Looking for the perfect place to stretch your legs in and around Long Grove? Whether you want a stroller-friendly loop, a quiet forest walk, or a charming village stroll, you have great options close to home. This guide highlights the best local trails and paths with parking tips, pet policies, seasonal notes, and neighborhood insights to help you pick your next route. Let’s dive in.
Pick your walk style
- Village sidewalks: Short, paved walks near shops and coffee, easy for quick outings.
- Forest preserves: Natural-surface loops with woodlands, ponds, and wildlife.
- Boardwalks and nature centers: Short, interpretive routes that kids love.
- Regional paved paths: Wide, multi-use routes ideal for strollers and bikes.
Best walking trails near Long Grove
Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve
If you want a close-by nature escape, Buffalo Creek delivers woodland views, ponds, and a peaceful feel without a long drive. Trails are mostly natural surface, so expect some uneven footing in spots. Families enjoy wildlife watching here, but not every route is stroller-friendly. Check the official details and trail map on the Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve page.
- Parking: Preserve lots are typically free and can fill on fair-weather weekends. Arrive early.
- Pets: Dogs are generally allowed on leash. Follow posted rules and pack waste bags.
- Seasonal notes: Spring can be muddy. Ticks and mosquitoes are common in warmer months. Fall colors are excellent. Winters are quiet and scenic.
Independence Grove (Libertyville)
Independence Grove is a favorite for paved, lakeside walking with a larger visitor infrastructure. The lake loop is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, and you will find boardwalks, restrooms, and picnic areas. It is a great year-round choice, especially for families who want amenities. For current information, see the Independence Grove preserve page.
- Parking: Large lots, often busy on weekends. Arrive early in peak seasons.
- Pets: Dogs are commonly allowed on leash in preserves, but verify beach and seasonal restrictions on the site.
- Seasonal notes: Summer brings more recreational traffic. Fall offers beautiful shoreline color.
Volo Bog State Natural Area
For a unique, educational walk, Volo Bog’s boardwalk takes you through a rare bog ecosystem. The interpretive route is short and memorable, and the visitor center adds context for kids. Boardwalk sections can be narrow, so check accessibility notes if you need stroller or wheelchair access. Review hours, programs, and rules on IDNR’s Volo Bog page.
- Parking: State site lot with seasonal hours. Confirm times before you go.
- Pets: Rules can differ from forest preserves. Verify pet policies on the IDNR site.
- Seasonal notes: Bring binoculars and closed shoes. Bug spray helps in warmer months.
Historic Downtown Long Grove sidewalks
Sometimes the best walk is through the heart of town. Historic Long Grove offers paved sidewalks, short loops, and easy access to shops, coffee, and seasonal festivals. It is perfect for daily steps, quick meetups, and a walkable village feel. For parking and village updates, check the Village of Long Grove website and the downtown Long Grove events calendar before festival weekends.
- Parking: Street and village lots vary by event. Expect closures or limits during festivals.
- Pets: Leash laws apply on sidewalks and public spaces. Policies vary for indoor businesses.
- Seasonal notes: Lively in spring through fall with events and markets; peaceful winter strolls.
Other nearby options
Cuba Marsh, Crabtree Nature Center, and other preserves in Lake and nearby counties offer more boardwalks and longer loops within a short drive. To compare surfaces, recent conditions, and user photos, browse TrailLink’s Illinois trails and AllTrails in Illinois along with official preserve pages.
Practical tips for families
Parking basics
- Most preserves and natural areas offer free lots, but weekends and holidays can fill early.
- Check preserve and village pages for special-event closures or maintenance.
- If one lot is full, use another access point shown on preserve maps.
Pet policies
- Forest preserves generally allow dogs on leash. Keep a leash, waste bags, and water on hand.
- State natural areas can have different rules. Verify before visiting nature centers or beaches.
Strollers and accessibility
- Best for wheels: Paved loops at Independence Grove and village sidewalks.
- Variable access: Boardwalks can be narrow or include steps. Confirm details before you go.
- Rugged routes: Natural-surface forest trails can be uneven or muddy after rain.
Seasonal safety
- Spring: Expect mud and tick activity. Wear long sleeves and check kids and pets after walks.
- Summer: Bring water, sun protection, and bug spray for wetland areas.
- Fall: Peak color runs late September through October and attracts crowds.
- Winter: Many trails stay open. Do not walk on frozen ponds. Some sites may groom ski loops when snow allows.
Neighborhood snapshots for easy access
Historic Village Center
- Walk type: Sidewalks and short village loops near shops and dining.
- Lifestyle: Daily errands on foot and frequent community events.
- Tradeoffs: Immediate walkability with periodic festival street closures.
Near Buffalo Creek entrances
- Walk type: Quick access to natural-surface woodland trails and ponds.
- Lifestyle: Regular nature hikes and quiet, scenic walks.
- Tradeoffs: Less paved infrastructure than a village setting.
East and south Long Grove edge (toward Libertyville corridor)
- Walk type: Faster reach to paved lakeside loops and larger park amenities.
- Lifestyle: Stroller-friendly walks with restrooms and picnic areas.
- Tradeoffs: Short drive to preserves rather than a true in-town stroll.
Before you go: quick checklist
- Check official pages for parking, hours, and any closures.
- Verify pet rules, especially for beaches and nature centers.
- Pack water, sunscreen, and bug repellent in warmer months.
- Wear closed-toe shoes; consider a carrier for uneven trails.
- Bring extra layers in fall and winter. Avoid walking on ice.
Ready to explore homes near the trails?
If easy access to great walks is part of your home search, let a local expert guide you to the right neighborhood fit. Reach out to Tami Hamilton to compare areas, tour nearby listings, and plan your next move.
FAQs
Are Long Grove-area trails stroller-friendly?
- Village sidewalks and the paved lake loop at Independence Grove are generally stroller-friendly. Natural-surface forest preserve trails can be uneven or muddy, so check the preserve map and surface descriptions first.
Can I bring my dog on these walks?
- Many Lake County Forest Preserves allow dogs on leash, while state natural areas may have different rules. Always verify the specific site and carry waste bags and water.
Is parking free at the preserves?
- Many preserve lots are free, but they can fill quickly on weekends and during fall color. Check the official preserve page for lot locations and any event-related changes.
When is fall color at its best?
- Peak color usually arrives in late September through October in northern Illinois, but timing varies by year. Plan for busy weekend crowds during peak foliage.
What should families watch for on the trails?
- Watch for ticks in spring and summer, uneven terrain on natural-surface paths, and open water near ponds and lakes. Bring water, wear proper footwear, and supervise young children near water.
