The best walks and hikes around Matteson
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Hiking around Matteson, Illinois, explores a landscape characterized by restored prairies, hardwood forests, and protected wetlands. The region features a generally flat topography, with many routes following paved paths through local forest preserves. This network of trails provides accessible options for walking and hiking through the area's native ecosystems.
Best hiking trails around Matteson
- The most popular hiking route is Thorn Creek Black Paved Loop, an easy 3.7 miles (5.9 km) path that takes about 1 hour 30 minutes to complete. This paved trail offers a straightforward walk through a wooded preserve.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Vollmer Grove Trail, a moderate 8.9 miles (14.3 km) route. This trail features an elevation gain of 95 feet (29 meters).
- Local hikers also love the Walton Preserve Loop, a 4.6 miles (7.4 km) trail leading through a preserve, often completed in about 2 hours.
- Hiking around Matteson is defined by its mix of expansive prairies, quiet woodlands, and accessible paved trails. The trail network provides routes suitable for various fitness levels, from short walks to longer hikes.
- The routes in Matteson are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 2 reviews. More than 30 hikers have used komoot to explore Matteson's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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hikers
14.3km
03:37
30m
30m
Discover the Vollmer Grove Trail, a moderate hiking route spanning 8.9 miles (14.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 95 feet (29 metres). This loop trail offers a peaceful journey through a pleasant mix of shaded wooded areas and open green spaces, taking approximately 3 hours and 37 minutes to complete. As you hike, you can enjoy diverse vegetation, look for beautiful wildflowers, and keep an eye out for local wildlife within the serene setting of the Vollmer Road Grove.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as ample parking is available directly at the trailhead. The trail is welcoming to dogs, but please ensure they remain on a leash throughout your hike. You will also find accessible picnic shelters and sites nearby, perfect for relaxing and enjoying a meal after your time on the path.
The Vollmer Grove Trail is notable for its successful restoration efforts, which have helped maintain its diverse vegetation and natural beauty. Located near Country Club Hills, Illinois, it stands out as a family-friendly option for enjoying nature and observing the local ecosystem. This route provides a refreshing escape, showcasing the area's commitment to preserving its natural environment.
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7.42km
01:52
10m
10m
The Walton Preserve Loop in Homewood, Illinois, offers a refreshing escape into diverse natural settings. As you follow this easy 4.6-mile (7.4 km) route, you'll find yourself moving through peaceful woodlands, past tranquil lakes, and across open native prairies. The trail's minimal 37 feet (11 metres) of elevation gain means you can enjoy the changing scenery, including ancient sand dunes, without breaking a sweat, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed outing.
Planning your visit to the Homewood Izaak Walton Preserve is quite simple, with on-site parking available for easy trailhead access. The trail is generally open and accessible, but if you're bringing your furry friend or planning to cast a line, remember that a paid membership is required for dog walking and fishing. This loop is a great option for a casual hike any time of year, though spring and autumn often provide the most comfortable conditions and beautiful views.
This preserve, encompassing 193 acres, is a significant conservation area dedicated to preserving Illinois' natural heritage. Beyond the main loop, the preserve hosts various events and offers facilities like Senior Hall and Black Bear Lodge, highlighting its role as a community hub for nature appreciation. It's a fantastic example of how diverse ecosystems, from woodlands to prairies, can thrive close to urban areas, offering a vital green space for local wildlife and residents alike.
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2.31km
00:35
10m
10m
The Centennial Park Loop Trail offers a refreshing urban escape, winding through a well-kept green space that provides a pleasant backdrop for a casual walk. You'll find mostly paved paths, with some sections of decomposed granite, making for a smooth and accessible surface. It's a great spot to observe local birdlife, particularly during migration seasons, adding a touch of natural beauty to your outing.
Planning your visit is simple, as parking is readily available at Centennial Park. This easy 1.4-mile (2.3 km) route, with only 18 feet (6 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 35 minutes to complete, making it ideal for a quick stroll. It's a family-friendly option that you can enjoy year-round, though spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for your walk.
This trail stands out as a highly accessible hiking trail for beginners or anyone seeking a gentle outdoor activity within the Tinley Park area. It provides a valuable green lung in an urban setting, perfect for a leisurely break or a short, easy walk to clear your head. Its maintained paths and minimal difficulty make it a popular choice for local residents.
5.42km
01:22
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Embark on an easy hike along the Old Plank Road Trail, a flat, paved path that meanders for 3.4 miles (5.4 km). You will experience minimal elevation gain, just 12 feet (4 metres), making it a comfortable outing that typically takes around 1 hour and 22 minutes to complete. As you go, you'll pass through varied scenery, including oak trees, prairie grasses, and wildflowers, with a notable highlight being the distinctive arrowhead-shaped suspension bridge spanning over US 45.
This multi-use paved route is designed for easy access, making it a convenient choice for a day trip. You will find parking readily available at several points along the trail's length, allowing you to start your adventure from various locations. The trail is well-suited for a relaxed pace, and its accessibility means you can enjoy it at almost any time of day.
The Old Plank Road Trail is particularly well-regarded as an excellent option for beginner hikers due to its gentle grade and clear path. Beyond its natural beauty, the trail's unique suspension bridge is an award-winning architectural feature, adding an interesting visual element to your journey. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you explore the prairie patches and nature preserves bordering the route.
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5.94km
01:30
10m
10m
The Thorn Creek Black Paved Loop offers a wonderfully accessible and scenic hike, perfect for when you want to immerse yourself in nature without tackling rugged terrain. This easy 3.7-mile (5.9 km) route, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, guides you along the tranquil shores of Sauk Lake before winding into peaceful sections of real woods filled with big trees. The entire loop is paved and generally smooth, making it a comfortable journey for most, though you'll encounter one steep hill near the lake that adds a touch of challenge.
To enjoy this trail, head to the Sauk Trail Woods Forest Preserve, where you'll find the trailhead for this well-maintained loop. Parking is typically available, making access simple for a quick outing. Since it's an easy, paved route, it's a great choice for a spontaneous walk or a leisurely afternoon, and its contained nature means you can enjoy it without extensive planning.
This loop is a notable part of the larger Thorn Creek Trail System, a South Suburban Gem known for its diverse vistas and connectivity. While the Black Paved Loop offers a gentle experience, the broader system provides options for longer excursions and more challenging natural surface trails, showcasing varied landscapes from woodlands to open meadows.
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Popular around Matteson
Tips from the Community
Sauk Trail Lake is a small freshwater lake located in Cook County. It is an enlarged portion of Thorn Creek. It is located in the Sauk Trail Woods Forest Preserve. There is a rich fish fauna in this lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails in the Matteson area?
Yes, many of the forest preserves and trails around Matteson are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash. A popular spot for a walk with your pet is the Matteson,IL Vollmer Road Grove, which offers plenty of shade. Always check the specific regulations for the preserve you plan to visit before you go.
What are some easy, family-friendly hikes near Matteson?
The region has many accessible trails perfect for families and beginners. The Pogie Lake Loop — Oak Forest Heritage Preserve is a great option, offering a straightforward walk. Many paths, like the Old Plank Road Trail, are paved, making them suitable for strollers and walkers of all ages.
Can I find any waterfalls on hikes near Matteson?
While the immediate Matteson area is mostly flat prairie and woodland, you can find a waterfall at the highly-regarded Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve. It's a bit of a drive but features a scenic, small waterfall along its multi-use trails, making it a popular destination for a day trip.
Where can I find paved walking trails around Matteson?
The area is well-served with paved trails. The Old Plank Road Trail is a 22-mile paved path that runs directly through Matteson, offering a flat and accessible route. For a shorter paved walk within a preserve, consider the Thorn Creek Black Paved Loop— Sauk Trail Woods Forest Preserve.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The local preserves offer good opportunities for wildlife spotting. You might see white-tailed deer and red foxes in wooded areas like the Matteson Forest Preserve. The wetlands at Butterfield Creek Headwaters and other preserves are also important stopovers for migratory birds, making them excellent spots for birdwatching.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, there are several loop trails that bring you back to your starting point. The Orland Grassland loop from Orland Township is a great example, taking you on a circuit through open prairie landscapes. Many forest preserve trails are designed as loops for convenience.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Matteson?
The trails in this region are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the mix of quiet woodlands, expansive prairies, and the accessibility of the well-maintained paved paths.
Are there any long-distance trails accessible from Matteson?
The Old Plank Road Trail is the primary long-distance path in the area, stretching for 22 miles and connecting Matteson with several other towns. It's a former railway line, providing a flat and continuous route for an extended hike or bike ride. For more information on this specific trail, you can visit the Forest Preserve District of Will County's page.
What are the trail surfaces like? Do I need special hiking boots?
The trails around Matteson are quite varied. Many popular routes, like sections of the Old Plank Road Trail, are paved and suitable for any comfortable walking shoes. Other paths in preserves like Thorn Creek Woods are natural surface trails through woodlands, where you might prefer shoes with more support, especially after rain.
Where can I experience native Illinois prairie landscapes?
The Old Plank Road Prairie Nature Preserve, which surrounds a section of the Old Plank Road Trail in Matteson, is one of the best places to see a restored black soil prairie. Here you can walk among native wildflowers and tall grasses for a serene and immersive nature experience.
Are there any good spots for birdwatching?
Yes, the region's wetlands and preserves are excellent for birdwatching. The Butterfield Creek Headwaters Land and Water Reserve is a known stopover for migratory birds. Additionally, the mix of forest, prairie, and wetlands in places like the Matteson Forest Preserve attracts a wide variety of bird species.
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