Once the sun starts to set earlier and the air gets cooler, you know what happens next: Chicagoland trees start to put on their annual show.
Some bright crimson here, some burnt orange there, with swaths of golden yellow in between…. And suddenly, suburban Cook County’s over 70,000 acres of nature looks even more amazing.
So you can be ready, we’ve pulled together 10 of the best places to see fall colors near Chicago. And no, it doesn’t matter if you take a leisurely stroll or an ambitious hike, hop on a bike or just find a bench to sit on. Just get out there and enjoy it. It only comes once a year.
North
Harms Woods
This popular forest preserve is known for its towering trees, abundant wildlife and the North Branch of the Chicago River. Several different species of oaks can be found here. For optimal fall foliage, start in the Harms Woods north lot and connect with the North Branch Trail System, which offers over 20 miles of paved and unpaved paths.
Green Bay Trail
Sure, this aptly named tree-lined trail will surround you in green in spring and summer. But green gives way to the full spectrum of fall colors this time of year. And though you’ll be surrounded by nature, the trail runs adjacent to the downtowns of several North Shore towns, making it easy to make a small detour for coffee or a bite to eat.
Northwest
Busse Woods
When many of the trees are over 300 years old (experts say they predate the area’s European settlers), it’s a good sign they’ll make a spectacular autumn vista. Especially since there’s a wide variety – from red oaks, hickories and maples to ashes, elms and ironwoods. You can’t go wrong at this 3,558-acre preserve, but here’s a recommendation: Park at the Busse Forest Elk Pasture and take the red paved trail to Busse Central.
Spring Valley Nature Center
Wide open fields, forests, marshes and streams welcome you at Spring Valley Nature Center. You can meander along the three miles of handicapped-accessible hiking trails that pass a pond, arboretum, historic cabin, heritage farm and children’s play area. An onsite nature center offers different exhibits throughout the year.
Deer Grove
Cook County’s first forest preserve offers 2,000 acres of diverse landscape. If you’re looking for an advanced hike, the yellow unpaved loop at Deer Grove West won’t disappoint. This hilly 5.4 mile trail will take you through scenic rolling woodlands, over bridges, and near deep ravines. If you’re feeling invigorated by what you see, extend your journey by taking the tan unpaved trail into Deer Grove East.
West
Thatcher Woods
Nestled along the Des Plaines River, Thatcher Woods offers a network of primitive trails – perfect for navigating crunchy leaves in fall. Keep your eye out for one of at least 45 different bird species who make their home in this extensive forest habitat. The Trailside Museum of Natural History is also onsite.
Bemis Woods
This 400-acre wooded area along Salt Creek is excellent for fall foliage and spotting birds, especially migrant songbirds and woodpeckers. (You might hear one before you see it!) Fall migration season is an especially good time for this. Paved and unpaved trails connect to the Salt Creek Trail System, which runs along the Des Plaines River, Salt Creek and Brookfield Zoo.
Southwest
Spears Woods
Whether you’re looking for a quick nature walk or want to connect the extensive Palos Trail System, Spears Woods is a great choice. For optimal fall colors, take the black unpaved spur from the parking lot to the yellow unpaved east trail.
South
Iron Oaks Environmental Learning Center
The “Iron Oaks” name might say it best. This picturesque nature area offers a number of scenic trails that lead to a pond, observation deck, meadow, stream, nature play area and discovery center. Fun fact: Iron oaks or post oaks don’t typically drop their leaves in autumn. Leaves turn yellow or brown but hang on until new shoots push them away in spring.
Sand Ridge Nature Preserve
Designated as one of the highest quality natural areas in the state, Sand Ridge is a must-see. A network of four unpaved trails takes you through woodlands, wetlands and prairies. A nature center offers a wide variety of displays and knowledgeable staff. Camping and fishing are just a short walk away at Camp Shabbona Woods and Green Lake.
Want more ideas in the Forest Preserves of Cook County, or find out what else you can do nearby? Enter “Fall Colors” in this searchable map.
Our thanks to Kris DaPra, amateur photographer and FPCC manager of volunteer resources, for sharing some of her recommendations in the Forest Preserves of Cook County.