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Chicago Sun-Times
Chicago Sun-Times
National
Zachary Nauth | WBEZ

20 trails where Chicago-area hikers can enjoy nature, peace before winter sets in

Chicago Illinois Jason King Utica
The largest roadless area — and most remote place — in Cook County: Cap Sauers Holding, a forested, certified nature preserve within the Sag Valley Trail System. (Cook County Forest Preserve District)

It’s not “purple mountains majesty” for hiking, Jason King knows. But Illinois, Indiana and southern Wisconsin offer trails that are free, close, not congested, and they offer a solace and beauty all their own.

“I love Illinois,” says King, who teaches geography at Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills. “I’ve lived here all my life. If you like simplicity, if you like the feel of the wind blowing through the trees … there’s no place better.”

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