Mallard Lake in Hanover Park, Illinois Eases the Mind with Fantastic Lake Views

Mallard Lake in Hanover Park, Illinois Eases the Mind with Fantastic Lake Views

On a recent summer day, we savored sweeping lake views and a calm yet sunny day ambiance at Mallard Lake Forest Preserve in Hanover Park, Illinois. The spectacular views ignited us with the nature uplift that we needed. The lake easily captivated and charmed us with beauty.

Boating on a summer day on tranquil Mallard Lake.

We parked a bit away from the lake itself and walked through a green-filled woodland towards the lake. We appreciated the shade of the trees and the call of birds as we walked towards the lake.

Surrounded by green of the woodlands as we make our way towards the lake.

The lake soon emerged in front of us beckoning us to hike around the lake maximizing our time of nature zen.

Wetlands invite the chance to observe more wildlife.

A bridge crosses the lake affording additional vantage points and a unique experience of walking right through the middle of the lake. As we walked across the bridge and began the trail around the lake, we noticed fishermen benefiting from quiet little alcoves around the lake.

Wandering over the bridge across Mallard Lake.

Mallard Lake Forest Preserve invites a variety of nature activities including hiking, birding, kayaking, picnicking, fishing and more. Tranquil spots for a repose to reflect also can be enjoyed at Mallard Lake. We certainly savored in pausing at moments to soak in nature.

A river meanders through Mallard Lake Forest Preserve.

We admired so many spectacular views representative of a number of ecosystems including wetlands, woodlands and fields. Mallard Lake is a 85-acre lake created in the 1950's. Gravel and peat were mined from the area in the 1950's. A landfill existed in the preserve from 1974-1999.

Wildflowers adding a pop of color.

Mallard Lake connects to Hawk Hollow Forest Preserve adding another 1,172-acres of nature to explore. We have not explored Hawk Hollow Forest Preserve yet but are looking forward to a new adventure. When I visit, I will need to stop by Mallard Lake to once again savor the views!

Admiring wetlands at Mallard Lake Forest Preserve.