Forest trails in Joliet, Illinois

Located on Columbia Street in Joliet, Illinois, the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site is a 52-acre park and tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the area's industrial past. Acquired by the Des Plaines River preservation system between 1991 and 1997, this site was once home to an iron manufacturing facility in the late 1800s to early 1900s. Visitors can explore the preserved foundations of blast furnaces and other structures from the factory, as well as enjoy a 0.59-mile paved trail that provides a self-guided interpretive tour of the historical significance of the site. The Joliet Iron Works Historic Site also provides access to the 7.57-mile I&M Canal Trail, perfect for hiking and biking.

Welcome to Plum Grove Forest Preserve, a serene natural retreat located at 27064 South Dutton Road, Crete, Illinois. Nestled in the heart of Crete Township, this park offers a perfect escape into nature for families, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Discover the wonders of the Plum Creek Nature Center, situated within the preserve. Here, visitors can engage with the natural world through hands-on exhibits and interactive play elements designed to educate and inspire. Plan your visit using the visitor center's interactive map to ensure you make the most of your adventure.

Plum Creek Greenway Trail - Goodenow Road Access Discover the natural beauty of Crete, Illinois at the Plum Creek Greenway Trail, a captivating park and tourist attraction located at East Goodenow Road. This scenic trail is nestled within the lush landscapes of the Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve and the Plum Valley Preserve, offering a serene escape into nature.

Hammel Woods Recreation Area, located at 23601 West Black Road in Shorewood, Illinois, is a 445-acre park and tourist attraction that is part of the DuPage River preservation system. The preserve features forest and wetland habitats, and is home to a variety of wildlife and plant species. Visitors can enjoy 1.6 miles of natural surface trails, as well as a 3.77-mile paved segment of the DuPage River Trail for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. Additionally, there are opportunities for shoreline fishing, canoeing, and kayaking on the DuPage River. The park also offers a dog park, primitive campsites, and geocaching permits. With three access areas, Hammel Woods is a great destination for outdoor recreation and nature exploration in the Joliet area.

Theodore Marsh, located on Fox Meadow Drive in Crest Hill, Illinois, is a 292-acre park and tourist attraction with a variety of habitats including forest, prairie, wetland, and a portion of Rock Run. The preserve is home to a diverse range of plant species and is managed with invasive species control, prescribed burning, and habitat restoration. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, biking, and picnicking at the preserve, which also provides access to the Rock Run Greenway Trail and the Joliet Junction Trail. The preserve offers one picnic shelter for rental and permits for geocaching. Stay updated on news and upcoming programs by following the Theodore Marsh Facebook page. Plan your adventure at this beautiful natural area using the interactive map provided on the website.

Pilcher Park Nature Center is a serene oasis located at 2501 Highland Park Drive in Joliet, Illinois, United States. This beautiful park is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. The park features lush greenery, winding trails, and a variety of wildlife, making it the perfect place for nature lovers to unwind and connect with the great outdoors. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an educational experience, Pilcher Park Nature Center has something for everyone.

Rock Run Rookery Preserve is a beautiful park located at 23065 South Youngs Road in Joliet, Illinois. This 224-acre preserve offers a variety of habitats including forest, wetland, and two lakes. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, fishing, hiking, and canoeing/kayaking on the lakes. The preserve is home to a diverse range of plant and animal species, including the great blue heron and great egret. With a paved trail, picnic shelter, and boat launch, Rock Run Rookery is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Be sure to check out their Facebook page for updates on upcoming programs and events.

Rock Run Preserve - Black Road Access is a stunning park and tourist attraction located in Joliet, Illinois, United States. Covering 320 acres of land acquired between 1990 and 2009, this preserve is a haven for nature lovers. With diverse habitats including forest, prairie, wetland, and a portion of Rock Run, visitors can explore a variety of ecosystems and wildlife. The preserve is home to over 500 plant species and more than 100 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and botanists. Managed with invasive species control, prescribed burning, and habitat restoration, Rock Run Preserve is dedicated to protecting and enhancing its natural resources.

Located in Joliet, Illinois, the Lower Rock Run Preserve - I&M Canal Access is a 372-acre park and tourist attraction that offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. The preserve features diverse habitats such as forest, prairie, savanna, wetland, and a portion of Rock Run, providing a home for a variety of wildlife and plant species. Visitors can explore the preserve through its interactive map, which includes access to the Rock Run Greenway Trail and the I&M Canal State Trail. The Rock Run Greenway Trail is a paved 11.24-mile trail ideal for hiking, biking, and running, while the I&M Canal State Trail offers 61.5 miles of crushed limestone for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.

Welcome to Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, a serene escape nestled in Beecher, Illinois, at 27000 Dutton Road. As a cherished local park, Goodenow Grove offers a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts and families alike. Located conveniently north of Goodenow Road, our preserve is an ideal destination for picnics, hikes, and birdwatching. We offer two spacious shelters that can be reserved for your group gatherings. Whether you're planning a family reunion or a casual get-together, our shelters provide the perfect setting. For groups of 25 or more, a permit is required, ensuring exclusive use of the shelter for the entire day. Groups smaller than 25 can also choose to purchase a permit for guaranteed access. Please remember that reservations must be made at least two business days in advance, either in person or through our online system – phone reservations are not available.