The best walks and hikes around Highland Park
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7
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Hiking around Highland Park features a landscape characterized by gentle elevations and a focus on natural preserves and lake-side environments. The area offers accessible trails, often winding through gardens, scrub, and along lake shores. Elevations are generally low, providing a mostly flat hiking experience suitable for various activity levels.
Best hiking trails around Highland Park
- The most popular hiking route is Bok Tower Gardens Preserve Trail, a 2.2 miles (3.5 km) trail that takes 53 minutes to complete. This…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
3.49km
00:53
10m
20m
Embark on an easy hike through the Bok Tower Gardens Preserve Trail, a 2.2-mile (3.5 km) route that takes about 53 minutes to complete. You will experience a gentle ascent…
3.88km
00:59
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike around the scenic Lake Wailes Trail, a paved path that offers a refreshing outdoor experience. This route spans 2.4 miles (3.9 km) with a gentle…
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2.52km
00:39
10m
10m
Embark on an easy hike through the serene landscapes of Bok Tower Gardens on the Bok Tower Loop. This gentle route spans 1.6 miles (2.5 km) with a minimal elevation…
4.58km
01:09
0m
0m
This easy 2.8-mile loop in Crooked Lake Prairie offers unique Florida scrub scenery and views of Crooked Lake.
4
hikers
5.92km
01:32
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Crooked Lake Prairie spans 525 acres across the shores of Crooked Lake. It's the second largest lake in Polk County and managed by Polk County Environmental Lands.
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Crooked Lake is registered as an Outstanding Florida Water and is one of the largest lakes in Polk County, at nearly 4,200 acres. The lake is popular with anglers, hikers, and birdwatchers. A number of parks and boat ramps are located around the lake and provide the public with access to the water.
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Lake Wailes Park offers picturesque vistas of Lake Wailes and Bok Tower. A 2.3-mile, 12-foot-wide paved trail loops around half of the lake, providing scenic waterfront views. This area is home to several rare and endangered plants, along with a diverse array of wildlife.
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Lake Wailes Park offers picturesque vistas of Lake Wailes and Bok Tower. A 2.3-mile, 12-foot-wide paved trail loops around half of the lake, providing scenic waterfront views. This area is home to several rare and endangered plants, along with a diverse array of wildlife.
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This area represents Edward Bok's generous gift to America upon his retirement. Boasting the second-highest elevation in Florida, it showcases Bok Tower, a lofty Carillon tower constructed in 1921. While the gardens themselves prohibit bikes, requiring riders to dismount for entry, it remains an exceptional destination for cyclists to journey to and admire the stunning surroundings.
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The Bok Tower, a tall Carillon-tower was built in 1921 by Edward W. Bok, editor of the magazine The Ladies Home Journal, along with the surrounding gardens as a bird sanctuary on Floridas highest point to protect the land from being developed. Today, Bok Tower Gardens is a popular spot for recreation and to visit the museum and the beautiful vegetation.
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The Outdoor Kitchen and Discovery Center within Bok Tower Gardens is a unique place to enjoy edible gardening in a beautiful landscape. The kitchen alone is 6,400 square feet and offers top of the line kitchen appliances.
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Enjoy a tour through the Visitor Center which includes exhibits on the life of Edward Bok and the Carillon before or after a stroll through the gardens itself. The Visitor Center is open Monday through Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Highland Park?
Highland Park offers a selection of 7 easy hiking routes, perfect for exploring the diverse natural beauty of the area. These trails provide opportunities to experience the region's unique landscapes, from lakefront bluffs to wooded ravines.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Highland Park?
Highland Park's trails feature diverse terrain, including paths along a 100-foot bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, through deep wooded ravines, and across restored woodlands and native gardens. Elevations range from 580 to 725 feet above sea level, offering varied landscapes for exploration.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Highland Park?
Yes, Highland Park is excellent for families. The Bok Tower Loop is an easy option. Additionally, the Heller Nature Center features a "Wander Woods" nature play space and crushed stone paths that are wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for all ages and abilities.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to see while hiking?
Hikers can explore several unique natural features. The Preserve of Highland Park offers restored woodlands and native gardens. You can also find stunning views of Lake Michigan at Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve and Moraine Park, which also showcases unique geological formations. Don't miss the cool-water ravines along the Lake Michigan shore. For specific points of interest, consider visiting Bok Tower Gardens or Lake Wailes Park.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Highland Park?
Yes, several circular routes are available. The Bok Tower Loop is a great example of a shorter, easy circular hike. For a slightly longer option, consider the Lakeview and Scrub Trail Loop.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Highland Park?
Highland Park offers enjoyable hiking year-round. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer is ideal for enjoying the lakefront paths and beaches. Even in winter, the serene, snow-dusted landscapes of the woodlands and ravines offer a unique hiking experience.
Are there any dog-friendly trails in Highland Park?
Many trails in Highland Park are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations before heading out. Generally, dogs are welcome on leash in most forest preserves and natural areas, allowing you and your canine companion to enjoy the outdoors together.
What are the typical trail difficulties in Highland Park?
All 7 of the hiking routes listed in this guide are classified as easy. This makes Highland Park an accessible destination for hikers of all experience levels, including families and those looking for a relaxed stroll through nature.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Highland Park?
Parking is generally available at the entrances to major natural areas and forest preserves like The Preserve of Highland Park, Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve, and Heller Nature Center. Specific parking details can often be found on individual trail pages or local park district websites.
Can I access Highland Park trails using public transport?
Highland Park has connections to regional trail networks, and some areas are accessible via public transport. For instance, the city's trails connect to downtown Highland Park, which is served by Metra. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules and routes for direct access to specific trailheads.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Highland Park?
Hikers frequently praise Highland Park for its diverse natural beauty, including stunning Lake Michigan views, peaceful wooded ravines, and well-maintained trails. The variety of landscapes, from open prairies to dense forests, offers a refreshing experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
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