10 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Illinois (2023 Guide)
0 3 minutes read
Advertisement
Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.
Advertisement
Despite having a reputation as the Prairie State, Illinois has many different hiking trails with varying elevations and beautiful views. Fortunately, many of these trails are dog-friendly, so you can take your furry companion with you to get some exercise and enjoy being immersed in nature. Some hiking trails require dogs to be on a leash, while others have areas for off-leash walking. Our list has some of the best dog-friendly hiking trails in Illinois and all the information you need to ensure you and your dog have a safe time hiking together.
Table of Contents
The 10 Dog-Friendly Hiking Trails in Illinois
1. Â Trillium Trail
Recommended to walk the trail clockwise
Keep dogs on leashbecause some areas have poison ivy and copperhead snakes in summer
Many wildflowers and birds and present in summer
Trail includes an overlook with a scenic view
Stairs leading to the bluffs are pretty steep
2. Garden of the Gods Loop
Trail includes beautiful rock formations
Waterfalls are only active during wet seasons
Trail can get muddy so make sure to wear waterproof hiking shoes
Trail is used by both hikers and horseback riders
Many other trails are located in Shawnee National Forest
3. Silver Springs State Fish and Wildlife Area
Easy and relaxing hike along Fox River
Can get busy during summer, especially on weekends
Picnic tables are located along the route
Also a popular fishing and hunting spot
4. DuPage River Trail: Whalon Lake Loop
Easy, child-friendly trail with a paved path
Plenty of family activities to do in Downtown Naperville
Trail is part of a network of trails that’s over 70 miles long
5. Des Plaines River Trail
Off-leash dog parks are onsite but require a paid permit
Entire trail is over 50 miles long
Keep an eye out for horseback riders
Some areas can flood during the rainy season
6. Cal-Sag Trail
Area is also a popular fishing destination
Beware of swans and stay away at a safe distance
Trail is paved, but some moderately steep areas may be challenging for strollers and wheelchairs
7. LaBagh Woods Nature Observation Loop
Trail can be unclear at times, so download anoffline map before visiting
Conveniently located close to Chicago
Popular location for birding and fishing
Can get very muddy
8. Black Hawk Forest Nature Preserve
Restrooms located throughout the entire park
Picnic areas and shelters with grills and fireplaces are available on a first-come-first-serve basis
Swimming is not allowed
A popularlocation for birding
9. Starved Rock State Park
10. Rim Rock National Recreational Trail
Conclusion
Whether it’s out in nature or near a busy town or city, Illinois has plenty of hiking options for you and your dog. Just keep in mind that most hiking trails require dogs to be leashed at all times and only let your dog run off-leash in designated dog-friendly areas. Most hiking trails also don’t have many trash receptacles, so make sure to pack light. Respecting park rules will ensure that both your dog and the surrounding wildlife are kept safe, and you can keep enjoying hikes together for many more years to come.
Featured Image Credit: N K, Shutterstock
Written by
Jessica is a freelance writer who spends most of her day researching and writing while her fluffy Cavapoo, Nora, naps beside her. She loves pets and animals because there’s so much to learn from them, and they do so much for us. As a dog mom, she understands the special connection that pet parents have with their pets. So, she loves sharing helpful information that people can use to better understand their pets. When she isn’t writing, you may find her walking dogs, tending to her plant babies, or drinking her nth cup of coffee.…Read more
