i often feel like chicagoans either don't realize or appreciate the access we have to some genuinely incredible nature within the metro area. so many people travel to michigan, wisconsin, and minnesota for hiking and to escape the city. i get it! there are some stunning places to see in those states! but it makes it seem like chicago has nothing to offer in the nature department and that could not be more untrue.

i know we don't have mountains and that does suck, but we have beautifully preserved prairie lands, wetlands, hills and ravines carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. we don't lack nature! most places don't have parties and wetlands! these are rare and vital ecosystems just sitting in our collective backyard!

i don't own a car and i can't tell you how much of a game changer it is to be able to hop on a train, read a book, get off, walk to a preserve, hike for a few hours, grab a quick bite to eat to support a local business, and get back on a train home. metra even lets you have a beer on board if that's your thing!

we're spoiled, y'all. take advantage of it. take the train.

if you're interested in good spots accessible via train, check out the book "chicago transit hikes" by lindsay welbers.