Middlefork Greenway Trail

Middlefork Savanna is described as the best surviving black soil savanna in Illinois. In fact, over 25 acres of the preserve are considered the highest quality soil savanna in the nation and a globally threatened ecosystem. Home to a rare tallgrass savanna, Middlefork Savanna features a mix of oak savanna and woodlands, wet and mesic prairies, sedge meadows and marshes. Middlefork provides valuable protection for state and federally listed species such as the Blanding's turtle. A 4-mile gravel trail is open for hiking, bicycling and cross-country skiing. Two boardwalks on the trail help protect sensitive wetland areas. A short 0.5-mile mowed path is open for hiking. Once part of a large glacial lake, Middlefork Savanna provides safe harbor for endangered plant and wildlife species, and several environmentally sensitive wetlands that feed into the North Branch of the Chicago River. Chicago Wilderness has identified Middlefork Savanna as one of the most important sites for biodiversity in northeastern Illinois. Because of its size, Middlefork supports an impressive list of uncommon birds, butterflies and other species that require large open areas for survival. Middlefork also serves as a national ecological research site and outdoor classroom for universities, schools, and other organizations.