What we’re about
The southwest suburbs are full of wonderful forest preserves, parks and natural areas. I spend a lot of time walking/hiking in them, and I'm sure there are others of you who are retired, working part-time, between jobs or whatever who like to get some outdoor exercise during the week. Let's get together and do some walking!
We usually hike on Tuesday mornings for 1-2 hours, usually between 3 and 5 miles, at a moderate pace. Coffee or lunch afterwards is often an option. Hkes may also be scheduled on other days of the week, along with occasional longer outings to places further away. We may or may not hike year-round, depending on the severity of the weather.
Dogs are not permitted on this group's hikes, unless a special exception is requested and granted or a special "dog-friendly" hike is announced. Several of the places we frequently hike are nature preserves that don't allow dogs. Also, I think it might slow down the group or cause problems if several people bring dogs. Thanks for your cooperation.
Upcoming events (2)
See all- Hike the Tinley Creek Red Trail from Rubio Woods, 9.4 miles or lessRubio Woods, Midlothian, IL$1.00
Third in our long spring training hikes, the 9.4-mile Tinley Creek Red loop. Option is to turn around at any point which I assume many may do, perhaps at Arrowhead Lake (6 miles out-and-back) or earlier, on your own or with one of our co-leaders. I haven't hiked this trail much, but believe it's paved and quite flat (and may have wet spots if it's been rainy). If anyone is more familiar with this trail and has additional info, please add it in comments.
Bring water and perhaps a snack if you plan to hike the whole loop. We don't hike especially fast, but if you plan to do this you must be able to keep up.
Trail map at: FPCC-Tinley-Creek-Trail-Map-10-15.pdf (fpdcc.com)
Southwest Zone Map - Forest Preserves of Cook County (fpdcc.com) - Hike the Palos Yellow Trail, all or part, 9.2 miles or lessLittle Red Schoolhouse Nature Center, Willow Springs, IL$1.00
Although we hike on portions of it all the time, I've never hiked the entire Palos Yellow Trail. So it's time for some exploring! We'll start at the Little Red Schoolhouse and hike east as we often do. Anyone who wants can easily return early on the Country Lane Woods trail at several junctions which I'll point out. It's likely a co-leader will also choose one of these options.
Continuing on, it looks like the trail is unpaved with both easy and more challenging portions. Could also be muddy. If you plan to try the whole thing, please bring water and maybe a snack as this will take some time. Although we don't hike especially fast, please don't attempt this option unless you are prepared and can keep up.
Palos Trail System Map - Forest Preserves of Cook County (fpdcc.com)
