Hidden Lake Forest Preserve — Attraction in Downers Grove

Beautiful forest preserve with two lake loop trails nestled against the Morton Arboretum and rt. 53. This preserve features a big open lake, Round Meadow Lake, with a trail that loops around. The area is open for great views and easy fishing access. Trail is gravel and very level and well maintained. The second lake, Eagle lake, is much more wooded and shady but also has a gravel loop trail. It is a good spot for birdwatching due to a lot of undergrowth and proximity to water. In between the two lakes is a beautiful old bridge from the 1870s which is well worth a visit. The forest preserve is accessed from a single entrance across from the WalMart and features two parking areas, one close the the picnic pavilion and restrooms and another near the informational sign and bridge. Overall this is a great forest preserve that offers a wide variety of scenery for its size...

Restrooms on site, always a plus! Nice walking paths. Some areas are asphalt some are very fine gravel, easy to walk on and less hot on your doggies paws 🐾.

Random benches along the paths to take a quick rest.

Depending on the path you choose, it may have less tree cover. If you bring your doggos out, make sure you look at the Google map in the terrain version to see which path has more tree cover. The route I chose was pretty open and the pups were alittle too hot 🥵 So now I know for next time.

This is a good spot for biking, walking, or running. I do not recommend roller blading as the entirety of the path is a mix between asphalt and gravel.

There are also trash and recycle bins near the parking lot !

Overall, a nice path for the doggies, I...

I love this place! It's such a nice place to walk and relax. I have lived in Glen Ellyn for almost 10 years and I only started going here recently. The main path around the lake is very nice and breezy. Wear a hat though and some sunscreen because you get direct sunlight most of the day. There is another section, the "hidden" lake section that I love. I put my daughter in her wagon and we just stroll. Depending on the day, it can be busy with people, but not crowded. I wish there was a playground cause my daughter is 3 and doesn't really like going to parks with no playground and complains if we go too often, but that's her opinion lolz. All in all, try it out...