McKinley Woods

The Upland Trail entrance in McKinley Woods is an exceptional starting point for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. As I arrived at the trailhead, I was impressed by the wealth of information available, providing insights into the history and significance of the area. This educational aspect adds depth to the hiking experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the surroundings even more.

One of the standout features of the Upland Trail entrance is the presence of a well-maintained restroom facility. This convenience is often a welcome sight for hikers, ensuring that you can begin your adventure with comfort and ease.

The implementation of a weather shelter equipped with picnic tables and barbecues is another thoughtful addition. This feature enhances the overall trail experience, as it allows visitors to take a break, indulge in a delicious meal, and connect with fellow hikers. Whether you're on a solo hike or a family outing, these amenities cater to various needs, making the Upland Trail entrance an excellent destination for all.

The trail itself is a delight to explore, with varying levels of difficulty that cater to different hiking preferences. As I meandered through the woods, I was treated to breathtaking views of nature at its finest. The lush vegetation, towering trees, and occasional glimpses of wildlife make each step a captivating experience.

For those seeking a peaceful and serene escape into nature, the Upland Trail entrance in McKinley Woods is a must-visit destination. The combination of informative exhibits, practical facilities, and the beauty of the trail ensures a memorable outing. Whether you're an avid hiker or a novice explorer, this trail entrance promises an immersive and enriching journey through the wonders of nature.

Beautiful preserve with trails at different difficulty levels. Take a stroll along the water or an elevated hike in the woods. Lots of flowers, animals, and birds.

Wonderful dirt trail loops for hiking. Nice hills to get your heart pumping. Got about 20 feet from 2 doe and also saw plenty of chipmunks, blue jays, herons, and squirrels. I heard a woodpecker in the distance. I’ve been here 2 days in a row and if it weren’t for my kid coming down with the flu, I’d be back again tomorrow! If hiking is your passion, you’ll love these trails, just wish they were double in length, as they are kind of shorter trails.

Beautiful with all the redbud trees blooming! Can go off-path into the woods on a dirt path for elevation gain and lovely scenery.

Beautiful place!!! Nice gravel trails for walking and maybe biking with a mountain bike, not a road bike since as I said they are mostly gravel. A few overlooks and fishing spots but not much cover for a rainy day. We caught just a small rock bass and some baby bluegill/other similar sunfish fishing there, but I will likely return as the environment is peaceful and relaxing 😊 Might be good for mushroom hunters too! I'm very new to mushroom hunting so I don't know much about it but I included my pics of one set of mushrooms (I was mainly there fishing this time).

Great place to hike. If you go in the fall. You pretty much will have the whole place to yourself like I did! The boys had a great time exploring off the beaten path. Venture into the woods

Pretty clean, wide trails. Lots of wildlife to see! A great place to walk your dog or take a bike ride. I always enjoy my walks here.

I love it here. It's peaceful. Rarely see anyone so I feel like it's all mine. Abundant wildlife unmolested by human traffic. My secret place when I have to think.

My favorite local place to hike. Lots of great trails ranging from easy to difficult, I've traversed them all!

Nice location with some good views

Great trails, well maintained, clean bathrooms, lots of wildflowers. Trail guess asking the I&M Canal.

My families little getaway in our own backyard so many trails to explore and beautiful scenery.

Deserves more than 5 stars for how well kept this is. If you ever find yourself pondering about where to head got short walks with paved trails. This is must visit. The park office has amazing fish collection. Bird feeding and watering station view point helps you observe them without disturbing their lives.

Beautiful and peaceful. Very clean. Out houses very clean. Nice picnic tables and walking and bike paths. Good fishing spots. Handicapped parking and paths.

Awesome spot to go for a walk, sit by the water and people watch or just enjoy the outdoors.

The fall colors along the river were so pretty..lots of places to stop and rest

We love this area! There are plenty of interesting trails and you can hop on the I&M canal trail as well. They have camping here which is great. You do get some barges which are neat but coupled with some large houses up on the hills they shatter the otherwise peaceful secluded experience that was building up.

Beautiful scenery and nice trails to explore

Awesome wooded hike! One of the best we've found in Chicagoland area so far. Some of the little trail branches can be dead ends though. Visually beautiful, especially in fall with the river.

Nice well kept park. It is a bit out of the way but a great place to take your family on a picnic.