Des Plaines River Trail: Adler Memorial to Old School Forest Preserve

The hike from Adler Memorial Park to Old School Forest Preserve is approximately 7.7 kilometers (4.8 miles) and typically takes around 1 hour and 58 minutes to complete at a moderate pace. This duration can vary depending on your speed and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The terrain is generally flat to gently rolling, making it an easy hike. The path is often wide, well-packed, and composed of crushed stone. While it starts near the river, after passing Rockland Road, the trail veers away from the immediate riverbank for nearly four miles, winding through dense woodlands, open prairies, and wetlands before reaching Old School Forest Preserve.

Yes, this section of the Des Plaines River Trail is dog-friendly. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.

No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required to access the Des Plaines River Trail or the Old School Forest Preserve. These areas are part of the Lake County Forest Preserves, which are generally free and open to the public.

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring offers lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while autumn provides vibrant fall foliage. August is particularly beautiful at Old School Forest Preserve, with prairie patches bursting with native flowers like golden alexanders and purple milkweed. Even in winter, it's suitable for cross-country skiing or snowmobiling on designated sections.

You can typically find parking at Adler Memorial Park, which serves as the starting point for this segment of the trail. Old School Forest Preserve also offers parking facilities if you plan to start or end your hike there.

The trail and surrounding forest preserves are rich in wildlife. Hikers may spot various animals, including bluebirds, foxes, screech owls, deer, and a variety of birds, snakes, and turtles. The extensive restoration efforts in the area contribute to its ecological value.

Yes, beyond the scenic natural landscapes of woodlands, prairies, and wetlands, you'll pass by Minear Lake. At Old School Forest Preserve, you'll encounter impressive large oak trees and beautiful prairie patches. Adler Memorial Park itself features a playground and picnic pavilions, while Old School Forest Preserve offers additional picnic areas, a sled hill, and a fitness trail.

Absolutely! This section of the Des Plaines River Trail is considered 'easy' due to its flat to gently rolling terrain and well-maintained surfaces. This makes it suitable for hikers of all skill levels, including beginners and families looking for an accessible outdoor experience.

Yes, the Des Plaines River Trail is part of a larger network. It connects to numerous other trails within the various forest preserves it traverses. From Old School Forest Preserve, it's possible to travel south towards Lincolnshire without crossing major roads, offering opportunities for extended exploration. This route also covers sections of the North Shore Bike Path, OBT-7, and the Grand Illinois Trail - McHenry to Chicago.

Both Adler Memorial Park and Old School Forest Preserve offer amenities such as picnic areas. Along the broader Des Plaines River Trail, restrooms and water fountains are frequently available, though it's always a good idea to carry your own water, especially on longer hikes.