The Top 20 Attractions around Des Plaines
There are plenty of places to see and visit around Des Plaines. Whether you love hiking or cycling, Des Plaines is a region where 20
hidden gems are waiting to …
hidden gems are waiting to …
Last updated: September 22, 2025
Ned Brown Forest Preserve, also known as the Busse Woods, is a 3,558-acre preserve with almost 13 miles of paved trails to ride. This park has an elk pasture and is one of the most popular parks in the state.
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Dam No.1 Woods is a great spot to rest and recharge along the Des Plaines River Trail. With two sheltered picnic groves, it’s an ideal place for a lunch break. …
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The North Branch Trail is a 20-mile paved trail that follows the North Branch of the Chicago River. The trail winds through forests and fields, so keep your eye out for wildlife, especially deer.
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Hiking, running, and biking are popular activities in this area, with the well-known North Branch Trail running through and providing both paved and unpaved trails to enjoy. The North Branch …
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A small rocky dam separates the North Pool and the Main Pool of Busse Lake from each other. The paved (and striped) Busse Woods Bicycle Trail (BWBT) passes directly between …
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