West Branch Forest Preserve, Bartlett, IL

West Branch Forest Preserve spans 2,000 acres in Bartlett, offering residents direct access to 14 miles of marked trails for hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding. The preserve includes three lakes, including the 85-acre Brewster Creek Lake, where visitors can fish, kayak, and observe waterfowl. Picnic shelters, playgrounds, and a dog park are located near the main entrance on Stearns Road. The Paul Douglas Forest Preserve Trail connects West Branch to adjacent open spaces, creating an uninterrupted corridor for longer rides and runs. Native prairies and oak woodlands surround the lakes, providing seasonal color and habitat for deer, fox, and migratory birds. The preserve sits within two miles of Metra’s Milwaukee District West Line, allowing commuters to reach downtown Chicago in under an hour. Nearby retail centers along Army Trail Road supply groceries, pharmacies, and restaurants without leaving Bartlett. These features combine to give homeowners immediate outdoor recreation and convenient daily services.

Biking Paths Boating Canoeing Cross-Country Skiing Fishing Hiking Paths Horseback Riding Kayaking Picnic Area