parks, and communities via the Lyons Woods to Waukegan Savanna Trail. The route also passes through sections of the Lyons Woods Trails and the Lyons Woods Forest Preserve Trail.

Q: What kind of wildlife can I see along the trail?

Lyons Woods is a significant part of the Lake Michigan flyway and is known as a birder's paradise. You can spot numerous breeding warblers and migratory birds. The preserve is also home to five state-endangered species, one of which is federally threatened.

01:31

5.93km

20m

Hiking

Hike the easy Lyons Woods Loop Trail, a 3.7-mile route through diverse habitats in Waukegan, featuring an observation deck and rich wildlife

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1.46 km

Lyons Woods Forest Preserve

Nature Reserve

3.09 km

Lyons Woods Observation Deck

Highlight • Viewpoint

5.93 km

End point

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

5.91 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

5.89 km

< 100 m

Elevation

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

Weather

Monday 18 May

28°C

18°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

This route was planned by komoot.

Navigate

Send to Phone

Save

Edit route

Download GPX

Move start point

Embed on a website

Report an Issue

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to hike the Lyons Woods Loop Trail?

The trail is approximately 5.9 km (3.7 miles) long and typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete, depending on your pace.

What is the difficulty level of the trail?

The Lyons Woods Loop Trail is considered easy. It features mostly wide, crushed-stone or gravel paths with gradual grades, making it accessible for a wide range of hikers, including families.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the trail?

You'll experience a diverse mix of terrains, including wide, crushed-stone or gravel paths. The route traverses pine groves, prairies, oak woodlands, savannas, and wetlands, offering an intriguing patchwork of natural scenery.

Are there any specific viewpoints or landmarks along the route?

Yes, a notable feature is the Lyons Woods Observation Deck, which provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching and viewing the diverse wildlife.

Is the Lyons Woods Loop Trail dog-friendly?

The trail is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for all visitors.

What is the best time of year to visit the trail?

The trail offers unique experiences year-round. Spring and fall are particularly good for birdwatching due to migratory species. The diverse plant life also makes it scenic in warmer months, and it's suitable for cross-country skiing in winter.

Are there any permits or entrance fees for Lyons Woods Forest Preserve?

Based on available information, there are no specific permits or entrance fees mentioned for accessing the Lyons Woods Forest Preserve or its trails.

Where can I park for the Lyons Woods Loop Trail?

Specific parking details are not provided in the trail data, but the preserve is located within the 345-acre Lyons Woods Forest Preserve in Waukegan, Illinois. Look for designated parking areas at the preserve's entrances.

Does the trail connect to other paths?

Yes, the trail system connects to the regional Robert McClory Path and other local trails, parks, and communities via the Lyons Woods to Waukegan Savanna Trail. The route also passes through sections of the Lyons Woods Trails and the Lyons Woods Forest Preserve Trail.

What kind of wildlife can I see along the trail?

Lyons Woods is a significant part of the Lake Michigan flyway and is known as a birder's paradise. You can spot numerous breeding warblers and migratory birds. The preserve is also home to five state-endangered species, one of which is federally threatened.

Is the trail suitable for families or beginners?

Absolutely! The trail's easy difficulty, wide paths, and diverse scenery make it an excellent choice for families and beginners looking for a pleasant outdoor experience.