The Forest Preserves of Cook County has broken ground on its largest ecological restoration project ever, a multi-year initiative that will also reconstruct and improve portions of the most extensive trail system in the Forest Preserves. Funded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the $10 million Swallow Cliff and Palos Trail System Infrastructure Improvements project will restore approximately 1,100 acres of natural land, mitigate erosion and upgrade accessibility and wayfinding markers on the trails. The Palos Preserves cover 15,000 acres, the largest contiguous area in the Forest Preserves of Cook County and the same size as the Indiana Dunes National Park. The site includes the Swallow Cliff stairs, Camp Bullfrog Lake, Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center, Sagawau Environmental Learning Center, Maple Lake boathouse, and the largest Urban Night Sky Place in the world. The 78 miles of trails in the Palos Preserves has been ranked as a top ten hiking destinations in Illinois by Trip Advisor and includes more than 24 miles of single-track mountain biking opportunities. For the trails, restoration during the project will address erosion in the area’s ravines and hills and improve sight lines and the natural experience for trail users. Funding for Swallow Cliff and Palos Trail System Infrastructure Improvements project is provided by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and made possible through Build Illinois bond funds.

Photo Credit: Forest Preserves of Cook County