Skokie River Park | Waukegan

Skokie River Park and Surrounding Natural Areas

1. Skokie River Nature Preserve (Lake Forest)

Size & Location:
The Skokie River Nature Preserve covers approximately 81 acres in Lake Forest, Illinois. It is the oldest and largest preserve managed by the Lake Forest Open Lands Association.

Landscape & Ecology:
The preserve features diverse ecosystems typical of the Skokie River valley, including woodlands, savannas, prairies, and sedge meadows. These habitats support a wide variety of native plants and wildlife.

Notable Flora & Fauna:
Among the rare plants found here is the threatened white lady’s slipper orchid, which blooms in spring. Wildlife includes native birds, small mammals, and aquatic species thriving in and around the river.

Trails & Access:
There are approximately 3.6 miles of well-maintained trails that wind through the preserve, offering scenic views of the river and natural habitats. The trails are mostly flat and suitable for walking and birdwatching.

Historical Feature:
The preserve contains a restored swinging footbridge that crosses the Skokie River. The original bridge was built in 1887, with a replacement constructed in the 1940s, adding historic charm to the natural setting.

Activities:
Visitors enjoy hiking, photography, wildlife observation, and environmental education. The preserve is a peaceful retreat ideal for nature lovers and families.

2. Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park (Skokie)

Concept & Location:
Although not strictly a “river park,” the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park runs alongside the north channel of the Skokie River in Skokie, Illinois. It stretches about 2 miles between Dempster Street and Touhy Avenue.

Art & Recreation:
The park features more than 60 outdoor sculptures by local, national, and international artists. The sculptures are set amid landscaped green spaces and natural areas.

Use:
It is a popular spot for walking, jogging, biking, and cultural outings. The park is open year-round and free to the public.

3. North Branch Trail

Trail Overview:
The North Branch Trail is a paved, multi-use trail approximately 20 miles long. It closely follows the Skokie River and the North Branch of the Chicago River.

Connectivity:
This trail connects several forest preserves, natural areas, and community parks, including Skokie Lagoons and the Chicago Botanic Garden.

Activities:
Ideal for cycling, running, walking, and birdwatching, the trail provides access to natural and urban landscapes along the river corridor.

4. Skokie Lagoons

Description:
The Skokie Lagoons are a system of seven interconnected lagoons formed by damming parts of the Skokie River.

Size & Location:
Covering roughly 242 acres near Glencoe and Northbrook, the lagoons are surrounded by wooded areas and wetlands.

Recreation:
The lagoons are popular for canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Multiple access points include Erickson Woods, Tower Road, and Forest Way Grove.

Wildlife & Environment:
The area supports rich biodiversity, with many bird species, amphibians, and native plants. It is a favorite spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

5. Skokie River Woods (Highland Park)

Size & Location:
This is a 24.77-acre natural area located near the Highland Park Country Club in Highland Park, Illinois.

Ecological Importance:
The park features wetlands and wooded areas that function as natural rainwater storage and provide habitat for local flora and fauna.

Restoration Efforts:
Ongoing ecological restoration aims to enhance the biodiversity, improve water quality, and preserve the natural character of the site.

Activities:
Visitors can enjoy peaceful nature walks and observe wetland ecosystems within a suburban setting.

Access & Visitor Information

Access Points:

Skokie River Nature Preserve: West end of Laurel Avenue, Lake Forest

Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park: Along McCormick Boulevard, Skokie

North Branch Trail: Various trailheads including Harms Woods (Skokie) and Chicago Botanic Garden

Skokie Lagoons: Erickson Woods, Tower Road, Forest Way Grove

Skokie River Woods: 2580 Skokie Valley Road, Highland Park

Trail Conditions:
Trails range from paved multi-use paths (North Branch Trail) to natural dirt and gravel paths (Nature Preserve, Lagoons). Most trails are suitable for hiking and biking; some areas may be uneven or muddy after rain.

Accessibility:
Certain trail sections and park areas are wheelchair accessible, especially paved trails like the North Branch Trail.

Summary

The Skokie River Park and its surrounding natural preserves form a broad network of green spaces along the Skokie River corridor. This region provides rich ecological habitats, recreational trails, cultural experiences (such as outdoor sculpture art), and water-based activities. Whether your interests are hiking, biking, canoeing, birdwatching, or simply enjoying nature and art, these interconnected parks and preserves offer diverse and accessible options.