Swallow Cliff Woods-South — Attraction in Palos Township

This area is popular for a reason. The trails are beautiful and well kept. Ups and down on slight hills. A few bridges. Lots of creeks. I saw a gorgeous horse with its rider. Oh and a blue Jay! That was cool. When it's humid or after a rain just be prepared for mosquitoes. Like others said, some days there's more horse poop then others but usually not bothersome. Not too many bikes, mostly joggers and walkers.

The stairs. The limestone stairs. Back in the day I'd kill those stairs. Now I almost died going up only once. But that's the really cool thing about the stairs - everyone is pushing themselves for whatever personal goals they're on and there's never any judging. It's like an unspoken respect and understanding. They are a wonderful exercise hot spot.

So there's really something here for everyone. You can stick to the stairs for an intense workout or enjoy the trails for a walk (or jog). Oh and keep in mind, Dogs allowed on the trails but not on the stairs.

Plenty of parking in the north lot (off rt 83) plus they recently added a cafe Pavillion- though I'm unsure of the hours. There are 2 Porta John's at the lot as well that are always well kept. My small bladder is grateful for that.

Highly recommend these trails at...

A great place to exercise, via stairs. Severely disappointing regarding winter recreation. This seems to be a consensus with the regulars. One woman said kids were turned away after our first good snow a few days ago. While signage indicates a sledding hill, it never seems to be open to the public as such. I was turned away abruptly for snowboarding. I was alone on the hill but was told I was a liability. The sign clearly states "at visitor's own risk." Isn't that enough to clear liabilities? If not, make people sign waivers or STOP CALLING IT A SLEDDING HILL! What's next, closing the stairs for fear of someone twisting an ankle!? I spoke with the employees and someone in a Forest Preserve truck about the sign. The sign states ”Snowboarding is allowed on designated hill only." However, that is the only hill there! The employees themselves were even confused over the wording! The person in the truck stated the snowboarding hill is in (drum roll) Calumet. How would anybody know that!? Moreso, why would anyone drive all the way to Calumet when we have a perfectly fine sledding hill right here!? It is ludicrous and a shame that such a beautiful spot be overregulated...

10/10 recommend these trails and the stairs!

Beautiful any time of year and so many options for short and long walks/runs/bike rides.

Depending on your child(ren) and stroller, it's definitely an option to use it though the ride is bumpy and sometimes muddy. Also very hilly, so be sure to bring a stroller strap for safety.

I've been here for personal fitness, too. The stairs are a good strength and cardio option for someone who likes being active outdoors. They are partially shaded, depending on the time of year and day, but be sure to bring plenty of water!

If you're looking for an option for your baby, I've brought mine here in a carrier and backpack and we've wandered the trails for hours (and took a turn or two on the stairs). It takes some planning, but again, be sure to bring plenty of water as the hills can bring on a good sweat.

Many trails also allow...