Easy hikes and walks around Arlington Heights
4.6
(44)
461
hikers
57
hikes
If you've ever tried to plan hiking around Arlington Heights, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many parks and preserves, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and which are just filler. You want to hit the trails that offer the best experience, not waste precious hours on a mediocre walk.
That's where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, walked, and reviewed countless routes in the area, so we've done the legwork for you. This guide is a curated shortlist of the easy hikes that are truly worth your legs, saving you the guesswork and getting you straight to the good stuff.
Hiking around Arlington Heights is all about embracing its unique blend of extensive forest preserves, restored prairies, and serene wetlands. You'll find a landscape defined by flatwoods and upland forests, often circling picturesque lakes and reservoirs, with many paths winding alongside waterways like the Des Plaines River. The terrain is generally gentle, making it perfect for easy strolls and longer, relaxed walks. While there isn't a specific "best season" that dictates access, the well-maintained paths mean you can enjoy these trails year-round.
If you only do one, make it the Red Paved Loop. This 3.6 miles (5.8 km) trail through the Busse Forest Nature Preserve offers continuous walks with lovely lake views – it's a local favorite for a reason. For a different feel, the Buffalo Creek Reservoir – Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve loop, at 3.2 miles (5.2 km), is another top pick, meandering through open prairie landscapes. With more than 400 hikers having explored these paths and an average rating of 4.6 stars, you can trust you're in for a great time. So lace up your boots and start exploring with komoot!
Last updated: June 2, 2026
1
hikers
4.64km
01:11
10m
10m
The Black Paved Trail offers a serene escape into nature, characterized by its smooth, accessible surface winding through lush woodlands and alongside tranquil riverbanks. You'll experience a journey through diverse ecosystems, with towering trees providing shade and the chance to spot vibrant wildflowers or even waterfowl near lagoons. The route is consistently flat, making it a pleasant and easy experience for all.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as these trails are typically well-maintained with amenities like parking and restrooms often available at trailheads. Given its gentle nature, the trail is suitable for most hikers, including families, and is particularly enjoyable during the spring and fall months when the scenery is at its best. Expect to spend about 1 hour and 10 minutes covering the 2.9 miles (4.6 km) with a minimal 35 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain.
These paved trails are a testament to accessibility and versatility, often connecting various parks and communities within larger forest preserve systems like those in Cook County, Illinois. Their design allows for multiple activities beyond hiking, such as jogging or cycling, making them a popular choice for local recreation. The ease of use and natural beauty make it a standout option for a quick, refreshing outdoor adventure.
4.8
(4)
26
hikers
3.16km
00:48
10m
10m
The Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve Trail offers a refreshing escape into nature, winding through beautifully restored prairie and serene wetlands. You'll enjoy open vistas and tree-lined sections, with the Buffalo Creek Reservoir often in view, making for a pleasant and varied experience. The crushed-gravel paths are wide and generally flat, providing an easy 2.0-mile (3.2 km) hike with only 34 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 48 minutes.
This easy route is highly accessible and suitable for most, including families and those new to hiking. The multi-use trails are well-maintained, accommodating hikers, bikers, and even cross-country skiers in season. It's a great option for a quick outdoor activity, offering a peaceful natural setting despite its suburban location.
The preserve is a testament to successful ecological restoration, transforming former invasive species areas into thriving habitats for wildlife. It's a prime spot for birdwatching, with opportunities to see waterfowl and various prairie birds. The large reservoir also plays a vital role in flood control, adding to the area's natural beauty and ecological significance.
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5.78km
01:28
10m
10m
If you're looking for a straightforward and scenic outdoor escape, the Red Paved Loop delivers a pleasant experience. This easy 3.6-mile (5.8 km) hike, with only 46 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through a mix of forests, prairies, and wetlands. You'll enjoy views of the Lake in Busse Forest Nature Preserve and might even spot some local wildlife, making it a great option for a quick 1 hour and 28 minute outing.
Planning your visit is simple, as the Red Paved Loop is designed for multi-use and is accessible year-round. Its paved surface means it's suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, and leashed dogs are welcome. While specific parking details vary by location within the larger Red Paved Loop trail system, these trails are generally well-serviced, so you can usually find a spot to start your adventure.
These Red Paved Loop trails are a hallmark of Cook County, Illinois, providing a consistent and reliable outdoor experience. They are known for their accessibility and diverse ecosystems, offering a chance to see everything from ancient trees to heron rookeries. Many loops connect to larger networks, giving you the option to extend your hike if you're feeling more ambitious.
5.0
(1)
38
hikers
3.72km
00:57
10m
10m
The Lake Arlington loop offers a wonderfully accessible and scenic escape, perfect for a relaxed outing. This easy 2.3-mile (3.7 km) hike takes you around the picturesque 50-acre man-made lake, with a minimal 30 feet (9 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for all ages and abilities. You'll enjoy continuous views of the water, passing by park amenities like playgrounds and a fishing pier, all on a smooth, paved asphalt surface.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is well-equipped with public restrooms and benches for breaks. The route is family-friendly and dog-friendly, with separate lanes for walking and biking to ensure everyone's safety. Parking is convenient at the park, and the trail is enjoyable throughout the year, though spring and fall offer particularly pleasant conditions.
Renovated in 2018, this loop is notable for its continuous paved path and connection to other trails like the Prospect Heights Bike Path, allowing for longer excursions if you wish. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like rabbits and various birds while you stroll. It's an excellent choice for easy hiking trails near Wheeling Township, providing a peaceful natural setting within an urban area.
23
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve opens up to 408 acres with 5.5 miles of gravel trails open to walking, biking, and cross-country skiing along restored prairies, wetlands, and alongside the Buffalo Creek Reservoir.
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This enormous, 3,700-acre swath of forestland sits on the edge of Chicago's suburbs. It contains more than a dozen miles of trails, extensive waterways, an elk pasture, and some truly ancient trees.
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Nice bridge over Salt Creek on the Busse Forest Red Paved Trail. At this point, Salt Creek is fairly wide and passes through wetlands.
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The Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve offers a mix of paved and dirt trails. There's nothing too challenging here so bring the hardtail and a friend who is looking to get started mountain biking.
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Take a breather at Buffalo Creek Reservoir during your ride. Originally built for flood control, this spot captivates cyclists with its wetland allure. Explore the winding trails encircling the 34-acre lake, offering glimpses of native flora and fauna thriving in this aquatic environment.
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Lake Arlington is a 50-acre man-made lake within a 93-acre park. The park amenities include an exercise area, two playgrounds, a fishing pier, a cycling/walking path, a picnic area, and restrooms.
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Though created for flood control, Buffalo Creek Reservoir enchants hikers with wetland beauty. Meandering trails surround the 34-acre lake, inviting observation of native plants, birds, and other wildlife drawn to the watery habitat.
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East Higgins Road divides Busse Forest into a northern section offering a rugby field and elk pasture and the lake-dominated southern section.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are there in Arlington Heights?
Arlington Heights offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 45 routes specifically categorized as easy. These trails traverse diverse landscapes, including forest preserves, restored prairies, and wetlands.
Are there any easy paved trails in Arlington Heights?
Yes, several easy paved trails are available. A notable option is the Red Paved Loop in Busse Forest Nature Preserve, which is 3.6 miles (5.8 km) long and offers continuous walks with lake views. Another is the Black Paved Trail, also in Busse Woods, which is 2.9 miles (4.6 km) and primarily paved.
Are the easy hiking trails in Arlington Heights suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. The easy trails in Arlington Heights are generally flat and well-maintained, making them ideal for families. Many paths wind through scenic forest preserves and around lakes, offering engaging environments for children. The Lake Arlington loop, for instance, is a 2.6-mile (4.3 km) trail through a local park, perfect for a family outing.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails?
Many forest preserves and parks in the Arlington Heights area are dog-friendly, but leash laws and specific regulations apply. It's always best to check the local rules for each preserve, such as Busse Forest Nature Preserve or Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve, before heading out with your pet.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on these trails?
The diverse ecosystems around Arlington Heights, including flatwoods, prairies, and wetlands, support a variety of wildlife. Hikers often spot various bird species, especially in areas like Crabtree Nature Center, which is a known hotspot for migratory birds. The Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods) is also home to a 17-acre enclosed elk pasture, where a herd of elk has resided since 1925.
Are there any loop hikes among the easy trails?
Yes, loop hikes are a popular feature of the easy trails in Arlington Heights. Examples include the Red Paved Loop in Busse Forest Nature Preserve and the Buffalo Creek Reservoir – Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve loop, which meanders around the reservoir and through open prairie landscapes.
What are some shorter easy hikes for a quick outing?
For a quick and easy outing, consider the Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve Trail, which is about 2 miles (3.2 km) long. Another great option is the Lake Arlington loop, a 2.6-mile (4.3 km) trail that can typically be completed in just over an hour.
Where can I park when visiting these easy hiking trails?
Most major forest preserves and parks in the Arlington Heights area, such as Busse Forest Nature Preserve, Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve, and Lake Arlington Park, offer dedicated parking facilities for visitors. These are generally well-marked and easily accessible.
Is it possible to reach the easy hiking trails using public transport?
While some areas might have limited public transport access, many of the larger preserves like Busse Forest Nature Preserve are more easily reached by car. For specific public transport options to locations like Lake Arlington or Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve, it's recommended to check local transit schedules and routes, as direct access can vary.
What are the best times of year to hike the easy trails in Arlington Heights?
Arlington Heights experiences a mild climate, making it conducive for year-round hiking. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with blooming wildflowers or vibrant autumn leaves. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer, while winter hikes can be enjoyed on cleared paths, offering a different, serene perspective of the landscape.
What do other hikers say about the easy trails in Arlington Heights?
The easy trails around Arlington Heights are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths, the scenic views of lakes and prairies, and the peaceful atmosphere found within the forest preserves.
Are there any interesting natural features or landmarks to see along the easy trails?
Yes, the trails offer access to several natural features and landmarks. You can explore the extensive Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods), enjoy views of Busse Lake — North and Main Pools, or cross the Des Plaines River bridge. Many trails also wind through restored prairies and wetlands, offering opportunities to observe diverse flora.
Are there any easy trails that go around lakes or reservoirs?
Yes, many easy trails in the area feature picturesque lakes and reservoirs. The Lake Arlington loop circles Lake Arlington, and the Buffalo Creek Reservoir loop offers scenic views around the reservoir. The Busse Forest Nature Preserve also has trails that provide continuous walks with views of Busse Lake.
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