Lifestyle

Go wild. Stay smart. A dozen ways to enjoy a safe day at the forest preserves.

Posted November 02, 2026 3:34 pm

By Kim Mikus, Lake County Forest Preserves

Before you hit the trail, let someone know your route and when you’ll return. (Justine Neslund)

Every adventure in the Lake County Forest Preserves begins with a single step, but the best ones begin with a little preparation.

Whether you’re exploring a woodland trail, paddling down the river or enjoying a picnic, a few smart habits can help ensure your visit is safe, relaxing and memorable.

“We want every visitor — and every potential visitor who might feel intimidated by the unknown — to enjoy the beauty of the Lake County Forest Preserves with confidence,” Lake County Forest Preserves President Jessica Vealitzek said.

“The best memories are made outdoors. By making safety part of every adventure, you can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying nature,” said Jamie Medina, deputy chief at the Forest Preserves.

Be prepared

1. Know before you go. Check the interactive trail map or Expand Your Experience guide, and view the website, lcfpd.org, for preserve information, alerts and sunset closure times. Check weather in advance and choose a route that matches your abilities.

Check your route, weather and preserve alerts before heading out. (Lake County Forest Preserves)

2. Pack like a pro. Bring water, sunscreen, insect repellent and snacks if you’ll be out for a while. A fully charged phone is always a good idea.

3. Share your plans. If you’re alone or exploring a new preserve, let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to return.

4. Prevent crimes of opportunity. Lock your car doors, close your windows and keep purses, wallets, electronics and valuables out of sight, or leave them at home. Put items in your trunk before going to a preserve.

While you’re out

5. Keep your eyes up. Enjoy the scenery but stay alert. If you’re wearing headphones, keep the volume low or turn on transparency mode. If something doesn’t feel right, head to a busier area. Lost or turned around? Stay calm, remain where you are if it’s safe to do so and call for assistance.

6. Stay on the path. Marked trails help protect sensitive habitats while making it easier to find your way. Staying on the trail also reduces your exposure to poison ivy and ticks.

Share the trail courteously. Keep right and let others know before passing on the left. (R. Scott McNeill)

7. Share the adventure. Keep to the right and pass on the left when it’s safe. Let others know before passing and be courteous to walkers, runners, cyclists and equestrians. Keep pets close to you and on a leash.

8. Bring the right gear. Wear a helmet while riding a bicycle or e-bike and a properly fitted life jacket on the water. Class 1, 2 and 3 e-bikes are welcome on trails where bicycles are permitted. The speed limit is as posted, and 20 mph where not posted. ATVs, dirt bikes and unauthorized motorized vehicles are prohibited in the preserves.

Give wildlife room to stay wild. Watch from a distance and never feed animals or use calls to attract them. (John D. Kavc)

9. Wildlife needs space. Watching wildlife is one of the best parts of visiting a preserve. Observe from a distance and never feed them. Don’t use bird calls or recordings to attract wildlife, as they disrupt natural behavior. Wild animals are healthiest when they stay wild. Pets should be leashed for their safety.

10. Use fire safely. Only use grills or fire pits where permitted. Never leave a fire unattended and make sure it is completely out before leaving.

Before you call it a day

11. Don’t take ticks home. Before leaving a preserve, check yourself, your companions and your pets for ticks. Remove any ticks promptly.

Take your trash with you and leave nature’s treasures for others to enjoy. (Jeanna Martinucci)

12. Leave only footprints. Pack it in, pack it out. Keep plants, flowers, rocks and other natural treasures where you found them so others can enjoy them too. Clean up after yourself and your pets.

• • •

See something? Say something

“If you see unsafe behavior, suspicious activity or someone who needs help, don’t assume someone else has already reported it,” Police Chief Ron Davis said. “One quick call can make all the difference and helps keep the preserves safe for everyone.”

Emergency: Call 911

Nonemergency: Call the Forest Preserves police department at 847-968-3404 from 6:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays. After hours and on weekends, call the Lake County Sheriff’s 911 Communication Center at 847-549-5200.

• Kim Mikus is a communications specialist for the Lake County Forest Preserves. She writes a bimonthly column about various aspects of the preserves. Contact her with ideas or questions at kmikuscroke@LCFPD.org. Connect with the Lake County Forest Preserves on social media @LCFPD.