I have mixed emotions about this Kane County forest preserve…read more On the one hand I love it because it's very "birdy" and for those who love to watch and count birds it is special. On the other hand I hate the bikes that go whizzing by and rattle the bridge just as I'm capturing a melodic or mournful bird song. There are some who politely slow down and call out "On your left" but some really seem to get a kick out of almost knocking someone over. If you walk over the two bridges and go down the path to the right along the opposite bank of the river you will be in Tekawitha Woods, a twofer! Bikes cannot go through there.

Decent forest preserve a really nice running trail in the morning. Perhaps not as taken care of as…read moreother preserves. Beware of yellow jackets in late summer-early fall. I've gotten stung in this preserve a couple of times just minding my own business and running.

Have a good jog or just have a pleasant time walking around this park in Aurora. It of course has a…read morelake in the middle of it. Waubonsie Lake Park is located in more of a residential area but it gets outsiders. A few amenities. There's a playground and a shelter. Chill place for the most part with people just walking around. It's basically just a lake with a trail around it. There's a little bit of parkland. All of this is surrounded by houses. It seems most people here are from around it. A few things for families. There's a small playground along with pretend dinosaur bones to climb on. There's also modern playground equipment like slides and swings. Also there's a shelter by the lake. This is good for picnics. Good park for exercising or playing around. It's located on Kautz Road. This is good for children, adults working out, or whoever.

Very nice & peaceful I walk here weekly basic to clear my mind and breathe fresh air a few times I…read moresee deers rabbits lots of fishing near me but I'm not here for that ..let me get my walk on buddy..

Loved that there was next to a bicycle trail, you could see people passing by…read more We saw two deers, ducks and lots of birds and squirrels.

I like the trail along the river here where I have spotted many land and shore birds. It's quiet…read moreand shady so it's a good spot on a hot day. That being said, it can be muddy so be prepared. Also wear bug repellent and watch out for fallen limbs across the trail. At least those keep the bikers off the path.

If you're local it's awesome , if you're an out of towner like me you have to pay to park then pay…read moreto get in which sucks

What an amazing place! How did I not ever know about this? It is free for entrance otherwise it's a…read morefive dollar visitor fee. If you wish to go to the main beach, that's an additional $12 if you are not a resident of Crystal Lake. The grounds are immaculate, very well maintained, and the bathrooms are clean. There are two lakes, multiple pavilions that you can rent ahead of time. Lots of picnic tables for you to sit down. Near the bar and grill while you can't go in the water, you can take your drink and sit on one of the cheers on the beach. You can watch people practice on their WaveRunner. Swing on the swings at the bar and listen to great music. I did not have any food here. I did have an amazing Mojito. The bartender was a young man looking to join the Barrington police force. Polite, kind and also had great customer service skills. The reason why I didn't give it five stars is that there are absolutely no markings anywhere as to what trail you are on, how long of a trail it is, and where there may be porta potties. There aren't any maps or QR codes and it was a bit confusing as I came upon several wise and the trail to decide which way to go as I had limited time there. Given the fact that everything is so nicely taken care of I don't know how they can't have at least some markings on the trails that they have there. One of the workers sent me direction and it literally just took me to a pavilion. They have kayaks, canoes, paddle boats and SUP boards. They also offer lessons for SUP depending on the day. Lots of people fishing. Amazing Place! Please add signage for the trails! The pop and water machine near the beach entrance did not work. Hopefully those are checked daily to repair.

This is a clean, open, and easy place for a hike. It's not particularly woodsie but the lakes are…read morelovely. Paved path. Clean bathrooms. Plenty of parking. Covered picnic area. Easy access from Butterfield & Route 53. Enter on Route 53, across from Walmart and McDonalds. There are few trees to buffer the wind, so dress warmly. Lots of dogs on the trail today. Watch your step, as not every dog-owner tidies up after their dog, but the trail is mostly clear of droppings.

Hidden lake forest preserve is truly a hidden gem. Located in Downers Grove. It was a nice sunny…read moreSunday to just get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather. It was a nice escape getaway from the city life. An ideal and nice place to relax and collet your inner thoughts. While walking along the trails everyone was so friendly and welcoming. It was a breath of fresh air to be out in nature. A perfect place to jog,kayak, fish, hike, have a picnic or just come and take a scroll. Not crowded and everyone social distances themselves. I came across a few people walking with their dogs. All dogs MUST be on a lease. Really enjoyed the scenery and the water from the river and lake was calming and peaceful.

Even though I've lived in the area forever, I've never been here before…read more I've been back here about six times since. I rode the Salt Creek trail from Villa Park to Wood Dale. It is a really nice trail with a few ponds, bridges, etc. I saw quite a few deer traveling this trail. The trail is fairly long and goes way beyond what I traveled. I plan on doing the whole trail in the future.

If you're looking for a peaceful place to practice your yoga this place is the perfect one!read more

Nice place for a walk and to observe nature. During the winter the indoor bathrooms are closed, but…read morethere is a porta potties. (Bring your own TP and hand sanitizer!) Trails had maps available and decent signage.

This is a great place for a pet friendly, on-leash walk with your dog. The limestone trails are…read moreflat and soft, and the trails around the water were busy, even on a chilly morning. There's a lot to see here and a variety of ways you can head on the path. I saw plenty of people fishing, no boats out yet, and a lot of other dogs and strollers. If your dog is not good around many other dogs or people, this might not be the place for you to walk on a busy day. But I did notice other directions you can walk, away from the water, that doesn't have as much traffic. The views are nice (if you can get past the fact that the giant mound you're seeing is garbage underneath) and the grounds seem well-kept and clean. There's plenty of parking, too. The only negative is getting around the goose poop and some litter blowing around in areas. But overall, it is a nice place to get some exercise in.

We discovered this place in 2020 & kept going as nature walks were the only family activity we…read morecould do during the pandemic. This park is impeccably maintained, safe & offers a vast green space along with ample parking. Views of the fox river, mature trees & big lush grassy lawn. There are numerous activities available besides walking, biking, picnicking. You can enjoy amenities such as a baseball park, tennis/pickleball courts, paddle boats & mini golf (for a fee), fitness circuit, beach volleyball & bocce or bring your own set of outdoor games. Also a small water park with slides. Now all that's lacking is a set of basketball hoops & this would be THE perfect park! The bike path runs alongside the scenic Fox River, providing breathtaking views. Benches & picnic tables are plentiful & scattered throughout the park. It's the perfect spot to set up a pop-up tent & picnic blanket like we always do. You can also rent a pavilion for parties & gatherings. This park is conveniently located near a variety of restaurants, stores & bookstores on Main St. in St. Charles.

Came here to picnic for Mother's Day. It was very crowded but a lot of green space. The park has…read morewide sidewalks for a stroll or biking. There are also activities. Paddle boats, scenic boat ride and mini golf. There are some snacks sold by the mini golf area. My only complaint is there isn't enough restrooms. There is one facility close to the parking lot but it is a long walk of you decide to camp farther away. There should at least be portopotties spread out.