Rare species, rare communities and exceptional natural areas combine to make this a very special preserve. More than half of the land is so ecologically valuable that it is dedicated as an Illinois Nature Preserve and benefits from special protection rules.
The preserve's rich natural and cultural history is recognized by its dual designation as an Illinois Nature Preserve (a selection saved for ecologically high-quality land) and as a Historic District by the National Register of Historic Places.
Due to its nature preserve designation, snowmobiles, dogs, horses and other pets are not allowed at this preserve. Bicycles are only allowed on roads, not on preserve trails.
Qualified service animals are allowed throughout the preserve and in all preserve facilities.
Trails
Over 6.5 miles of scenic trails wind through woods to the Des Plaines River. Trails here are open for hiking and, when snow is at least 4 inches deep, cross-country skiing.
Trails lead past historic buildings, next to the Des Plaines River and into a woodland dense enough to block out most human-made noises. Some visitors have even said that they feel transported far from Lake County as they follow the trails.
Charged Up For Change
The building looks as if it’s always been there. As though the floodplain forests of Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods, Illinois summoned the smoky green walls, floor-to-ceiling windows and sleek roof. But the new Ryerson Education Center (REC), opened spring 2024, is the culmination of three years of planning and an ambitious goal.
Create a net-zero energy building that produces as much power as it consumes each year. And it’s not alone. The Lake County Forest Preserves now has three buildings designed to achieve net-zero, and it’s purchasing more energy-efficient vehicles and battery-powered equipment.
Look inside the ongoing transition to an electric future.
Educational Opportunities
A variety of public programs and field trips for school and scout groups are offered here throughout the year. Ryerson also hosts popular annual events like Maple Syrup Hikes and Halloween Hikes. Stop in at the Welcome Center for a calendar of events and programs, or subscribe to Horizons, our free quarterly magazine. You can also read it online.
Upcoming Events
Explore Backpacks
Borrow our nature themed backpacks filled with activities for families with children up to 10 years old to help you learn as you explore. The packs are free to use while in the preserve and can be checked out at the Welcome Center. A driver's license is held as deposit. Choose from four themes: plants, farm, birds and nature.
The building employs a number of sustainable strategies, from material choices to the use of natural light, geothermal heating and cooling, and recycled rainwater. Learn more »
The Education Center is a net-zero energy building located within Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods, which means the building aims to produce as much energy as it consumes each year. Learn more »