Pet Painter supports raising happy and healthy pets! 🐈❤️🐕
Pet Painter supports raising happy and healthy pets! 🐈❤️🐕
Nora Johnson
Pet Specialist
Okay, all you chic Chicagoans and your fabulous four-legged friends, are you ready to turn the concrete jungle into a green escape? If you're anything like me, your doggo isn't just a pet; they're your most exuberant exercise buddy and trail-blazing bestie! So, shake off that city rush, grab a leash, and let’s pawsitively dive into the best dog-friendly hiking trails just a tail-wag away from the Windy City!
First on our list is Lakefront Trail, a stunning 18.5-mile stretch that lets you and your pup soak in different neighborhoods with every visit. Got a water-loving woof? Check out dog-friendly beaches like Montrose or Belmont along the way for a quick splash.
Take a short drive to Beck Lake for a sniff of the Des Plaines River Trail's prairie flowers. Don’t sweat if you're not the athletic type - this trail's got your back. And after, let Fido frolic freely in the off-leash area – rules apply, so check in with the Cook County Forest Preserve before going.
Escape to the Palos Preserves where trails abound. Try the easy-peasy trail at Country Lane Woods or amp up the adventure at Maple Lake. Remember, it's a shared space, so watch out for those on two wheels or four hooves!
About an hour's drive will land you and your furry family at Moraine Hills State Park. Mix it up on the trails or test your endurance on the marked running routes. Don't forget to pack a picnic – this park’s views are meant to be savored.
Bask in the open prairie land and let your dog sniff out native wildflowers at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. Don't worry about those bison; they're neighbors, not roommates, thanks to some thoughtful fencing.
For the ultimate outdoor enthusiast pup, head to Starved Rock State Park. This park offers canine-approved canyons and Insta-worthy vistas. Just keep a paw on the terrain – remember, safety fur-st!
Part of the Palos Trail System, the Swallow Cliff Woods offers breathtaking views without the huffing and puffing up those infamous fitness stairs which, by the way, are a no-dog zone.
For a more laid-back stroll, hit the paved North Branch Trail. Spanning an impressive 16 miles, there’s ample space to share with your bikers and joggers.
Perfect for doggos who can't get enough of the aquatic life, the Chain O’ Lakes State Park offers various lakes and trails to explore. Take a waterside meander and marvel at the views with your best pal.
A hop and a skip to Indiana Dunes National Park rewards you with dog-friendly beaches and myriad trails. With options ranging up to 6.8 miles, you're sure to find the perfect route for your three-legged race.
Now, before we wrap up this romp into nature, remember to be a good human – keep your buddy leashed, bring water, doggie bags, and maybe some treats (because who doesn't love treats?). And if you're feeling like a social butterfly, flutter your wings over to @SidewalkDog and share your trekking tales!
Don't let this tail end without tagging along on some sniff-tastic adventures. Whether you've got a spry Spaniel or a dawdling Dane, Chicago's outskirts have a trail to trailblaze. Ears up, tail wag, happy hiking! 🐾