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. Hikes 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
3
- $1.00
Cap Sauers Hike from Horsetail Lake - 5 miles or more
Horsetail Lake, 12101 104th Ave, Palos Park, IL, USWe'll start at Horsetail Lake and then head west and north on the Yellow trail until we reach the Green that heads west into the Cap Sauers Nature Preserve. As this part is out-and-back we'll explore as far as we want then head back. Those that want an extended hike (probably not me!) can continue further around to the east on the Yellow, there are many options. A nice scenic hike with a couple manageable hills, always a crowd pleaser.
Maps at: Sag Valley Trail System Map
Southwest Zone Map - Forest Preserves of Cook CountyThe Horsetail Lake Parking lot is just north of 123rd, aka McCarthy Rd, on 104th Ave, aka Willow Springs Rd. It is on the east side of 104th.
23 attendees - $1.00
I&M Canal Trail from Joliet Ironworks, 6+ miles or less
Joliet Iron Works Historic Site, 60 Columbia Street, Joliet, IL, USWe've enjoyed learning about our area's atomic history in Palos and the quarries in Lemont, so let's continue on this journey with the historic Joliet Iron Works. We'll spend some time exploring the Historic Site on the paved interpretive trail, Joliet Iron Works Historic Site | Forest Preserve District of Will County. This was the site of an iron manufacturing facility from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. Cultural resources protected at the preserve include foundations of the blast furnaces and other structures from the dismantled factory.
Then we'll head up the I&M Canal Towpath toward Lockport. It's about 3 miles to Dellwood Park with its own fascinating history. Those who like can explore the park or continue to downtown Lockport; those who want a shorter hike can turn around at any point and head back to the Ironworks. Easy, flat crushed stone trail.
17 attendees
Past events
779
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