The best walks and hikes around Westmont

Yes, the most prominent waterfall in the area is Rocky Glen. You can see it by hiking the Rocky Glen Waterfall via Waterfall Glen Main Trail loop. This trail is located within the Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve, a very popular spot known for its scenic beauty.

The region has many easy trails perfect for families. A great option is the Lyman Woods Forest Preserve loop, which is a short and accessible walk through woodlands and wetlands. Another excellent choice is the trail system at Hidden Lake Forest Preserve, which features gentle crushed limestone paths around two lakes.

Many forest preserves around Westmont are dog-friendly, but they must be kept on a leash. Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is a particularly popular destination for dog walkers. Always check the specific regulations for the preserve you plan to visit before you go.

Yes, for a paved surface, consider the Brezina Woods via Salt Creek Greenway Red Paved Trail. The Illinois Prairie Path, a long-distance 'rails-to-trails' conversion, also offers flat and paved sections that are ideal for strollers and accessible hiking.

There are over 35 hiking routes to explore in the Westmont area. The majority of these are rated as easy, with the remainder being moderate, making the region very accessible for most fitness levels. You won't find any difficult alpine climbs here.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths within the forest preserves and the peaceful scenery of the woodlands and lakes.

Absolutely. Most trails in the area are loops, making for convenient hikes without the need to backtrack. The Bemis Woods Loop is a great example of a classic woodland loop that's just over 3 miles long.

While most trails are flat, you can find a serious physical challenge at the nearby Swallow Cliff Stairs. This popular fitness spot features a loop with nearly 300 steps, offering an intense cardio workout with a rewarding view from the top.

The area is rich with highly-rated natural spaces for hiking. Some of the most popular include:

• Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve: A large, well-loved preserve famous for its waterfall and extensive trail system.
• Greene Valley Forest Preserve: Known for its scenic overlook which can offer views of the Chicago skyline on a clear day.
• Swallow Cliff Stairs: A top-rated destination for those seeking a strenuous stair-climbing workout in a natural setting.

Yes, the Illinois Prairie Path is a 61-mile 'rails-to-trails' path that runs through the region. It offers a different kind of hiking experience, connecting multiple communities and natural areas along a flat, accessible route.

Most trails within the forest preserves, such as Waterfall Glen and Hidden Lake, are wide paths made of crushed gravel or limestone. You will also find some paved asphalt trails, particularly along the Salt Creek Trail System and the Illinois Prairie Path.

For a more serene experience, consider visiting Smith Woods. It's a smaller, peaceful park with well-maintained gravel paths that are ideal for a quiet walk or light hike away from the larger, more frequented preserves.