The best walks and hikes around Westmont
9
hikers
9
hikes
Hiking around Westmont, Illinois, offers access to diverse natural landscapes, primarily characterized by its numerous forest preserves. The region features a predominantly flat terrain with woodlands, prairies, and lakes, often connected by well-maintained crushed gravel or paved paths. Salt Creek also flows through the area, providing riverside paths. These features create varied opportunities for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails around Westmont
- The most popular hiking route is Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail: Route 271 to Decker Avenue, a 8.5 miles (13.7 km) trail that takes 3 hours 45 minutes to complete. This moderate route features varied terrain and forest sections.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Stackhouse Park Trail, an easy 4.4 miles (7.1 km) path. This trail offers a peaceful experience through parkland.
- Local hikers also love the Laurel Ridge Shelter Trail, a 1.3 miles (2.0 km) trail leading through woodlands, often completed in about 32 minutes.
- Hiking around Westmont is defined by well-maintained forest preserve trails, riverside paths along Salt Creek, and tranquil lakeside loops. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family-friendly paths to more challenging routes.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. 8 hikers have used komoot to explore Westmont's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
2
hikers
13.7km
03:45
160m
310m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
2.03km
00:32
10m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7.07km
01:56
70m
180m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
128km
37:00
2,990m
3,380m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
2
hikers
26.8km
07:19
400m
400m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This shelter area located north of Route 31 is one of eight strategically placed along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. Each shelter area has five Adirondack-style lean-to shelters, room for up to 25 tents, bathrooms, fire pits, and garbage cans. Overnight stays at shelter areas must be reserved ahead of time with Laurel Ridge State Park. There is a seasonal stream that runs through the south end of this shelter area near shelters #1 and #2 that can serve as a good water supply.
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This shelter area just off Route 653 is one of eight strategically placed along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. Each shelter area has five Adirondack-style lean-to shelters, room for up to 25 tents, bathrooms, fire pits, and garbage cans. Overnight stays at shelter areas must be reserved ahead of time with Laurel Ridge State Park. At this shelter area there is a water pump with untreated water in case you need to fill up your water supply.
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This shelter area just off Route 271 is one of eight strategically placed along the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail. Each shelter area has five Adirondack-style lean-to shelters, room for up to 25 tents, bathrooms, fire pits, and garbage cans. Overnight stays at shelter areas must be reserved ahead of time with Laurel Ridge State Park.
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Tucked away along Jersey Hollow Road, this trailhead connects to the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail around mile 11. There is a gravel parking lot here, and it connects to one of the quieter, less trafficked areas of the southern end of the trail. There is a kiosk with trail information and a registry box here for anyone starting the trail from this point.
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The Youghiogheny River runs parallel to the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail here around the southern terminus of the trail at Ohiopyle State Park. There are some great views and overlooks of the river along various points of the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, especially around miles 6 and 11, but the close-up view of the river near Ohiopyle makes for a great ending or start to the trail.
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Seven Springs is a mountain ski resort with multi-use trails in the off-season. The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail runs directly through the area and past Tahoe Lodge, with views of the nearby lake. For through hikers, this is a great spot to rest for a meal and take in some views of the highest point on the trail.
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South of Middle Fork Road, this overlook gives you a nice panorama of Fayette County, Chestnut Ridge, and even the Pittsburgh skyline in the distance.
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Known for its demanding terrain, the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail is a favorite among experienced backpackers seeking a challenge. However, the trail also caters to casual hikers with less strenuous sections.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are the hiking trails around Westmont suitable for dogs?
Yes, many of the forest preserves and trails near Westmont are dog-friendly, provided your canine companion is kept on a leash. Locations like Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve and Bemis Woods welcome leashed dogs, making them great options for hiking with your pet.
Are there any hiking trails near Westmont that feature waterfalls?
Absolutely! Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is a notable location near Westmont that features a picturesque waterfall. The preserve's 9-mile loop trail, including the Rocky Glen Waterfall via Waterfall Glen Main Trail, offers scenic views and crosses streams and rivers.
What are some good family-friendly hiking options near Westmont?
Westmont offers several easy, family-friendly trails. Hidden Lake Forest Preserve provides over 2 miles of crushed limestone trails around Eagle Lake and Round Meadow Lake, suitable for all ages. The Laurel Ridge Shelter Trail is another easy option, leading through woodlands.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the Westmont area?
Yes, circular routes are common around Westmont. Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve features a popular 9-mile loop trail. Bemis Woods offers a 3.1-mile loop, and Portage Woods has the Salt Creek Greenway Black Unpaved Loop, an easy 2.3-mile circuit around a pond.
What natural features or attractions can I discover while hiking near Westmont?
Hiking near Westmont allows you to explore diverse natural landscapes. You can find tranquil lakes at Hidden Lake Forest Preserve, scenic overlooks with views of the Chicago skyline at Greene Valley Forest Preserve, and the Salt Creek flowing through Fullersburg Woods. Many preserves also feature rich woodlands, prairies, and diverse plant species.
Are there parking facilities available at the trailheads for Westmont hikes?
Most forest preserves and trail systems around Westmont, such as Waterfall Glen, Hidden Lake, and Greene Valley, provide designated parking areas at their trailheads or visitor centers, making access convenient for hikers.
Are there any challenging hiking trails for experienced hikers near Westmont?
For those seeking more challenging options, the Palos Trail System offers trails with varied terrain and hills. While not directly in Westmont, the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail, a difficult 128 km route, provides a significant challenge for experienced hikers.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on Westmont's trails?
The forest preserves around Westmont are home to abundant wildlife. You might spot various bird species, deer, and smaller mammals. Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve, for example, is known for its over 700 native plant species and diverse animal inhabitants.
When is the best time of year to go hiking around Westmont?
Hiking around Westmont is enjoyable throughout the year. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers vibrant fall foliage. The well-maintained, often crushed gravel paths make many trails accessible even in winter for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, though conditions should always be checked.
What kind of trail surfaces can I expect on Westmont's hiking paths?
The hiking trails around Westmont are primarily characterized by well-maintained surfaces. You'll frequently encounter crushed gravel or paved paths, especially in the forest preserves. Some areas may also feature natural dirt paths, particularly in more wooded or less developed sections.
How many hiking trails are available around Westmont?
There are several hiking routes available around Westmont. Komoot currently lists 9 distinct hiking tours in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging excursions.
Are there options for longer hiking excursions or multi-day trips near Westmont?
While many trails are suitable for day hikes, the Palos Trail System offers extensive networks for longer excursions. Additionally, trails like those in Bemis Woods connect to the Salt Creek Greenway Trail, providing opportunities to extend your hike significantly.
Most popular routes around Westmont
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