Busse Woods — Attraction in Elk Grove Township

Bussey Woods - A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Chicago

Bussey Woods, part of the Ned Brown Forest Preserve, is truly one of the most remarkable outdoor retreats in the Chicago area. This sprawling, 3,558-acre preserve offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature's tranquility while still being conveniently close to downtown Chicago.

One of the standout features of Bussey Woods is its extensive network of trails. The 11-mile paved trail loop is ideal for biking, jogging, and walking. It's well-maintained and provides a scenic route through diverse landscapes, including dense woodlands, open meadows, and serene lakesides. Along the way, you'll find plenty of benches and rest areas where you can take a break, enjoy a snack, and soak in the beautiful surroundings.

For those who enjoy water activities, Bussey Woods doesn't disappoint. Busse Lake, a 457-acre body of water, is a haven for fishing, boating, and bird-watching enthusiasts. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish species, making it a popular spot for anglers. You can rent rowboats, canoes, and kayaks from the nearby rental facility, adding an extra layer of fun to your visit. The tranquil waters also provide a perfect backdrop for observing a diverse array of bird species, including herons, egrets, and even the occasional bald eagle.

Nature lovers will appreciate the rich biodiversity that Bussey Woods supports. The preserve is home to a wide range of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. The forested areas are especially beautiful during the fall, when the foliage transforms into a stunning tapestry of red, orange, and yellow hues. In spring and summer, the wildflowers add vibrant colors to the meadows, making every visit unique and picturesque.

Families will find Bussey Woods to be an excellent destination for a day out. There are several picnic areas equipped with tables, grills, and shelters. These spots are perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or just a simple family picnic. The spacious fields also offer plenty of room for kids to run around and play, making it a great place to create lasting memories.

Another significant feature of Bussey Woods is the Elk Pasture. This fenced area is home to a small herd of elk, providing a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close. The viewing areas are well-designed, offering clear sightlines while ensuring the safety and comfort of the elk.

For those interested in educational experiences, the Busse Woods Nature Center is a must-visit. The center offers a variety of exhibits on the local flora and fauna, as well as educational programs and guided tours that provide deeper insights into the natural history of the area. It's a fantastic resource for both children and adults looking to learn more about the environment.

Bussey Woods is also very accessible, with ample parking available at multiple entrances. The facilities, including restrooms and picnic shelters, are well-maintained and clean, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone. The preserve is open year-round, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of each season.

In conclusion, Bussey Woods is a gem within the Chicago metropolitan area. Whether you're looking for a place to exercise, relax, learn, or simply enjoy the outdoors, this forest preserve has something for everyone. The combination of well-maintained trails, diverse wildlife, beautiful scenery, and excellent facilities makes Bussey Woods a top choice for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. I highly recommend visiting this incredible preserve; it's a perfect example of how natural beauty and urban life can coexist...

A wonderful track with plenty of smaller trails to explore. Great for a long walk, bike, Rollerblade, or other outdoor activities. Is definitely very popular on the weekends and can get a little crowded if you plan to bike or blade keep that in mind. A lot to do in this 7 mile loop with huge spaces for wildlife, with plenty of spots for cookouts and parties. Though I haven't rented a spot here I have done so with other park districts and it very straight forward. The bathrooms as with most public park spaces are going to be somewhat dicey but the facilities here seem to be pretty well maintained as well as the grounds themselves. However if you do see any litter on your way through please 🙏 pick it up and dispose of it in the many available bins throughout. This is a wonderful place and such a great location between the towns, where everyone can take a break and just enjoy nature.

Also be sure to check out the elk preserve area located on Arlington heights rd and Higgins, very pretty animals who are not shy with people, but as the signs clearly indicate DO NOT FEED THEM they are well taken care of by...

I though this would be a nice place to hang out and relax for a bit but apperanly cops will think you have drugs or alcohol on you and will hassle you until they can extract some sort of ticket. I was parked minding my own business trying to unwind and do a little meditation after a stressful day at work instead of dealing with the traffic on 290 expressway during rush hour. I was not doing anything illegal or had anything on me after they searched me and had 2 squad cars surround me so I couldn't leave. Finally after about 30 minutes of questioning on what I was doing here they made me roll up my windows and decided that the tints on my car were too dark and wrote me up a ticket for that. I sure there are more important things they could be doing but yet this is what happens these days when someone is just trying to hang out there. I get it that they are doing their job collecting money for Cook county but why not patrol Higgins and get the people that speed and do bad lane changes with out a signal or randomly pull out in front of traffic that is moving faster. I see this every day on Higgins. Be cautious...