More than five miles of trails connect the property from Park Avenue to Half Day Road and to the major features of the park, including picnic areas, gardens, overlooks, Park Fitness and Highland Park Golf Learning Center/River’s Edge Adventure Golf.  

Bikes are welcome on The Preserve trails but note that pedestrians have the Right of Way. Due to their historic use as golf cart paths, some trails can be narrow and winding.  Please follow these simple rules from the National Park Service when riding your bike at The Preserve, including on the designated City bike trail that runs along the east side of the property, connecting Park Avenue West and Half Day Road. 

• Be prepared to slow down or stop when approaching other trail users.
• Ride single file to the right.
• Announce yourself when passing other users from behind.
• Always pass on the left of pedestrians.
• Control your speed at all times, especially around curves.

Special amenities at The Preserve provide a place to stop and learn about the nature around you. Some take advantage of former golf features in creative ways, all use materials inspired by our community heritage of working with nature in the landscape. Interpretive signs help you learn about the creatures and plant communities that call The Preserve home.

• Ponds & Wetland Overlooks: Get a fresh perspective on the benefits of water and wetlands.
• Nature Maze: An adventure with a purpose—to provide food and habitat for birds.
• Pollinator Garden: Learn about the home of Illinois pollinators and how you can help.
• Sand Play Area: Dig in the sand like a turtle and learn about their nesting habits.
• Greens: Explore the fun features of our green spaces. Discover hills to roll down, logs to climb, puddles to explore and wildlife to watch.

Get active with lawn spaces for play, picnics, programs, and events.

Come picnic on the greens! Small groups are welcome to throw down a blanket or take advantage of picnic tables throughout the park. There are currently three designated picnic areas available for rental for larger groups or special events.

For more information, call 847.831.3810. 

More than 117 species of birds have been identified at The Preserve.  Ponds on the property provide a home for a diverse community of wetland-dependent birds including Kingfisher, Great Blue Heron, and Green Heron. Red-headed Woodpeckers, a species of concern in Illinois, make homes in the woodlands around the property. Ground-nesting birds such as the American Woodcock and Killdeer have taken up residence near former sand traps!

Dogs must be on a leash at all times, and you must pick up after them. Doggie bags and waste receptacles are located throughout the park. To protect sensitive habitats and wildlife, please stick to trails and green grass areas.  

Fishing is allowed in designated areas around the North Pond including the overlook on the east shoreline. Catch and release only. No swimming is allowed.