West DuPage Woods Forest Preserve treated us with gentle hiking trails through woodlands, wetlands and prairie along the West Branch DuPage River. We have completed many Chicago area hiking trails but still continually find new natural treasures like West DuPage Woods.
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| A paved trail winds through the woodlands twinkling with green and yellow hues as sunlight filters its way through the trees at West DuPage Woods. |
Embarking on the preserve's trails during a particularly hot summer day, we were relieved to hike under the shade of woodlands for a stretch. On brilliant summer days, the sun's golden rays dance through leaves fluttering in the window expressing such joy. I love to watch for different patterns created by the sunlight that filters through. The summer sun sure delighted us during our hike!
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| The West Branch DuPage River meanders by on a brilliant summer day framed by pink flowers and green foliage. |
Soon, we spotted the West Branch DuPage River through a few breaks in the full summer foliage. Gentle footpaths brought us down to the meandering river. Just a lovely view!
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| A gentle gravel footpath brought us down the the river. |
While hiking, we noted that the trails are well marked at junctions. With adequate marking, you are able to navigate the trails easily and adjust your hiking adventure accordingly. Trails were a blend of paved, gravel, and mowed. Although some rolling traills were present, the overall hike was gentle.
The preserve is home to a fen. A fen is a wetland that accumulates peat and is fed by a steady source mineral-rich ground water. Signs like the one pictured above helps visitors understand the nature they are experiencing including fens.
West DuPage Woods actually represents one of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County's oldest preserves. The first section was acquired in the 1920's. The rolling terrain features woodlands, prairie, and wetlands crafting a birding hotspot. We appreciated exploring the unique natural feature of the preserve.
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| A tall bellflower delighted us at West DuPage Woods! |
All in all, the Winfield, Illinois forest preserve features approximately 3 miles of hiking trails. Dogs are permitted so West DuPage Woods provides for a wonderful dog-friendly Chicago area hike.
While hiking, loved pausing to observe birds and wildflowers and trying to identify them. We love this new-to-us forest preserve and appreciated an easy Sunday afternoon in nature.
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