Connecting to the North Central DuPage regional Trail, Meacham Grove Forest Preserve offers a short loop around Maple Lake. This Bloomingdale Illinois Nature Preserve is a great spot to hike/bike or even go fishing!
Overall Thoughts on Meacham Grove Forest Preserve:
Difficulty (Lower is Easier)
Amenities
Transportation & Accessibility:
Crowding:
Views & Wildlife:
Overall Rating:
Difficulty
At 1.3 miles, the Maple Lake loop was great for a quick brisk walk. It offered seating along the way for those looking to relax and enjoy nature for a minute.
Getting to Meacham Grove Forest Preserve
You can get to Meacham Grove Nature Preserve by bike via North Central DuPage Regional Trail.
Meacham Grove Nature Preserve is located in the West Suburb of Bloomingdale Illinois, which is a 30-minute drive from Chicago. Located off of Route 20 via Circle Ave.
Beauty & Wildlife
Following the Maple Lake Trail we also got views of Meacham Marsh and Circle Marsh. I enjoyed the beauty of the Marshland and woods. Yet, with the open space and the bare trees of winter we were able to see the surrounding houses.
During my bug free winter hike, I did not see any wildlife. However, during the right season listen for frogs and watch for birds like the Great Blue Heron or the Great Egret.
Maple Lake also offers fishing. Catch blue gills, Largemouth Bass and several other kinds of fish in this Lake.
Know Before you go:
Bring bug spray! Between the Lake and marshland, it is sure to be a bit buggy. I also suggest sunscreen, especially since there are areas without shade.
As always when you go hiking be sure to dress for the weather and season. I personally like to have layers and wear sturdy shoes.
Amenities
This nature preserve does offer restrooms.
The trail featured several benches. Which are perfect for a picnic. Meacham Grove also has picnic tables, places to relax and spots to set up fishing gear.
Looks quiet and peaceful!