There’s a reason Illinois is known as the Prairie State with rolling grassland as far as the eye can see. The North American prairie is actually an endangered ecosystem due to agriculture, urbanization, and other factors. The Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, established in 1996 by the Illinois Land Conservation Act, protects 18,094 acres of this fragile ecosystem and has hiking trails for all to enjoy. The Buffalo Viewing Trail in Illinois gives some of the best views of the grasslands as well as the opportunity to view the bison who live here.
The Buffalo Viewing Trail is a 3.6-mile loop with moderate traffic and only a 52-foot elevation gain. It is good for all hiking levels, including children, and dogs are allowed but must be kept on leash.
Sarah Lombard/AllTrails
The wide and well-marked pathway is accessible all year and is great for trail running, hiking, nature viewing, and bird watching.
Michael Gaughan/AllTrails
From the trail, you will get some of the best grassland views in the park. Enjoy unparalleled prairie views all around you. They are simply breathtaking.
Hannah Larson/AllTrails
The prairie seems endless along certain parts of the trail, so you may want to stop, look around, and take it all in. It’s quite a special place to spend time.
Ayesha Qazi/AllTrails
You will see remnants of the former Joliet ammunitions plant that was open during World War II. Several army ammunition bunkers are seen along the trail and give a glimpse into the history of what was once here.
Michael Gaughan/AllTrails
The Forest Service has been working to restore the prairie lands at Midewin. In 2015, a herd of bison was introduced to help with the restoration. You may see these large animals grazing while you are hiking. If not, you have the opportunity to view a livestream of them on the park’s website.
Joe bogdan/AllTrails
Stop in for a visit at the Midewin Welcome Center, where you can view interpretive signs to learn more about prairie habitat as well as the Bison Project.
Charles Carper/AllTrails
Have you hiked Buffalo Viewing Trail in Illinois before? What was your experience like? Please let us know in the comments below!
Sarah Lombard/AllTrails
Michael Gaughan/AllTrails
Hannah Larson/AllTrails
Ayesha Qazi/AllTrails
Joe bogdan/AllTrails
Charles Carper/AllTrails
For more information on the Buffalo Viewing Trail at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, please visit the webpage on Alltrails here.
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