Mather Woods Forest Preserve, Plainfield, IL

Mather Woods Forest Preserve in Plainfield, Illinois, offers residents direct access to 255 acres of preserved woodland and wetland habitat. The preserve features a 2.5-mile crushed limestone trail that loops through mature oak-hickory forest, past a cattail marsh, and along Lily Cache Creek. Hikers, runners, and cyclists use the trail year-round, while anglers fish the creek for smallmouth bass and sunfish. A 0.3-mile accessible boardwalk provides an elevated view of the wetland and its seasonal waterfowl. Picnic tables and a shelter are located near the main parking area off 135th Street, and a smaller lot on Renwick Road serves trail users entering from the east. The preserve sits less than three miles from downtown Plainfield’s shops and restaurants and is adjacent to the DuPage River, giving residents additional paddling and fishing options within a short drive.

Hiking Paths Picnic Areas Restrooms Shelter Trails