The best walks and hikes around Franklin Park
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Hiking around Franklin Park offers access to a network of trails primarily characterized by wooded areas, river paths, and forest preserves. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for various activity levels. The region features several natural spaces, including sections of the Des Plaines River Trail and various forest preserves, providing opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Best hiking trails around Franklin Park
- The most popular hiking route is Catherine Chevalier Woods River Loop, a 3.0 miles (4.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 14 minutes to complete. This easy route follows a river trail through wooded sections.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Des Plaines River Trail Loop, an easy 3.3 miles (5.3 km) path. This loop trail offers views along the river.
- Local hikers also love the Trailside Museum of Natural History Blue Primitive Trail, a 0.7 miles (1.2 km) trail leading through a natural area, often completed in about 18 minutes.
- Hiking around Franklin Park is defined by wooded areas, river trails, and forest preserves. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to moderate paths through natural landscapes.
- The routes in Franklin Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.25 stars from 7 reviews. More than 89 hikers have used komoot to explore Franklin Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
10
hikers
4.91km
01:15
10m
10m
The Catherine Chevalier Woods River Loop offers an easy hiking experience, winding through lush oak and hickory woodlands. You will enjoy picturesque views of the Des Plaines River as the trail follows its banks. This pleasant route covers 3.1 miles (4.9 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 32 feet (10 metres), making it accessible for most. Expect to spend around 1 hour and 14 minutes exploring the peaceful floodplain forests. Keep an eye out for native wildflowers like wood anemone and spring beauties during spring months.
Planning your visit to Catherine Chevalier Woods is straightforward, as the loop is easily accessible for a quick outdoor escape. You will find convenient parking lots available near the trailhead. The area is also well-connected to an extensive network of bike paths, offering alternative ways to reach the starting point. This makes it a great option for a spontaneous hike without much prior preparation. Consider visiting in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer people on the trail.
Beyond the natural beauty, the woods hold a piece of local history. As you hike, you might notice the historic Indian cemetery, which serves as the resting place of Chief Alexander Robinson. This adds a unique cultural dimension to your outdoor adventure. The trail's location near Chicago makes it a valuable green space for urban dwellers seeking a connection with nature and history.
4
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2.69km
00:41
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The Stonewort Pond, Green Lake and Riverbend Pond Loop offers a peaceful hiking experience through a shaded, wooded environment. This easy route spans 1.7 miles (2.7 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 13 feet (4 metres), making it ideal for a relaxed outing. You can expect to complete the loop in about 40 minutes, enjoying the serene atmosphere. The trail connects several picturesque water bodies, including Stonewort Pond and Green Lake, providing tranquil spots for reflection. As you hike, you will encounter varied terrain typical of paths that link multiple ponds, adding gentle interest to your walk.
Planning your visit to this accessible loop is straightforward. You will find parking conveniently located near the trailhead within the Cricket Creek County Forest Preserve. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned, so you can likely enjoy this trail without special arrangements. This makes it a great choice for a spontaneous outdoor escape, perfect for a casual outing any day.
This route is nestled within the Cricket Creek County Forest Preserve, offering a refreshing escape into nature. The trail's design, linking multiple ponds, creates a unique waterside experience, perfect for quiet observation. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you pass by the water bodies. It is a prime example of how a short, easy hike can still offer a rich and varied natural setting.
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5.31km
01:21
10m
10m
The Des Plaines River Trail Loop provides an easy hiking experience, guiding you through a scenic mix of lush woodlands, open prairies, and diverse wetlands. As you follow the river's course, you will encounter a variety of natural settings perfect for a refreshing outdoor escape. This accessible route covers 3.3 miles (5.3 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 40 feet (12 metres), and you can comfortably complete it in about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Planning your visit is simple, as numerous parking options are available at various access points along the Des Plaines River Trail system. It is always a good idea to check local conditions before you go, particularly after heavy rains, as some parts of the trail can become muddy or even flood. Bringing waterproof hiking boots is a sensible precaution to ensure your comfort on the path.
This trail is particularly notable for its rich opportunities to observe local wildlife, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer and red foxes, and listen for the calls of various bird species, including the majestic great blue herons. The diverse ecosystem along the river provides a vibrant habitat for these creatures, adding an extra layer of discovery to your hike.
1.19km
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This easy 0.7-mile hike on the Trailside Museum of Natural History Blue Primitive Trail winds through diverse habitats in Thatcher Woods, co
3.10km
00:47
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Hike the easy 1.9-mile Illinois Prairie Path - Main Stem, featuring urban landscapes, tree-lined sections, and historic rail-trail charm.
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Tips from the Community
This is one of the many forest preserves along the Des Plaines River Trail. There are picnic tables, bathrooms and parking for trail access here. You can enjoy some great views of the river from here as well.
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This small lake has a path encircling it and is easily accessed via Fullerton Avenue. It connected to other lakes and nature preserves via the Salt Creek Greenway.
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Cricket Creek County Forest Preserve is a 208-acre nature preserve. The park is popular for boating, picnicking and fishing. There are also several miles of trails that are great for walking.
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Green Lake is a beautiful lake in Cricket Creek County Forest Preserve. There is a trail that runs along the perimeter of the water, so you get great views of the lake.
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Robinson Woods North is a predominantly wooded haven adorned with scattered prairies. Explore remnant prairie spots along the route and look for the white wild indigo, nodding onion, goldenrod, and blazing star plants that create a haven for monarchs and other butterflies.
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A well maintained flat path circles Green Lake in the Cricket Creek County Forest Preserve. Keep an eye out for turtles, deer and even huge fish in the water.
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This area offers a nice unpaved trail that follows along the Des Plaines River, providing enjoyable views and sounds as you ride. The park is named after Alexander Robinson, the English name of Potawatomi chief Chee-chee-pin-quay, born in 1787.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Franklin Park?
There are over 20 hiking routes around Franklin Park, offering a variety of experiences. Most of these, about 15, are considered easy, while 6 are moderate, ensuring options for different skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the hiking trails in Franklin Park?
The hiking trails around Franklin Park are primarily characterized by wooded areas, river paths, and forest preserves. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for a wide range of hikers. You'll find paths winding through natural landscapes, often following river courses like the Des Plaines River Trail.
Are there any easy, circular walks in the area?
Yes, for an easy circular walk, consider the Thatcher Glen Pond Loop — Thatcher Woods. This 3.6-mile path winds around a tranquil pond, offering a pleasant and accessible experience.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Franklin Park?
The trails around Franklin Park are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful wooded sections and the accessible river trails, which provide a refreshing escape into nature without significant elevation challenges.
Are there any moderate hiking options for a bit more challenge?
Yes, for a moderate hike, you could explore the Salt Creek Park Forest Preserve — Wood Dale. This route covers approximately 5.1 miles (8.2 km) and offers a slightly more extended journey through a forest preserve. Another moderate option is Eisenhower Park via Illinois Prairie Path — Bellwood.
What natural features or attractions can I see along the hiking trails?
While hiking, you'll encounter various natural features such as dense woodlands and river views. Specific areas like Brookfield Woods and Caldwell Woods offer immersive forest experiences. You can also follow sections of the Robinson Woods North Trail Along Des Plaines River for scenic riverside paths.
Are there any trails that follow a river?
Absolutely. Many trails in the Franklin Park area incorporate river paths. A notable example is the Schiller Woods to Robinson Woods North via Des Plaines River Trail — Chicago, which follows the Des Plaines River through wooded sections.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Franklin Park?
Given the wooded and riverine nature of the trails, spring and autumn are generally ideal for hiking in Franklin Park. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming plants, while autumn offers vibrant fall foliage. Summer can be pleasant, but be mindful of warmer temperatures and potential insects. Winter hiking is possible, but trails may be covered in snow or ice.
Are there any forest preserves I can explore?
Yes, the region is rich with forest preserves. You can hike through areas like Cricket Creek County Forest Preserve via the Salt Creek Greenway, or explore Brookfield Woods and Caldwell Woods for a deeper immersion in nature.
Is there wildlife to observe while hiking?
While the specific wildlife varies by location, areas like Franklin Park in Columbus, Ohio, are known for attracting urban wildlife such as Great Blue Herons, American Bullfrogs, and Midland Painted Turtles, particularly around water features and wetland plants. In general, wooded areas and river paths provide habitats for various birds and small animals.
Are the trails suitable for families with children?
Many of the trails around Franklin Park are considered easy and have minimal elevation changes, making them suitable for families. The generally flat terrain and wooded paths offer a pleasant environment for children to explore. Look for shorter, easy loops like the Thatcher Glen Pond Loop for a family-friendly outing.
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