The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Glenview
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Family friendly hiking trails around Glenview, Illinois, traverse a diverse landscape characterized by extensive woodlands, wetlands, and waterways. The region features numerous forest preserves, including Harms Woods and Watersmeet Woods, offering shaded paths. Significant waterways like the Skokie Lagoons, the North Branch of the Chicago River, and the Des Plaines River contribute to varied ecosystems and provide scenic riverside routes. While generally flat, the terrain includes a mix of paved and unpaved paths suitable for various skill levels.
Best familyβ¦
Last updated: May 11, 2026
3.71km
00:56
10m
10m
Hike the easy 2.3-mile North Branch Red Paved Trail through Cook County's forest preserves, following the Chicago River and spotting wildlif
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
4.04km
01:02
10m
10m
Hike the easy 2.5-mile North Branch Orange Trail in Harms Woods, enjoying quiet forests, meadows, and wildlife sightings.
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4
hikers
9.22km
02:19
10m
10m
Hike the 5.7-mile North Branch Yellow Unpaved Trail through Cook County's forest preserves, enjoying nature and views of Skokie Lagoon.
3
hikers
4.73km
01:12
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The west side of the preserve has a network of packed dirt walking paths, which cross over minor tributaries of the North Branch. You can walk right down to the bank of the river. This side of the park is a little quieter than the east preserve.
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Great trail to ride on. Watch out for people walking, it can get busy on a nice day.
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Hiking, running, and biking are popular activities in this area, with the well-known North Branch Trail running through and providing both paved and unpaved trails to enjoy. The North Branch of the Chicago River also flows through the area, offering scenic water views.
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If you are biking along the North Branch Red Paved Trail or the dirt horse trail that follows the Skokie River, you'll pass through a bunch of different parks and preserves. The Watersmeet Woods is one of those natural preserves that the trails pass through.
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Situated where the east and middle forks of the Chicago River merge, Watersmeet Woods earns its name from this distinctive convergence. The varied collection of trees, shrubs, sedges, grasses, and wildflowers within this natural haven thrives thanks to the continuous efforts of volunteers participating in the North Branch Restoration Project.
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Situated where the east and middle forks of the Chicago River merge, Watersmeet Woods earns its name from this distinctive convergence. The varied collection of trees, shrubs, sedges, grasses, and wildflowers within this natural haven thrives thanks to the continuous efforts of volunteers participating in the North Branch Restoration Project.
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Hiking, running, and biking are popular activities in this area, with the well-known North Branch Trail running through and providing both paved and unpaved trails to enjoy. The North Branch of the Chicago River also flows through the area, offering scenic water views.
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Hiking, running, and biking are popular activities in this area, with the well-known North Branch Trail running through and providing both paved and unpaved trails to enjoy. The North Branch of the Chicago River also flows through the area, offering scenic water views.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are there in Glenview?
Glenview offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with over 80 routes suitable for all ages and skill levels. The majority, around 62, are rated as easy, making them perfect for a relaxed family outing.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Glenview?
The trails around Glenview are generally flat, reflecting the area's glacial history. You'll find a mix of paved and unpaved paths, often winding through woodlands, wetlands, and along waterways like the Skokie Lagoons and the North Branch of the Chicago River. This variety ensures comfortable walking for families.
Are there any stroller-friendly or accessible trails for families with young children?
Yes, many trails in Glenview are suitable for strollers due to their flat and often paved surfaces. The extensive North Branch Trail System, for example, offers a 13-mile paved stretch connecting various forest preserves, providing excellent accessible options for families with strollers or those seeking easier paths. Routes like the North Branch Red Paved Trail are particularly well-suited.
What natural features or landmarks can we see along the family-friendly trails?
Glenview's trails offer beautiful natural scenery. You can explore dense woodlands in preserves like Harms Woods and Watersmeet Woods, or enjoy picturesque water views along the North Branch Yellow Unpaved Trail which circles the southern part of the Skokie Lagoons. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including deer, and visit natural monuments like The Grove, a 151-acre nature preserve.
Are there any circular routes suitable for families?
Absolutely! Many trails in Glenview are designed as loops, which are ideal for families as you end up back where you started. A great example is the Harms Woods Preserve loop from Golf, which offers a pleasant circular hike through the woods.
Can we bring our dog on the family-friendly hikes?
Many forest preserves and trails in Glenview are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check specific preserve rules before you go, but generally, the natural surface trails are welcoming to leashed pets.
What is the best time of year for family hikes in Glenview?
Spring, summer, and fall all offer wonderful conditions for family hikes in Glenview. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer provides lush greenery and shade, and fall showcases vibrant foliage. Even winter can be enjoyable for a crisp walk, though some unpaved trails might be muddy or icy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any places to learn about nature near the trails?
Yes, Glenview is home to several excellent nature centers. The River Trail Nature Center offers free exhibits on local plants and animals and connects to the Des Plaines Trail System. The Wildwood Nature Center provides opportunities to explore prairie lands, and The Grove is a dedicated nature preserve with an interpretive center, perfect for educational family outings.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Glenview?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the accessibility of trails that make them perfect for families. The scenic views along the Skokie Lagoons and the North Branch of the Chicago River are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any shorter, easy trails for families with very young children or limited time?
For shorter, easy options, consider trails within the forest preserves. Many offer segments that are just a couple of miles long, ideal for a quick family stroll. The North Branch Orange Trail is a great choice, offering a pleasant 4 km (2.5 mile) walk through natural surroundings.
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