 |
| Amenities |
| Drinking Water |
| Picnic Tables |
| Public Parking |
| Toilets |
| Trails |
|
|
|
Wright Woods |
About Wright Woods and Half Day forest preserves
Captain Daniel Wright Woods and Half Day forest preserves are peaceful oases among the bustling suburbs. These quiet, clean and safe sites are linked by a footbridge spanning the Des Plaines River. Together they offer some of southern Lake County's most scenic outdoor recreation opportunities. Facilities at the more fragile Wright Woods are best-suited for small groups, while those at Half Day are designed for gatherings both large and small.
The Des Plaines River Trail (DPRT) passes through both preserves. Its gravel base is perfect for hikers, bicyclists, horseback riders and cross-country skiers. Wright Woods has four miles of trail: a short loop for hikers, bicyclists and skiers that circles a pond, and a 3-mile loop for hikers, bicyclists, skiers and horses. A handicapped-accessible fishing pier provides easy access to the pond. |
| |
| Location |
| Captain Daniel Wright Woods Forest Preserve is located in southeast Lake County near Lincolnshire. |
| The entrance and parking area are located on Saint Mary’s Road at Everett Road, south of Route 60. |
| |
| History |
Wright Woods was named for one of Lake County’s first settlers, Captain Daniel Wright. In the early 1960s, these acres were some of the first acquired by the Lake County Forest Preserves.
In 2004, the 168-acre Lloyd's Woods addition to Wright Woods near Mettawa expanded the preserve to its current 612 acres. The main 6,600-square-foot home on that property was built in 1936, and was one of the first designs by Nat Owings of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill (SOM) of Chicago, the prominent architectural firm that crafted the Sears Tower (now Willis Tower), John Hancock building and many other well-known structures throughout the world. |
| |
| The Natural Scene |
Captain Daniel Wright Woods provides the opportunity to see the powerful effects of water and fire. Prior to settlement by Europeans, wildfires regularly swept eastward across Lake County, only to be stopped by the Des Plaines River. Situated just east of the river, Wright Woods supports a rich oak and maple woodland that sometimes develops in less frequently burned areas. With large stands of maples found at few other places in Lake County, Wright Woods is a great place to view autumn colors.
In spring, the bridge between Half Day and Wright Woods is a popular place to spot migrating songbirds like the yellow-throated warbler or Baltimore oriole. Later in the summer, look for nesting field birds in the restored prairie. Eastern bluebirds, tree swallows and red-tailed hawks are commonly seen here. |
| |
|
|
|
