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Right here in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, you’ll find Busse Woods—also called the Ned Brown Forest Preserve. It’s one of my favorite places to relax and enjoy nature. This huge park covers over 3,700 acres, and it’s the perfect spot to escape from the busy world for a while.
Whether you’re super into outdoor adventures or just need some fresh air, Busse Woods has something for everyone. My family and I love hanging out here—from easy walks on the trails to big family adventures, we always have a blast!
Nature All Around You
One of the coolest things about Busse Woods is how it shows off the beauty of nature. You’ll see tall oak and maple trees, and you might even spot some wildlife while you walk. And here’s something special—there’s a big Elk Pasture where you can see elk roaming around! It’s a 17-acre fenced-in area, and it’s so cool to watch these amazing animals up close. My family never gets tired of visiting them.
Learn more about the Elk Pasture here
Trails for Everyone
Whether you love biking, jogging, or just walking (like me!), Busse Woods has over 10 miles of paved trails. These trails go through beautiful forests and around peaceful lakes. I can’t even count how many times I’ve tied up my sneakers and walked the main loop trail—the views of Busse Lake are always awesome. It’s a great way to clear your mind, get some fresh air, and maybe see some animals along the way.
Fun on the Water
If you love being on the water, you’ve got to check out Busse Lake. This big 590-acre lake is a favorite spot for people who love fishing, and it’s stocked with fish, so even beginners can catch something! My family loves renting kayaks and canoes from the Busse Lake Boating Center. It’s super relaxing to paddle around the lake and take in all the beautiful sights.
Perfect for Picnics and Play
One of our favorite things to do as a family is pack a picnic and head to one of Busse Woods’ many picnic spots. There are shelters, tables, and lots of open space to spread out. It’s the perfect place to have lunch or spend the whole day playing games. The kids love running around in the open play areas while the adults relax and enjoy the view.
Something Special in Every Season
No matter what time of year it is, Busse Woods is always beautiful. Fall is my favorite—the trees turn bright red, orange, and yellow, and it looks like something out of a painting. In winter, the trails are covered in snow, and you can even go cross-country skiing. Spring and summer are awesome too, with blooming wildflowers, green trees, and tons of birds to watch.
Plan Your Visit
Busse Woods is open every day from sunrise to sunset, and there’s plenty of parking at different entrances. You’ll find bathrooms and water fountains around the park, which is super helpful. If you’re bringing your dog, just make sure to keep them on a leash.
Before you go, it’s a good idea to check for any updates or closures on the Forest Preserves of Cook County’s official website.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for a quiet walk, a fun family day, or an adventure on the water, Busse Woods has it all. It’s one of those places that feels like home to me, and I think you’ll love it just as much as I do.
Grab your picnic basket, put on your hiking shoes, or bring your fishing gear, and come see the beauty of Busse Woods for yourself!
Learn more about life in the northwest suburbs or connect with me for personalized real estate advice!
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