Rocky Winter Amble at Glenwood Park Forest Preserve in Batavia, Illinois

 

Glenwood Park Forest Preserve in Batavia, Illinois proves that sometimes the smallest forest preserves are the best. While only about 40 acres, Glenwood Park Forest Preserve treats to some very beautiful views of the Fox River where you may see quite a few water birds like we did during our recent visit. 

Layers of rock frame a creek at Glenwood Park Forest Preserve.

Upon embarking on the trail, we immediately enjoyed stopping at a creek that runs through the preserve into the Fox River. The creek shores display nature-sculpted layers of rock. Such a tranquil and picturesque moment! It is often easy to forget that trails in northern Illinois can have lovely rocky features. Glenwood Park Forest Preserve has them magnificently on display!

Ducks gathered near one of the small islands in the Fox River at Glenwood Park Forest Preserve.

Further along the trail, we noted where a broken dam and rocks create interesting rapids and ripples in the river. Nearby, little islands fan out providing spots where ducks love to gather.

Rapids along the Fox River add some intrigue to the scenery.

Along the trail, we discovered little footpaths that yielded better views of the river and the water birds which included mallard ducks, goldeneye ducks, and Canada geese. The birds truly enjoyed this little area that is away from some of the busier preserves.

The natural trail beckoned us forward through the winter woodlands.

We enjoyed the gentle roll to the natural trail and crossing a meandering stream here and there. The preserve packs in quite a range of nature experiences despite its size. Of course, who does not admire the Fox River views? But, the rocky landscape and woodlands featuring Chinkapin Oak and White Oak add extra interest. Really just such a spectacular preserve. We discovered woodpeckers, a range of fungi, moss, animal tracks and more.

Snow coats the banks of the Fox River.

Glenwood Park Forest Preserve is accessible from the Fox River Trail and near a junction with the Illinois Prairie Path. The preserve sports a sizable picnic area and a couple of pavilions. For more nature exploring, wander to nearby Lippold Park and Red Oak Nature Center. We visited on a pretty cold day, so a short trail was just what we need to get a little fresh air in winter!