Late Fall Amble at Bode Lake

Late Fall Amble Soaking in Amber Views and Lake Serenity at Bode Lake in Hoffman Estates, Illinois

Fantastic fall weather encouraged us to hike through new preserves this fall. One glorious day, we ventured to Bode Lake for the first time. While not overly busy, the preserve was certainly abuzz with fellow nature lovers enjoying the exceptional weather.

Hiking trail at Bode Lake perfectly framed by the rusts of fall leaves and grasses.

Golden Hues and the Crackle of Leaves as We Hiked:

We visited Bode Lake just after the leaves had mostly fallen on an unusually warm November day. The golden late fall sun really warmed the amber and rusty hues of the dry leaves and grasses of the autumn forest. We reveled in a treelined hike, crunchy leaves at our feet as we ambled towards the lake.

A blaze of red leaves really stands out in the late fall preserve.

Pausing in different sections, we viewed the hues of some of the smaller bushes, plants and grasses of the preserve. Brilliant berries dotted in spots. Fall presents the perfect time to observe nature treasures not always easily seen in more foliage filled months including nests, fungus, shapes of trees, decomposing trees and more. This year, I have been particularly enamored with the shapes of fallen trees resting in often novel positions awaiting decomposition. 

Tranquil Bode Lake sets the mind at ease.

Admiring the Tranquility of Bode Lake

As we rounded towards the lake, I was surprised by paths that wove around and in between sections of the body of water. Upon reaching Bode Lake, we took a moment just to marvel at the lake and the surroundings while scouting for waterfowl. A number of families and furry friends joined us in enjoyment of the lake. We eventually spotted a Great Blue Heron in the reeds as well as ducks near the shore.

Bode Lake slowly ripples to shore.

After we began our return from the lake, we spotted a segment of a fallen tree with an interesting fungus on it. The groves of the tree and edges of the bark contributed to the unique design. This winter, be sure to take a peek in the forests for similar treasures!

Fall reveals natural treasures on the forest floor.

Bode Lake is part of the larger Poplar Creek Trail System in the Arthur L. Janura Forest Preserve. The expansive system welcomes a wealth of nature activities including biking, hiking, walking dogs on-leash, cross-country skiing and picnicking at Bode Lake.