The best walks and hikes around Zion
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Hiking around Zion features a landscape characterized by relatively flat terrain with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for accessible outdoor activities. The region primarily offers routes through local preserves and parks, often featuring wooded areas and open spaces. These trails are generally well-maintained, providing straightforward paths for walkers and hikers. The area's geography supports easy to moderate activity levels, focusing on natural exploration within a suburban-natural interface.
Best hiking trails around Zion
- The most popular hiking route is Lake…
Last updated: July 11, 2026
22
hikers
4.76km
01:12
10m
10m
The Lake Andrea Loop offers a refreshing escape with continuous water views as you trace the shores of the spring-fed Lake Andrea. This easy 3.0-mile (4.8 km) route features a…
4
hikers
5.93km
01:31
20m
20m
This easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) loop, with a minimal 67 feet (20 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to complete, offering a delightful journey through…
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16.3km
04:07
20m
30m
If you're seeking a tranquil escape into nature without venturing too far from civilization, the Des Plaines River Trail: State Line to Gurnee is an excellent choice. This 10.1-mile (16.3…
3.47km
00:53
10m
10m
The Pine Dunes Yellow Loop offers a refreshing, easy 2.2-mile (3.5 km) hike through some of Lake County's most beautiful rolling terrain. You'll wander along gravel paths, passing through diverse…
1.20km
00:18
0m
0m
The Illinois Beach Trail offers a unique opportunity to experience Illinois' only remaining beach ridge shoreline along Lake Michigan. As you walk, you'll encounter a varied terrain of sand, crushed…
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Popular around Zion
Tips from the Community
A bridge with a metal frame and wooden flooring carries hikers over a small stream flowing into the Des Plaines River. It’s a quiet place along the trail to pause and hear the water below. Visit in the early morning for a calm stop and a chance to see dragonflies near the stream’s edge
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This viewpoint gives hikers a great view of the 86-acre Sterling Lake within Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve. Visit at sunrise for a calm experience and a chance to see deer or waterfowl near the shore!
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You will find many beautiful lakes and rivers on this Blue loop. This course is part of the Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve.
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You will find many beautiful lakes and rivers on this Blue loop. This course is part of the Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve.
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blue and yellow loops
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking trails around Zion?
The hiking trails around Zion are characterized by relatively flat terrain with minimal elevation changes. You'll find routes primarily through local preserves and parks, often featuring wooded areas and open spaces, making them suitable for accessible outdoor activities.
How many hiking trails are available in this Zion area?
There are 5 hiking routes detailed in this guide for the Zion area, offering a range of options for local exploration.
What are the typical difficulty levels for hikes in Zion?
The trails in this Zion area are predominantly easy to moderate. Out of the 5 routes, 4 are classified as easy, and 1 is moderate, making the area accessible for various fitness levels.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Zion?
Yes, many of the trails are suitable for families due to their flat terrain and easy difficulty. For example, the Lake Andrea loop from Pleasant Prairie is an easy, scenic route perfect for a family outing.
What kind of natural features or attractions can I see along the trails?
While hiking around Zion, you can explore various natural features. Highlights include the Pond in Sedge Meadow Forest Preserve, the Stone Bridge Over the River in Van Patten Woods Forest Preserve, and the expansive Illinois Beach State Park. You can also visit Van Patten Woods for a forested experience.
Are there any circular routes available for hiking?
Yes, the guide features several circular routes. A popular choice is the Pine Dunes Forest Preserve loop from Pine Dunes Forest Preserve, which offers a tranquil natural setting.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Zion?
Hikers using komoot often appreciate the accessibility and natural beauty of the trails. The area is known for its well-maintained paths through local green spaces, forest preserves, and lake-side paths, providing straightforward and enjoyable walks.
Can I find trails that offer a lakeside experience?
Absolutely. The Lake Andrea loop from Pleasant Prairie is a prime example, offering a beautiful scenic loop directly around Lake Andrea.
Are there any trails that go through forest preserves?
Yes, the region is home to several forest preserves. The Pine Dunes Forest Preserve loop from Pine Dunes Forest Preserve and the Lyons Woods Forest Preserve loop from Lyons Woods Forest Preserve are excellent options for hiking through wooded areas.
What is the longest hike featured in this guide for Zion?
The longest hike in this guide is the Hiking loop from Zion, which covers 5.2 miles (8.3 km) and typically takes about 2 hours and 6 minutes to complete.
Is there a trail that offers access to a beach?
Yes, the Hiking loop from Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park provides an opportunity to explore the natural beauty around Illinois Beach State Park.
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