The best walks and hikes around Hickory Hills
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Hiking trails near Hickory Hills Illinois are primarily located within the Palos Trail System, the largest area of preserved land in Cook County. The region's landscape is a product of the Valparaiso Moraine, resulting in rolling hills, oak-hickory forests, prairies, and wetlands. Hikers can explore routes that pass by scenic features like Bullfrog Lake and Maple Lake.
Best hiking trails around Hickory Hills
- The most popular hiking route is Palos Yellow Single Track Trail — Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve, a 8.9 mile (14.4 km) trail that takes about 3 hours 40 minutes to complete. This route explores the bluff and floodplain forests native to the Des Plaines River Valley.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Bullfrog Lake loop from Palos Hills, a moderate 9.3 mile (15.0 km) path. The trail circles the lake and traverses the surrounding woodlands.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Maple Lake loop from Palos Hills, a 3.1 mile (5.0 km) trail leading through a mix of forest and lakeside scenery, often completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Hiking around Hickory Hills is defined by rolling hills, extensive oak-hickory forests, and numerous lakes and wetlands. The large network of interconnected trails offers options for both short, easy walks and longer, more challenging hikes.
- The routes in Hickory Hills are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 120 reviews. More than 570 hikers have used komoot to explore Hickory Hills's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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The Palos Yellow and Purple Loop offers a delightful journey through the unique glacial landscape of the Palos Forest Preserves. As you navigate this easy 2.9-mile (4.6 km) route, you'll encounter a mix of unpaved paths, crushed limestone, and wide gravel trails, winding through lush forested areas and open meadows. The trail's gentle 197 feet (60 metres) of elevation gain makes it a perfect option for a relaxed outing, providing a pleasant escape into nature that takes about 1 hour and 14 minutes to complete.
To plan your visit, note that the Palos Yellow and Purple Loop is part of the extensive Palos Trail System, with various parking options available within the preserves. While the trail is accessible year-round, consider visiting in autumn for spectacular foliage or in summer when the woodlands are vibrant. Always check for local conditions, especially after rain, as some sections can become muddy, and be aware that some parts of the Yellow Trail are multi-use and shared with mountain bikers and horses.
This trail is a fantastic introduction to the Palos Preserves, a significant natural area near Chicago known for its diverse ecosystems like oak savannas and woodlands, all shaped by ancient glacial activity. The region is also a haven for birdlife and offers scenic vistas from bluffs, providing a rich natural experience uncommon for the Chicago area. It's an excellent choice for those seeking beginner hiking trails in the Palos area or a family-friendly outdoor activity.
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This easy 3.5-mile hiking loop in the Palos Trail System offers diverse woodlands, prairies, and the unique Cranberry Slough Nature Preserve
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18.8km
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The Palos Trail System: Maple Lake Singletrack Loop is a truly rewarding moderate hike, stretching 11.7 miles (18.8 km) with 545 feet (166 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in just under 5 hours. This route winds through dense woodlands on singletrack trails, offering a feeling of cozy remoteness as you pass by the serene waters of Maple Lake and Rainbarrel Slough. Expect rolling hills and varied terrain that keeps things interesting without being overly strenuous, making it a fantastic choice for a solid day out in nature.
Planning your visit is easy, as there are no permits or fees required to access these trails. The Palos system is multi-use, so you'll share the path with mountain bikers and runners, and it's a dog-friendly trail as long as your furry friend is on a leash. While beautiful year-round, consider visiting in spring for wildflowers or fall for vibrant foliage, and always check for trailhead parking availability, especially on busy weekends.
This loop is a key part of the larger Palos Preserves, which boasts nearly 15,000 acres of preserved land and represents the largest concentration of such land in Cook County. The area's unique glacial moraine landscape means you'll encounter significant elevation changes for the region, adding to the trail's character. Maple Lake itself, a 60-acre body of water, was created by damming a ravine in the 1920s, adding a touch of history to your scenic journey.
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The Lake Katherine Trail in Palos Heights offers a wonderfully easy and accessible hiking experience, perfect for a quick nature fix. This 1.1-mile (1.7 km) route, with a negligible 10 feet (3 metres) of elevation gain, winds through the Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens. You'll enjoy a flat, woodchip-based path that circles the lake, passing botanical gardens, a prairie, and an arboretum. It's a tranquil 25-minute walk where you can spot swans and ducks, and even a man-made waterfall.
This family-friendly trail is ideal for beginners or anyone seeking a leisurely stroll. Parking is available at the Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens, making access straightforward. It's a great option for a short outing, and its easy difficulty means you don't need extensive planning or gear, just comfortable shoes.
Beyond the scenic loop, the Lake Katherine Trail connects to the Cal-Sag Channel Trail, offering additional biking opportunities for those wanting to extend their adventure. The area is rich in local flora and provides a peaceful setting for wildlife viewing, including the possibility of spotting a beaver lodge. The Storybook Trail adds a unique, engaging element for children, making it a popular route for families.
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If you're looking for a peaceful hike through diverse woodlands in Cook County, Illinois, the Orange, Yellow, and Brown Loop is a solid choice. This moderate 5.0-mile (8.1 km) route guides you through the serene Spears Woods and along parts of the Palos Yellow Trail, offering a pleasant journey through oak savannas and maple woodlands. The highlight for many is the unique Cranberry Slough, one of Illinois's rare peat bogs, providing a distinct ecological feature to observe. With only 157 feet (48 metres) of elevation gain, it's a relatively flat path, making it accessible for most hikers and a great way to spend about 2 hours and 6 minutes outdoors. Expect a tranquil experience with opportunities for wildlife spotting, especially birds.
Planning your visit to the Orange, Yellow, and Brown Loop is straightforward, with ample parking available at the trailhead within the Palos Forest Preserves. While the trail is generally open, it's always a good idea to check for any local advisories, especially regarding trail conditions after heavy rain, as some sections can become muddy. The best time of year to hike this trail is often spring for wildflowers or autumn for the stunning fall colors, though it offers a refreshing escape in any season. Remember to keep dogs on a leash if you bring them along, as this is a dog-friendly trail.
This trail system is part of the larger Palos Forest Preserves, an extensive network of natural areas known for their ecological significance and recreational opportunities. The presence of Cranberry Slough underscores the region's unique natural heritage, showcasing a rare wetland ecosystem. Beyond the loop itself, the area provides a rich habitat for various wildlife, including deer and numerous bird species, making it a rewarding destination for nature enthusiasts. It's a fantastic option if you're seeking a moderate, family-friendly hike that connects you with Illinois's natural landscapes.
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Tips from the Community
The surrounding forest and the variety of migratory birds spotted at Maple Lake make it a peaceful stop while hiking in Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve. The lake supports a healthy ecosystem for aquatic plants and animals, so take your time to observe and appreciate it.
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This is an incredible gravel trail, pretty large and definitely well-maintained! Plus, keep your eyes peeled for some majestic deer! 🤩
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McClaughry Springs Woods is a preserved area along the Mill Creek, with a packed-dirt trail system that goes through the green forest. During winter you can find the preserved area with a soft blanket of snow covering the land. This a great place to birdwatch, as it’s a migratory hotspot to more than 120 species of birds.
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One of the country's oldest and largest conservation districts, this park encompasses nearly 70,000 acres of managed land. With over 40 miles of unpaved trails, it is an ideal destination for hikers, runners, and bikers.
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This area provides a tranquil experience in a lush green environment, connecting with the Palos Trail System. It features picnic areas and expansive open fields, providing excellent spots to take a break.
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Trails from the Palos Trail System wind through rolling hills and deep ravines, offering a scenic journey through lush greenery. Birdwatching is excellent in this area, with a diverse range of 120 bird species.
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This little slough is one of many wetlands sprinkled throughout the Paw Paw Nature Preserve, which is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. The preserve is threaded through with fun singletrack trails, but you'll need to leave Fido at home: Dogs are not allowed.
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Discover gardens, a waterfall, lakeside trails & native trees in the beautiful nature center and botanic gardens. The lake and gardens are free to enter and provide a beautiful location for a family-friendly stroll.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the Hickory Hills area?
Yes, the area offers several easier trails perfect for a family outing. For a shorter walk, consider the Hiking loop from Palos Hills. This 3.4-mile (5.5 km) trail is generally flat and provides a pleasant experience through the woods without significant climbs.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails around Hickory Hills?
Yes, dogs are welcome on most trails in the Palos Trail System, provided they are leashed. The extensive network of paths offers plenty of space for you and your canine companion to explore the forests and meadows. Always check local signage at trailheads for specific regulations.
Where can I find parking for the Palos Trail System?
There are numerous parking lots throughout the Forest Preserves of Cook County that provide access to the Palos Trail System. Popular starting points with ample parking include the lots near Cranberry Slough Nature Preserve and the Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center. It's best to arrive early on weekends as these spots can fill up quickly.
Are there any paved trails for hiking or walking?
While the Palos Trail System is best known for its unpaved single-track and wider dirt trails, there are some paved sections available. These are often multi-use paths suitable for walking, cycling, and strollers. For a dedicated paved experience, you might explore trails in nearby forest preserves, but the core Hickory Hills hiking experience is on natural surfaces.
What are the trail conditions like in the Palos Preserves?
The trails are mostly dirt and crushed limestone, winding through rolling, forested terrain. They can become muddy and slippery after rain, especially in lower-lying areas. The paths are generally well-maintained, but it's always a good idea to wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip.
How does hiking in Hickory Hills compare to Waterfall Glen?
Both offer excellent hiking, but with different characteristics. The Palos Trail System near Hickory Hills is known for its vast, interconnected network of hilly, single-track trails through dense oak-hickory forests. Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve features a main, wide, crushed-gravel loop that is relatively flat, making it very popular for runners and walkers, in addition to its namesake waterfall.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The diverse habitats of the Palos Preserves, including forests, prairies, and wetlands, support a variety of wildlife. It's common to see white-tailed deer, squirrels, and numerous bird species. Near water features like Bullfrog Lake or the wetlands in Cranberry Slough Nature Preserve, you might also spot waterfowl, turtles, and beavers.
Are there any challenging hikes in the area?
Yes, while many trails are moderate, you can find a challenge by combining different loops to create a long-distance hike with significant cumulative elevation gain. The Dan McMahon Woods to Spear Woods loop is a great example of a moderately challenging 6.2-mile (10 km) route through the rolling topography of the Cranberry Slough area.
What do other hikers enjoy about the trails around Hickory Hills?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the feeling of being immersed in nature so close to the city, the extensive and well-marked trail system, and the beautiful rolling hills that offer a more engaging hike than typical Midwestern terrain.
What is the landscape like around Hickory Hills?
The hiking is defined by the rolling hills of the Valparaiso Moraine. You'll hike through expansive oak-hickory forests, open prairies, and around numerous scenic lakes and wetlands. This varied terrain provides a rich and dynamic hiking experience that changes with the seasons.
Are there any notable nature preserves to visit for hiking?
Absolutely. The area is home to several important preserves.
Cranberry Slough Nature Preserve is a local favorite, featuring a unique glacial peat bog and a mosaic of prairie and savanna with miles of trails.
Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve, one of the oldest in Illinois, protects the unique bluff and floodplain forests along the Des Plaines River Valley.
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