DuPage River Trail and Whalon Lake Loop

You can find parking at Whalon Lake Preserve, which serves as a convenient access point for this loop. The preserve is located near Bolingbrook and Naperville, Illinois.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Whalon Lake Preserve also features an 11.9-acre fenced off-leash dog park, making it a great spot for your canine companions.

The trail is enjoyable year-round. It's suitable for activities like hiking, running, and biking in warmer months, and cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in winter. Wildlife viewing, especially waterfowl, is excellent throughout the year.

The DuPage River Trail and Whalon Lake Loop is part of the Forest Preserve District of Will County. Generally, there are no entrance fees for the preserves, but it's always a good idea to check the official Forest Preserve District of Will County website for any specific regulations or permit requirements for certain activities or facilities.

The trail around Whalon Lake is predominantly flat and paved, making it an easy route. While some parts of the broader DuPage River Trail can be hilly, this specific loop has minimal elevation gain. There is also a non-paved trail exclusively for hikers that branches off the main loop to the west if you prefer a natural surface.

You'll experience diverse scenery including prairie, wetlands, and the beautiful 80-acre Whalon Lake Park. The area is rich in wildlife, especially various species of waterfowl, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching. You'll also get views of a portion of the DuPage River and can spot native plants like red mulberry and wild leek.

This is a highly notable multi-use trail. Besides hiking, it's popular for running, biking, in-line skating, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, catering to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.

Yes, this loop is an integral part of the larger DuPage River preservation system. It connects to other segments of the DuPage River Trail and also offers connections to the Tall Grass Greenway Trail and the Greene Valley Forest Preserve, allowing for longer adventures.

Beyond the trail, Whalon Lake Preserve offers several amenities. You'll find picnic areas, access for fishing, and opportunities for boating and kayaking on the lake. There's also an 11.9-acre fenced off-leash dog park.

Whalon Lake has a unique history; it was once a quarry before being transformed into the public lake and preserve you see today. This transformation highlights the area's commitment to conservation and public recreation.

Absolutely! With its predominantly flat and paved sections, diverse scenery, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, this trail is considered easy and very suitable for families with children.