Lake Forest hikers can walk straight into local history starting Saturday, Aug. 15, when the Lake County Forest Preserves launches its 28th annual Hike Lake County program with a new America's 250th anniversary theme.
The free program features 12 designated trails across the county, each chosen for its connection to local history. Historical panels along the routes highlight the people, places and events that shaped Lake County. Hikers who complete at least seven trails between Aug. 15 and Nov. 30 earn a free commemorative bald eagle medallion.
Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve in Lake Forest is one of the 12 trails on this year's list. The 1.1-mile route passes through a preserve that offers one of the few free public access points to Lake Michigan in Lake County, according to the Lake County Forest Preserves. The Hutchinson Trail runs from Sheridan Road along Hutchinson Ravine to the lake, with interpretive exhibits and viewing stations along the way.
The site's history runs deep. The 632-acre fort opened in 1888 after Chicago business leaders, including Marshall Field, petitioned the Secretary of War for a military installation following the 1886 Haymarket Riot. Architects Holabird and Roche designed the buildings. Fort Sheridan earned National Historic Landmark status in 1982 and was decommissioned in 1993.
Captain Daniel Wright Woods in Mettawa, a 2.5-mile trail that counts as two toward the seven-trail minimum, is another nearby option for Lake Forest and Lake Bluff residents.
How to participate
The program is entirely free. Participants can download a Travel Log through the program page, available in English and Spanish. One log covers up to five people, with a limit of two logs per address. All trails must be completed on foot; bicycling and horseback riding do not qualify.
Dogs are welcome on dog-friendly trails. Owners can add up to three dogs' names to their Travel Log to receive free commemorative collar tags. Independence Grove in Libertyville does not allow dogs.
Completed logs must be submitted online by Thursday, Dec. 31, or mailed with a self-addressed stamped envelope to the Lake County Forest Preserves General Offices at 1899 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville, IL 60048. Processing takes seven to 14 business days.
Guided hikes led by Forest Preserves educators will be offered on select dates during the program, with registration required. The full guided hike schedule has not yet been posted at lcfpd.org.
