Best Family-Friendly Nature Walks Around Chicago

Sarah D.:  Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore has 14 trail systems offering incredible views of Lake Michigan and the Indiana Dunes. The vast network features varying levels of difficulty from easy to rugged. Upparent recommends the Calument Dunes Trail System for its accessibility - a paved, .5 mile trail with easy access to parking and benches along the way.

Sarah D.:  The trails at Sand Ridge Nature Center offer paved and upaved paths that traverse Illinois prairies, oak savannas, woodlands, sand dunes, and wetlands. With easy access to the trails from the Nature Center parking lot, this hiking adventure will be easy for kids of all ages. The Nature Center itself offers wildlife educational exhibits and cultural history exhibits on the Calumet area. Check out the Center's upcoming events to make the most of your family's hike!

Sarah D.:  The Thorn Creek Trail at Sauk Trail Woods is 3.5 miles of paved paths forming a loop around the Sauk Trail Lake. The forest preserve is set along the Great Sauk Trail, known to locals as a 400-mile American Indian thoroughfare stretching along southern cook county. With plenty of parking for easy access to the trail, as well as picnic areas around the route, this southernmost stretch of the Thorn Creek Trail is an easy trek for families.

Sarah D.:  The trails at Jackson Park offer paved paths through 5 natural habitats across woodlands, prairie, savanna, lagoon, and dunes. These multipurpose trails traverse Wooded Island and offer stunning views of the Jackson Park Lagoon, Lake Michigan, and wildlife of the park. Jackson Park is renowned for the presence of migratory birds and links up to Chicago's famous Lakefront Trail. While you're there, be sure to stop by the Museum of Science and Industry, which offers free admission on select days throughout the year.

Sarah D.:  Daniel Burnham is an historic Chicago architect, made famous for convincing the city to preserve the lake front for the people. The Burnham Wildlife Corridor is aptly named as a tribute to Burnham for his foresight. The Corridor (an expanse located at Burnham Park and connecting to the Lakefront Trail ) stretches through a 100-acre area of urban wilderness home to migratory birds and other wildlife. The Corridor is also home to spaces to be cultivated by teams of local artists and community-based organizations from the Chinatown, Bronzeville, and Pilsen neighborhoods.

Sarah D.:  Northerly Island trails are an extension of the museum campus and Chicago's famous Lakefront Trail. These paved, pristine trails traverse a hilly, lakefront expanse of Illinois prairie and savanna that form a peninsula out into Lake Michigan. Renowned for the presence of migratory birds, Northerly Island is a sanctuary along the shoreline of a bustling city. With easy access via an on-site lot, this sanctuary is the perfect place to spend time in nature.

Sarah D.:  The Chicago Riverwalk is a world-class tour through Chicago's famous "Loop" along the Chicago River. This paved pathway is frequented by walkers and boaters from all over the world. The stretch of riverfront extends from the lake inland below street level but with access points for strollers and wheelchairs. The Riverwalk is a great place to walk, eat, and play! This is a must-see for family-friendly outdoor walking fun!

Sarah D.:  The Nature Boardwalk at the Lincoln Park Zoo is an oasis in the concrete jungle. This beautiful expanse in Lincoln Park stretches through Illinois prairie and wetland ecosystems with half a mile of boardwalk. The trail can be found at the southernmost end of the Lincoln Park Zoo and provides an educational experience for visitors including seasonal presentations. This trail provides access to the famous Chicago Lakefront Trail and North Avenue Beach.

Sarah D.:  Wolfe Wildlife Refuge offers paved paths through natural wetlands rife with wildlife. Many animals, including endangered species, can be found within the refuge. With a playground, a tot lot, picnic areas and outdoor sports (volleyball, basketball), the refuge is the perfect place to while away the day in nature with all the members of your family!

Sarah D.:  This incredible park district space sits on 9.1 acres of land and houses a beautifully paved path that winds through amenities designed specifically for children! The path offers pond fishing, benches and scenic vistas, along with restrooms and ample free parking. And when your little ones tire from the nature walk, bring them to the rocket-themed park or the space-themed splash pad at the Memorial Park Children's Pool.

Sarah Calamita:  The 606 is Chicagos's form of NYC's High Line. It's in a fun, trendy neighborhood with lots of stores and restaurants. Take the blue line to Damen (or hop in a cab) and get on the 606 at Damen Ave. A really great walk, bike, scooter in a fun green space!

Sarah D.:  The trails at West Ridge Nature Preserve offer paved, easy strolls through a green oasis right in Chicago. But, these trails get an Upparent nod for the number of family friendly events and activities that make an ordinary walk in nature, an extraordinary day outside for the whole family! With opportunities for children to learn about the environment and wildlife, West Ridge Nature Preserve is an outstanding place to take the family for a nature hike!

Sarah D.:  Indian Boundary Park offers the perfect day in nature for your urban family! The Park itself is an award-winning Chicago historical landmark which features paths for strolling through a community garden, a playground, a splash pad and the renowned Indian Boundary Nature Play Space - a half acre outdoor space where children engage interactive, hand-on exploration of the natural world. Enjoy one of Chicago's finest parks with a hike, followed by interactive child-friendly enjoyment all around!

Sarah D.:  The trail system at Kankakee River State Park wanders along a 3-mile stretch of the Rock Creek. The trail is flat and well-maintained, though not paved. The trail leads hikers through limestone canyons, a waterfall and out over a walking bridge. With picnic shelters, restrooms and drinking water, the hike offers amenities that make it an easy day for families. (Biking and horseback riding trails can also be found along the Kankakee River.)

Sarah D.:  The trails at North Park Village Nature Center offer a shaded escape through woodlands, wetlands, and Illinois prairie. The Nature Center includes 46 acres of diverse habitat for children to explore. The paths are well-maintained, though not paved - so accessibility for strollers or wheelchairs may be difficult in some areas. After a walk, enjoy the Nature Center - a place of discovery with hand-on, interactive learning displays! The Nature Center also offers public programs for children of all ages including a summer camp and outreach programs!