Mellody Farm Nature Preserve

Park in the lot off of half day road (see map) to access the trail. Accessible year round, great for all skill levels, and dog-friendly.

Big Bear and Little Bear Lake Loop is a loop trail that takes you by a lake located near Vernon Hills, Illinois.

Starting at Tower Road, the path follows the bridge east to Forest Way Drive. The path mostly follows the road, and the shoreline of the lagoons up to Dundee Road, where you turn back West. Once across the bridge, you then head south on the paved trail back towards Tower Road. The Route is marked as the "Black Loop Trail" and is 4.4 miles total. Parking available on Tower Road and also at the b...

Park in the lot off of Butler Lane (see map) to access the trail. This trail is open year round, is dog-friendly, and offers a variety of activities. In the winter, bring your snow gear!

In a large city, it's nice to be able to find pockets of nature oasis amidst the chaos. It's great to come here with a journal or sketchbook and pass the time while watching the sunset. Fishing is available at this lake and there is a forest preserve that has a couple small trails. 

From the Northwestern University campus, head to the Ryan Center for the Musical Arts to access the southern-most section of The Lakefill. If driving, parking is usually available nearby on Sheridan Road, to the southwest of The Lakefill. Once at the Ryan Center, take the pedestrian bridge on the lake side of the building to access The Lakefill. Follow the path to the right to reach the southea...