Hike Around The Scenic Skokie Lagoons In Illinois

Hiking is always a good idea in the Prairie State, and hiking by water is an even better one. There are so many incredible state parks and wilderness areas to go hiking in the Prairie State, but not many trails lead past a lagoon. However, the Skokie Lagoon Trail in Cook County takes hikers on a scenic adventure past not just one, but a series of seven lagoons.

Skokie Lagoon Trail is an 11.4-mile loop that is partially paved and good for both hiking and biking. It is a moderately difficult hike given the length and 127-foot elevation gain.

AllTrails

Skokie Lagoons is a nature preserve that is owned and managed by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County. It consists of seven interconnected lagoons, complete with channels and islands, through the Skokie River and spans an area of 242 acres.

John Cowan/AllTrails

Water flowing from the Chicago Botanic Garden comes through the lagoons to the Skokie River. In the 1930s, the lagoons were created by the Civilian Conservation Corps in order to control flooding in the area.

Joe Moennig/AllTrails

Part of the trail is heavily trafficked, especially with bikes, but there are some areas along the way that have fewer people.

Shashank Singhai/AllTrails

From the main trail, you can veer off and take the 4.1-mile Skokie Lagoons Inner Trail which is unpaved and lightly trafficked. This moderate trail that will take you through forestland is your best bet for some solitude and incredible wildlife viewing along the water.

C Den/AllTrails

If you choose to spend some time on the water, you can rent or bring a kayak or canoe. This is another peaceful way to explore the vast lagoon waterway system.

Belle Tejeda/AllTrails

The Skokie Lagoon Trail leads to the Chicago Botanic Garden, where you can begin or end your hike. Just set aside some time to enjoy the gardens along with the lagoons for a lovely day trip in the great outdoors!

Jose luis Jorquiera/AllTrails

Have you hiked around the Skokie Lagoons? If so, what was the experience like?

AllTrails

John Cowan/AllTrails

Joe Moennig/AllTrails

Shashank Singhai/AllTrails

C Den/AllTrails

Belle Tejeda/AllTrails

Jose luis Jorquiera/AllTrails

For more information on the trail and to see what other hikers have to say, visit the Skokie Lagoon Trails webpage on AllTrails and to incorporate a trip to the Chicago Botanic Garden, read our previous post.

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Address: Skokie Lagoons, Illinois, USA