Potawatomi Woods Forest Preserve is one of many Chicago area hiking locations nestled along the Des Plaines River. The local favorite biking and hiking trail, the Des Plaines River Trail, meanders through the preserve. One a recent visit, however, we learned that the preserve is worth a stop and isn't just a pass-through point on the longer trail.
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| A natural trail winds through the woodlands of Potawatomi Woods. |
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| A dryish streambed on the dense woodlands at Potawatomi Woods. |
We started off on the main Des Plaines River Trail passing along the river. Eventually, we discovered an offshoot trail that piqued our interest. Along the natural trail, we spotted more of a hilly landscape sculpted by streams that enter the river in wetter times. However, we are in a drought so it was pretty cool to see the bottom of the stream beds.
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| Lake Potawatomi alive with turtles and frogs on a summer's day. |
Coming out of the woods from our hike, we discovered Lake Potawatomi. The lake was so beautiful under the golden sun of summer. We spotted both turtles and frogs. I was pretty to surprised to find this tucked away little nature respite not too far from my home.
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| A peek at the Des Plaines River in Potawatomi Woods Forest Preserve. |
Within Potawatomi Woods is Camp Dan Beard -- a favorite camping location for local scouts. The newly renovated cabins now offer opportunities for a wonderful nature respite in the Chicago suburbs.
The location of the preserve is quite remarkable because it isn't far from the busyness of the neighboring suburbs. While we could still hear the nearby road, I was surprised by how far away we felt from our daily lives. I will need to keep Potawatomi Woods on my list of preserves to hike in!
Amenities at Potawatomi Woods:
- Hiking
- Biking
- Fishing
- Picnicking
- Cross-Country Skiing
- Model Boating
What was the land originally? I found an old well pump without a handle in the middle of the woods, possibly 100 years old and there are old cement foundations through out.
ReplyDeleteHello! It seems like it was a park/recreational facility many, many years ago with a pool, a merry-go-round and more. I think if you contact the Wheeling Historical Society they will have more info. Interesting observations!
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