Are dogs allowed on Fort Sheridan Loop Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Fort Sheridan Loop Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Fort Sheridan Loop Trail?

No, Fort Sheridan Loop Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Fort Sheridan Loop Trail?

Fort Sheridan Loop Trail is rated moderate. It is 1.9 miles long with 171 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Illinois trail conditions

ModerateLoop

Illinois

Fort Sheridan Loop Trail

Lake Forest, Illinois

1.9 mi

Distance

171 ft

Elev. Gain

Loop

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

Imported description

Relax on the shore of Lake Michigan, enjoy trails for recreation and nature observation, and learn about Fort Sheridan's story through self-guided educational exhibits. Known for its pristine natural areas and excellent lakefront birdwatching. A unique Lake Michigan natural resource, Fort Sheridan is of statewide significance. The land here was shaped by the forces of glaciation and erosion. Efforts to restore the site and preserve its valuable ecosystems and rich human history is ongoing. In total, roughly 4.5 miles are available here for hiking, 3.7 miles for cross-country skiing, and 1.3 miles for bicycling. Trail surfaces include paved, gravel, grass, woodchip, and sand. Paved: 1.3-mile Lake Michigan Trail for hiking, biking and cross-country skiing. Trail runs from Sheridan Road through the preserve to Lake Michigan, and connects to educational exhibits along the Fort's historic parade ground and to other walk-through exhibits and viewing stations along the route. Grass: 2.1-mile mowed trail for hiking and cross-country skiing only. Woodchip: 0.3-mile trail for hiking and cross-country skiing only. Trail offers scenic views of the preserve's ravines from the trail bridge. Sandy shoreline: 0.75 miles for hiking only. The shoreline is also great for fishing, birdwatching, picnicking or relaxing. Swimming, wading, and boating are not allowed.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:192 ft

Max:215 ft

52 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.