The best walks and hikes around Wilmette

The North Branch Trail: Skokie Lagoons Loop is a fantastic option for a long, immersive hike near Chicago, offering 12.8 miles (20.5 km) of diverse scenery. You'll wind through woodlands and open fields, tracing the edges of the beautiful Skokie Lagoons, which are a central feature of the area. Despite its "difficult" rating, the route is remarkably flat, with only 83 feet (25 metres) of elevation gain, making it more of an endurance test than a steep climb, and it typically takes around 5 hours and 10 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with multiple parking lots and amenities like restrooms and picnic areas conveniently located along the trail. The eastern side of the loop is particularly noted for its superior scenery and quieter atmosphere, so consider starting there. This trail is a popular choice for those seeking a long, accessible hike, and it's best enjoyed during the milder seasons of spring and fall for comfortable temperatures and vibrant natural beauty.

Beyond its natural appeal, the Skokie Lagoons hold historical significance, having been a major conservation effort during the Great Depression, with a commemorative plaque honoring the Civilian Conservation Corps' work. Wildlife spotting is a highlight, with deer, cormorants, and blue herons frequently seen. The northern end of the North Branch Trail also connects to the Chicago Botanic Garden, offering an additional point of interest for those looking to extend their day.

The North Branch Red Paved Trail offers a delightful and accessible escape into nature, perfect for a relaxed outing. This easy 2.3-mile (3.7 km) route, with just 19 feet (6 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 56 minutes to complete, guiding you through serene forest preserves. You'll enjoy a smooth, paved path that meanders alongside the North Branch of the Chicago River and through areas like Watersmeet Woods, where you might spot deer grazing peacefully.

Planning your visit is simple, as the trail is well-equipped with convenient parking lots, restrooms, and picnic areas. It's a multi-use path, welcoming hikers, bikers, and runners alike, and your leashed canine companions are also invited. The trail's smooth, renovated surface makes it a great option for a quick, easy walk any time of year.

Part of the larger North Branch Trail system, this route connects to other regional paths and offers access to the expansive Chicago Botanic Gardens. It's a popular choice for its connectivity and the chance to experience the diverse natural scenery of the Forest Preserves of Cook County, providing a pleasant outdoor experience without significant effort.

Hike the difficult 30.7-mile North Shore Channel Trail, featuring waterside views, urban art at Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park, and natura

The North Branch Orange Trail offers a truly serene hiking experience, guiding you through quiet forests where the city's hustle melts away. This unpaved path meanders alongside the North Branch of the Chicago River and the Skokie River, providing glimpses of the Skokie Lagoons and a lush, green landscape, especially around Harms Woods West. It's an easy 2.5-mile (4.0 km) route with only 36 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain, making it a perfect, quick escape that takes just over an hour.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as parking is generally available at trailheads within Harms Woods. The trail is well-maintained and accessible, making it a great option for a spontaneous outing. While lovely in any season, consider visiting in autumn to experience the vibrant fall colors that transform the forest into a picturesque scene.

This trail stands out for its ability to provide a rustic, natural feel despite its proximity to urban areas. It's part of the larger North Branch Trail system but offers a distinct, unpaved experience. Keep an eye out for wildlife, particularly deer, which are a common sight and often unfazed by human presence in this protected forest preserve habitat.