The Top 14 Lakes around Lake Forest
Looking to visit the best lakes around Lake Forest? After all, there’s nothing better than the serenity of the lakeshore — or a quick dip when the weather’s warm. So, browse our list of Lake Forest’s top lakes below as recommended by the komoot community, and experience more on your next adventure!
Last updated: October 18, 2025
Des Plaines River Trail – Half Day Forest Preserve
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
The Des Plaines River Trail stretches over 56 miles along the Des Plaines River, offering a scenic natural escape through Lake and Cook Counties, just outside Chicago. This multi-use trail …
Tip by
Chicago Botanic Garden
Highlight • Natural
If you're looking for a scenic route to explore on your bike, the North Branch Trail detour through the Chicago Botanic Gardens' free area is an absolute must-see. With smooth …
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds
Highlight • Lake
Here you will find a gorgeous network of flat, crushed gravel trails that connect with the Des Plaines River Trail and other nearby preserves. The trails take you around scenic …
Tip by
Independence Grove Lake
Highlight • Lake
There are more than 7 miles of trails in this preserve, and if you didn't bring your bike, you can rent one. Other activity options include fishing, boating, and rocking out to live concerts. There's even a beer garden.
Tip by
Pond and Bridge at Captain Daniel Wright Woods Preserve
Highlight • Lake
This forest preserve offers a quiet escape from the city with a good selection of trails. All the trails are well marked and well maintained. You can also connect to the Des Plains River Trail to explore further afield.
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Lake Forest.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Other adventures around Lake Forest
Most popular attractions around Lake Forest
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures around London and beyond.
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Lake Forest? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
LibertyvilleMundeleinHawthorn WoodsDeerfieldVernon HillsLong GroveKildeerGrayslakeIndian CreekForest LakeRound LakeVoloHighland ParkRound Lake ParkHainesvilleBannockburnWaucondaRiverwoodsMettawaLincolnshireLake BarringtonWaukeganLake ZurichGurneeBuffalo GroveGreen OaksPort BarringtonDeer ParkNorth ChicagoHighwoodKnollwoodLake BluffGages LakeNorth BarringtonThird LakeTower LakesGrandwood ParkLindenhurstFox LakeLong LakeWadsworth
Get ready to conquer new peaks
Sign up for Free