Where to hike in Chicago

Where to hike in Chicago, There are many place to hike in and around Chicago. Trail access may change due to Covid restrictions, weather or any other reason. Please exercise caution when hiking. Do not go to any of these areas after dark.

Friendly Reminder: Always Confirm all details before heading out

Chicago On The Cheap does its best to verify every item published and strives for 100% accuracy. However, due to Covid hours and events change or are canceled, locations close, prices change without notice, errors may occur, etc.

To keep up with the latest news on deals, discounts and free events in Chicago, sign up for the daily Chicago on the Cheap newsletter. You can also follow us on Instagram, and Facebook.

Chicago Lakefront Trail

This trail runs along Lake Michigan beginning at Ardmore Ave. (5700N) on the north, to 71st St. (7100S) on the south. It is an 18-mile combined use trail with an 18-mile Bike Trail and 18.5-mile Pedestrian Trail. Due to high lake levels the trail is closed often particularly in winter. More info here.

Chicago Lakefront Trail

The 606

The Bloomingdale Trail is an elevated 2.7-mile-long former rail line converted into a biking, jogging and walking path. The Trail is part of a larger park system called The 606 which includes five ground-level parks that link up to the Bloomingdale Trail. Park map. Location: Bloomingdale Ave (1800 N) from Ashland Ave. (1600 W) to Ridgeway (3750 W). More info here.

The 606 Bloomingdale Trail

Where to hike in Chicago – The Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk is a 1.5 mile path along the Chicago River. The trail goes from Wacker Drive and Lake Street (200N) to the Lakefront Trail where the Chicago River and Lake Michigan converge. Bikes are allowed but must be walked. More info here.

Chicago Riverwalk

Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo/

This is a beautiful 2.5 mile walk between the Alfred Caldwell Lily Pond on the north past the Lincoln Park Conservatory, Lincoln Park Zoo and South Pond to the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum in Lincoln Park. The Lincoln Park Zoo is closed through March 4, 2021 you should be able to access all areas of this walk. More info here. Learn more about it here.

Lincoln Park Zoo Nature Walk

Northerly Island Park

Northerly Island is a 91- acre peninsula that juts into Lake Michigan at the Museum Campus. It is located just south of the Adler Planetarium and east of Soldier Field. The majority of this space is dedicated to nature. The nature area at Northerly Island features strolling paths, casual play areas and a spectacular view of the Chicago skyline. It is also home to some of the best fishing in Chicago. Located at 1521 S. Linn White Dr. More info here.

This park is closed in accordance with an executive order from Mayor Lightfoot. Go here to learn more about the Chicago Park District COVID-19 response.

Northerly Island Image from Chicago Park District website

Ping Tom Memorial Park

Ping Tom Memorial Park is a 17.44-acre site with walking paths by the river located in Chinatown at 1906 South Tom Parkway. More info here.

Ping Tom Memorial Park

North Park Village Nature Center

North Park Village Nature Center features a 46-acre nature preserve and educational facility. The nature preserve offers trails in woodland, wetland, prairie, and savanna. A discovery room, a hands-on table of natural objects, and interactive displays are highlights of the Nature Center. In addition to the Nature Center and preserve, visitors can also enjoy exploration through Walking Stick Woods, a 12-acre woodland with trails and nodes designed for Nature Play. Location: 5801 N. Pulaski Rd. More info here