The best running trails around West Chicago

Step back in time as you explore the historic farmsteads dating to the late 1800s at this site. A rare gabled-roofed farmhouse remains, one of the last of its style in DuPage County, along with a massive wood-planked German barn dating back to 1890, if not earlier. The worn fieldstone foundation of another vintage barn can still be spotted. In the 1920s, Chauncey and Marion McCormick acquired the property, pursuing their passion for horses by building colonial-style red brick stables with imported English iron posts. To support their award-winning herd of Guernsey cows, they constructed an innovative dairy barn with spacious stalls and various outbuildings that set the standard for Midwest farmers. Later, their son Brooks and wife Hope erected the indoor arena that hosted equestrian events and a therapeutic riding program. Today, this charming arena with idyllic river birch views can be rented out for small gatherings, letting you experience the rich agricultural history of this special place.

Explore the natural wonders of Timber Ridge Forest Preserve in West Chicago, spanning 1,149 acres. This haven offers trails, fishing, and picnicking, along with the immersive experience of Kline Creek Farm's 1890s living history. Serving as the trailhead for the Great Western Trail and Illinois Prairie Path, Timber Ridge boasts diverse landscapes, including oak woodlands, savannas, prairies, wetlands, and lakes.

Transport yourself to the 1890s at Kline Creek Farm, a working farm that echoes historical rhythms of rural life. Explore the farmhouse with original artifacts and reproductions, offering an authentic glimpse into daily routines. House tours, covering topics from baking to spring cleaning, run hourly from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Experience seasonal activities like tending the kitchen garden, milking cows, and harvesting ice from Timber Lake.

Spanning 713 acres, West Branch Forest Preserve captivates with diverse habitats, plants, and wildlife. Initially acquired for flood control, it now boasts a reservoir for stormwater collection and natural filtration. The preserve showcases two lakes, wetlands, a tallgrass meadow, a wet prairie, an immature floodplain forest, and a rare fen.

Step back in time as you explore the historic farmsteads dating to the late 1800s at this site. A rare gabled roof farmhouse remains, one of the last of its style in DuPage County, along with a massive wood-planked German barn dating back to 1890, if not earlier. The worn fieldstone foundation of another vintage barn can still be spotted. In the 1920s, Chauncey and Marion McCormick acquired the property, pursuing their passion for horses by building colonial style red brick stables with imported English iron posts. To support their award-winning herd of Guernsey cows, they constructed an innovative dairy barn with spacious stalls and various outbuildings that set the standard for Midwest farmers. Later, their son Brooks and wife Hope erected the indoor arena that hosted equestrian events and a therapeutic riding program. Today, this charming arena with idyllic river birch views can be rented out for small gatherings, letting you experience the rich agricultural history of this special place.

For avid birdwatchers, McKee Marsh presents prime wildlife viewing year-round. Spring and summer offer wetland species up close. Fall brings migratory birds fluttering through. Even winter's quiet landscape has feathers fluttering about. Each season provides new sightings in this scenic treasure.

The Blackwell Forest Preserve features oak and hickory forests, grasslands, pastures and wetlands. Many species find refuge here and can be observed.