Lincoln Marsh Forest Preserve, Wheaton, IL

Lincoln Marsh Forest Preserve spans 149 acres in central Wheaton, offering residents direct access to 4.5 miles of paved and crushed-stone trails that wind through wetlands, prairie, and oak-hickory woodland. The main trailhead at 0N561 Winfield Road provides parking and connects to the Illinois Prairie Path, allowing cyclists and pedestrians to travel east into downtown Wheaton or west toward the Fox River. Two observation decks overlook cattail marshes frequented by waterfowl, while a 30-foot-high observation tower near the center of the preserve offers views of the Chicago skyline on clear days. Restroom facilities and drinking fountains are located at both the Winfield Road and Geneva Road entrances. The preserve is bordered on the north by the Prairie Path and on the south by residential neighborhoods, placing homes within a five-minute walk or bike ride of trail access. Adjacent playing fields at Lincoln Park provide additional open space for organized sports.

Picnic Area