Best Chicago Hiking in April, 2021

April in Chicago is pretty wet. Plants are just starting to sprout and the temperature is unpredictable. In our opinion, the best hikes in and around Chicago during the month of April are ones with flexibility and without mud. We have compiled a diverse selection for this month. We hope you’ll enjoy these picks.

North: Fort Sheridan, IL

Fort Sheridan is a nice hike almost any time of the year. The trails are grass and gravel and tend to stay dry. Fort Sheridan in April can provide fantastic aroma therapy if you get a warm day with a lake breeze; you’ll smell spring. Visit our full story here: Fort Sheridan.

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Northwest: Veteran Acres & Sterne’s Woods, IL

There are two parks, Veteran Acres and also Sterne’s Woods. Hike the 3.5 mile loop starting at the Nature Center. The wetland here is known as a Fen. Fen’s are similar to Bogs, in that they are peat producing wetlands. Fens are less acidic and therefore produce and support more natural diversity. Hike trails through natural areas including Sterne’s Woods and Wingate Prairie, an Illinois Nature Preserve. McHenry County Conservation District’s Prairie Trail also winds through Veteran Acres. Read our full story on Veteran Acres and Sterne’s Woods.

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Southwest: Matthiessen State Park, IL

Canyons, streams, prairie and forest combine to delight visitors at Matthiessen State Park. Located near Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen is a paradise for those interested in geology and/or recreation. Visitors can expect to see beautiful rock formations in addition to unusual and abundant vegetation and wildlife. All of this, along with park and picnic facilities, make Matthiessen State Park a popular choice for a day hike. Today’s “figure 8” hike at Matthiessen was 4.5 miles, an ideal length for 2-3 hours of hiking enjoyment. Read our complete story on Matthiessen State Park.

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South: Midewin Tallgrass Prairie, IL

One of our first recorded hikes last summer was at Midewin Tallgrass Prairie. It was hot and there is little shelter, so April seems like a better month to enjoy this out and back hike. We wanted to see the ammunition bunkers of the old Joliet Arsenal. These bunkers are located on the north-east side of the park which is not the normal tourist area. If you get the chance, near the visitor center, check out the herd of Bison. Sometimes they are hiding and can be hard to see, but don’t miss them if you have time. More about Midewin Tallgrass Prairie.

Bonus South: Joliet Iron Works, IL

The Joliet Iron Works hike is more about the history of Chicago than natural surroundings. This is a great hike for a gloomy day when you need to get out. There is no shelter and few trees to see bloom; however, if you want to learn something about Chicago’s melting pot (no pun intended) head on down to Joliet. To read more visit our story about the Joliet Iron Works.

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