The best walks and hikes around New Chicago

Yes, the trails in this region are exceptionally well-suited for beginners and families. Most routes, especially within Indiana Dunes National Park, are generally flat with minimal elevation gain. A great example is the Dunes Succession Trail – Dune Trail loop, which is a short and easy walk perfect for all ages.

Many parks and forest preserves in the greater Chicago area are dog-friendly, but rules can vary. For instance, Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is a popular spot for walking with pets. However, within Indiana Dunes National Park, pets are generally permitted on trails but must be on a leash, and they are not allowed on the West Beach Swim Area. Always check the specific park's regulations before you go.

The immediate area around the southern tip of Lake Michigan is characterized by gentle, flat terrain, so you won't find strenuous mountain climbs. The challenge here comes from the terrain itself, such as walking on sandy dunes. For more rugged trails with significant elevation changes and canyons, you'll need to travel a bit further out to places like the highly-regarded Starved Rock State Park.

While the immediate lakeside trails don't feature major waterfalls, you can find them in the region. Starved Rock State Park, about an hour and a half from Chicago, is famous for its seasonal waterfalls found within its beautiful canyons. A closer option is Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve, which, as the name suggests, features a small, scenic waterfall and is a local favorite for a pleasant walk.

You can hike year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most pleasant experience with comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings wildflowers and flowing waterfalls, especially at Starved Rock. Autumn provides stunning fall foliage. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for heat and humidity, and winter hiking can be beautiful, especially in the snow, though trails can be icy.

For most trails, comfortable walking shoes are sufficient. Always bring water, especially in the summer. Sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent are essential due to the open and sometimes marshy environments. It's also wise to pack a light rain jacket as the weather near Lake Michigan can change quickly.

Yes, the area is excellent for bird watching, particularly within Indiana Dunes National Park. The diverse habitats of dunes, wetlands, and woodlands attract a wide variety of migratory and resident birds. The Middle Grand Calumet Lagoon – Lake Street Beach loop takes you through some of these rich environments, offering great opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Most of the major hiking areas, like Indiana Dunes National Park and Starved Rock State Park, are best accessed by car. They have designated parking lots near the main trailheads. Some forest preserves closer to the city may be accessible via a combination of public transport and walking, but a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the region's trails.

Yes, many of the most popular trails are loops, which makes for convenient hiking. The trails within Indiana Dunes National Park are often designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same parking area without retracing your steps. The Tolleston Dunes Trail loop is a perfect example of a pleasant circular route through wooded dunes.

The hiking routes in the region are well-regarded by the komoot community, earning an average score of over 4 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique landscape of the dunes, the peaceful woodland sections, and the easy accessibility of the trails for a quick escape from the city.

While the area is known more for its shorter loops, you can connect various paths to create longer walks. For a dedicated long-distance urban trail experience, The 606 (also known as the Bloomingdale Trail) is a popular 2.7-mile elevated path built on a former rail line, perfect for a long, uninterrupted walk or run through the city.