Are you ready for a great little river trail hike in Illinois? Illinois is host to a remarkable number of hiking trails and rivers, so let’s get cracking and explore the great outdoors one trail at a time. Who’s with us? The Fox River Preserve Loop Trail, an easy but gorgeous hike north of Chicago, is waiting to be discovered by you. You won’t want to miss the splendid scenery along the way on this short-and-sweet hike in Illinois.

The Fox River Preserve Loop Trail is 1.1 miles long and located near Barrington, Illinois.

Anna Porten/AllTrails Keep your eyes peeled for colorful wildflowers and maybe even a sunset, in addition to the gorgeous panoramas of the Fox River.

The trail itself is comprised of gravel, asphalt, or concrete, with a bridge or two along the way.

Breanna Coe/AllTrails The path is generally at least six feet wide at any given point. You will find a couple of parking areas in the preserve, just follow the signs from West Roberts Road. Two parking spaces in the paved parking lot at the north end of the trail are designated as accessible with striped access aisles.

From time to time the local wildlife may be present on the trail too.

Anna Porten/AllTrails Be on the lookout for the eagle’s nest.

Each season, and even a different time of day, brings a fresh new look to the trail, changing the colors and the lighting as you go.

Anna Porten/AllTrails

The Fox River Preserve contains up to three miles of trails, so watch for the trail markers as you walk, to extend your hike beyond the loop trail.

Breanna Coe/AllTrails You can bring your leashed dog on the trail with you.

If you have time, sit by the Fox River for a bit, and soak up that view.

Anna Porten/AllTrails

Watch for the occasional waterbird taking a dip in the calm waters of the river.

Anna Porten/AllTrails The Fox River Preserve area includes a marina as well, with a public boat launch.

 

Anna Porten/AllTrails

Keep your eyes peeled for colorful wildflowers and maybe even a sunset, in addition to the gorgeous panoramas of the Fox River.

Breanna Coe/AllTrails

The path is generally at least six feet wide at any given point. You will find a couple of parking areas in the preserve, just follow the signs from West Roberts Road. Two parking spaces in the paved parking lot at the north end of the trail are designated as accessible with striped access aisles.

Be on the lookout for the eagle’s nest.

You can bring your leashed dog on the trail with you.

The Fox River Preserve area includes a marina as well, with a public boat launch.

For short-and-sweet hike along the Fox River in Illinois, we know you will thoroughly enjoy the Fox River Preserve Loop Trail near Barrington. For a trail map, visit the Lake County Forest Preserves website. For a list of other short, inspiring hikes in Illinois, read 9 Amazing Illinois Hikes Under 3 Miles You’ll Absolutely Love.

Have you hiked the Fox River Preserve Loop Trail? Share your thoughts with us!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: 28500 W Roberts Rd, Port Barrington, IL 60010, USA