© Thomas G. Wilson

Step into Lake County history during the Forest Preserves’ 28th annual Hike Lake County program. In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, this year’s 12 trails were selected for their connections to local history.

Panels along the trails highlight the people, places and events that helped shape Lake County. Hike at least seven of the 12 designated trails between August 15 and November 30 to earn a free commemorative bald eagle medallion.

Download an official Travel Log to record your hikes. One log may include up to five people, with a limit of two logs per address. Groups with more than five participants should submit additional logs. Travel Logs and trail maps are available in English and Spanish.

Dogs can join the adventure on dog-friendly trails. Add your dog’s name to the Travel Log to receive a free commemorative collar tag. Each participant may bring up to three dogs.

Look for Hike Lake County signs at preserve entrances and trailheads to find official routes. Participants must complete the trails on foot. Bicycling and horseback riding do not qualify.

Submit your completed Travel Log online by December 31. You may also mail it with a self-addressed stamped envelope to Lake County Forest Preserves, 1899 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville, IL 60048, or drop it off at the General Offices in Libertyville or the Ryerson Welcome Center in Riverwoods. Include a valid email address in case staff needs to contact you. Allow seven to 14 business days for processing.

The 2026 Hike Lake County locations include:

• Captain Daniel Wright Woods, Mettawa, 2.5 miles*
• Cuba Marsh, Deer Park, 1.6 miles
• Ethel’s Woods, Antioch, 1.3 miles
• Fort Sheridan, Lake Forest, 1.1 miles
• Grant Woods, Ingleside, 2.5 miles*
• Grassy Lake, Lake Barrington, 1.8 miles
• Half Day, Vernon Hills, 1.9 miles
• Independence Grove, Libertyville, 1.5 miles#
• Lyons Woods, Waukegan, 2 miles
• Raven Glen, Antioch, 1.7 miles
• Ray Lake, Wauconda, 2.6 miles*
• Van Patten Woods, Wadsworth, 1.9 miles
• Wild Card–You Pick, choose any Lake County Forest Preserve trail, 2 miles*

*Counts as two trails

#No dogs allowed

Guided Walks

Join an educator for a closer look at Lake County’s landscapes, wildlife and history during select Guided Lake County Hikes. Explore woodlands, prairies and other natural areas while learning what makes each preserve unique. Registration is required.

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