A bird sitting on a nest of eggs.

Hiking Near Wheaton, Illinois

Shorter Routes icon

Shorter Routes

These hikes keep it under 5 miles and climb less than 1,500 feet, making them ideal for quicker outings or lower-key days. Perfect for a morning stretch, a casual afternoon, or getting outside without committing to a big push. Don’t let the stats fool you — many still pack in great views and rewarding moments.

Morton Arboretum Loop

Hike Route

Morton Arboretum Loop

Birding
easy
4.39 mi
+158 ft
Galloping Hill Wildlife Loop

Hike Route

Galloping Hill Wildlife Loop

Birding
easy
0.44 mi
+14 ft
Montrose Park Beach Tour

Hike Route

Montrose Park Beach Tour

Dogs Allowed
moderate
4.03 mi
+32 ft
Montrose Bird Sanctuary (The Magic Hedge)

Hike Route

Montrose Bird Sanctuary (The Magic Hedge)

Birding
easy
0.51 mi
+0 ft
Hollows Conservation Area

Hike Route

Hollows Conservation Area

Birding
moderate
3.43 mi
+139 ft
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Adventurous Routes

These routes go beyond 10 miles and are built for days when you want to cover more ground and push a little deeper. Expect longer distances, more effort, and bigger payoffs — whether that’s remote terrain, summit views, or a full-day challenge. Ideal for hikers looking to go farther and stay out longer.

The Chicago Outerbelt Route

Hike Route

The Chicago Outerbelt Route

Birding
moderate
200.25 mi
+2,147 ft
Palos West Side Tour

Hike Route

Palos West Side Tour

Birding
moderate
11.59 mi
+747 ft
Chicago Lakefront Trail

Hike Route

Chicago Lakefront Trail

Family Friendly
easy
18.44 mi
+27 ft

Other Nearby Routes

Not finding what you're looking for? These additional nearby hikes offer more ways to get outside and explore the area. With a mix of lengths, difficulty levels, and terrain, you're likely to find something that fits your plans for the day. And remember, you can always use the onX Route Builder to create your own adventure from scratch.

Waterfall Glen Main Trail

Hike Route

Waterfall Glen Main Trail

Birding
moderate
9.51 mi
+372 ft
Bullfrog Loop

Hike Route

Bullfrog Loop

Birding
strenuous
6.87 mi
+454 ft
Sag Valley Main Trail

Hike Route

Sag Valley Main Trail

Birding
moderate
8.26 mi
+327 ft
Deer Grove Forest Loop

Hike Route

Deer Grove Forest Loop

Birding
moderate
9.57 mi
+266 ft
The 606 (Bloomingdale Trail)

Hike Route

The 606 (Bloomingdale Trail)

Family Friendly
easy
5.47 mi
+291 ft
Cuba Marsh Tour

Hike Route

Cuba Marsh Tour

Birding
moderate
5.33 mi
+81 ft