Reconnect at nearby, leisurely Palos Heights

The sunlight filters through the sparse pine trees, illuminating the golden brown leaves covering the forest floor. A robin stands on a pile of leaves, rummaging for a twig for its nest, while frogs croak non-stop in a nearby marsh. The tranquil sounds and sights of nature transport you to a world away from the buzz of the city. 

Located just a 30-minute drive southwest from downtown Chicago, the Palos Heights trail system in the Forest Preserves of Cook County offers dozens of miles of trails for a refreshing morning walk or afternoon stroll. Visitors can take leisurely walks on paved paths, hike through the forests or bring mountain bikes to explore the trails. 

The trail system is filled with rolling hills, deep ravines and beautiful views to take in the beautiful oak forests. Lakes and marshes also line the trails. 

Before leaving, make sure to examine the online trail map to help pick the length and type of trail. It also clearly indicates parking lots and trail entrances to help find directions. Many trail sights also have their own picnic grove, so consider bringing lunch or a snack to eat while enjoying the nature. 

The Swallow Cliff Woods offer an enjoyable hike and quite a picturesque view. Enter from the north side to find a 100-foot bluff that provides a demanding stair workout. The uneven granite steps provide a hefty challenge to climb, but the lookout observatory at the top provides a beautiful view of the forest preserve and even a glimpse of the city skyline on the clearest of days. A café at the bottom of the stairs can provide a quick snack or smoothie treat. 

Beyond the stairs lies a network of trails for a peaceful walk in the forest. Pine trees line the path and off-the-beaten path trails go into rolling streams at the bottom of hills or prairie grasslands. Birds chirping, squirrels fluttering and frogs croaking supplement the peaceful walk in the fresh air. The 8.1-mile Yellow Unpaved Loop winds around Swallow Cliff Woods and connects to the ravine-filled Cap Sauers Holding Nature Preserve and Calumet-Sag Trail along the channel. 

As the spring season comes, the Palos Heights trail system will come to life out of its winter slumber with more wildlife and budding trees. Consider taking a casual stroll as the weather gets warmer to regain a peaceful touch with nature.