Okay, so it might not be a secret that is well kept, because the secret is right out in the open! What might look like a regular trail with trees and a path from the outside actually contains historical information that adds layers to the experience. Though it’s not a secret if we tell people, we hope that everyone can enjoy the information out here on the trail. Grab those hiking boots, and hit the trails!

Welcome to the lush and lively Kennicott’s Grove Nature Preserve, where hiking not only brings you fresh air, but also education. Who doesn’t love a little bit of both?

Rachel Fischer/AllTrails

This easy breezy trail is a nice loop to hike when you just need a short path with lots of beauty condensed along the way. Luckily, this 1.5-mile loop is only half an hour of hiking, provided you don’t get too distracted the scenery.

Shashank Singhai/AllTrails

Though some boardwalk hikes may include rails or walls, this flat path really allows for all the natural beauty to shine through. As long as you’re careful, the scenery is out in the open to enjoy from the boardwalk.

Shashank Singhai/AllTrails

Though not 100% of the trail is boardwalk, the paths outside of the wooden section are well kept during most parts of the year, and easy to find. Plus, they lead to something a little unexpected for hikers unaware of the preserve’s educational content.

Tom K/AllTrails

Not only are there signs that teach about local species of animals, but also information about the indigenous Potawatomi that used to call this area home. Replicas of the Kennicott longhouse that used to stand here as well as a bark tipi are available to give a visual on the local history.

Ajay Trilokeshwaran/AllTrails

With a little bit of learning on your hike, enjoying the outdoors can keep you entertained as well. Who doesn’t love a bonus on their adventures?

Ajay Trilokeshwaran/AllTrails

Educating yourself on the original people who occupied these lands leads to a better knowledge of the world around you that you explore on your various day trips. If you still want more after this hike, then you should definitely check out this trail system in Palos Hills for more outdoor adventures. Happy hiking!

Rachel Fischer/AllTrails

Shashank Singhai/AllTrails

Tom K/AllTrails

Ajay Trilokeshwaran/AllTrails

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Kennicott’s Grove Nature Preserve, 1421 Milwaukee Ave, Glenview, IL 60025, USA