DAY HIKES
Beck Lake
Des Plaines
Jan. 12, 13, 14, 2026
Jan. 12, 13, 14, 2026
2-hours
$25.00
Difficulty rating
Miles
Approx. 3 miles
Terrain
The 1st half is a wide crushed gravel level trail, and depending upon the level of snow, we will venture into the narrow path along the Desplaines River. If snow is too deep, we will take a short loop near the river. If the snow is minimal, we will take the longer loop along river.
A brand-new hike for Trailbound kicks off at the stunning Beck Lake, nestled right along the border of Glenview and Des Plaines. Our adventure begins on a wide crushed gravel path that follows the Des Plaines River Trail, winding beneath the mature maples, oaks, and hickory trees. This thickly wooded trail acts as a natural shield, sheltering us from the cold winter winds as we make our way toward Camp Pine. At Camp Pine, we take a delightful loop that leads us onto a much narrower trail hugging the Des Plaines River. Here, surrounded by quiet nature, we truly feel “off the beaten path,” far removed from the suburban hustle, as we savor the sparkling snow and shimmering ice lining the riverbanks. (Photos obviously taken during the warmer months)
Washroom
Outhouse at the beginning of the parking lot. (stop here first, then keep driving)
What to Bring
Water
Hiking sticks
Boot grips: YakTrax or even better Kahtoola Microspikes
Emergency Medical Information form filled out, kept in your bag
Layers to keep warm
Waterproof ankle high hiking boots or snow shoes
Optional: warming packets for hands or feet.
Optional Restaurant for lunch
Lunch at Katie’s Kitchen, 623 N Wolf Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Times
We meet by 9:45 am to use outhouse and begin hiking at 10:00am
Let’s Fully Savor the Outdoor Serenity
We ask you kindly to silence your phones and keep conversations positive.
Weather
We have fun in all kinds of weather, so we rarely postpone. If the temperature is below 0 degrees, or windchilll is below -20 degrees we will cancel. If it’s snowing too much to drive we will also cancel. Look for an email before 8am on the day of the hike for cancellations.
You Will Learn
About the Weddell Seal
Driving Directions
Address: Beck Lake boat ramp
Entrance to Forest Preserve is at the intersection of Central Road and East River Road. Use Google link below to go to the Beck Lake parking lot near the boat ramp. Outhouse is at the beginning of the parking lot, and best to stop there, and then park further at the end of the lot hear the boat ramp.
We will meet in the Parking lot at 9:45am
Cook County Forest Preserve
Phone: 800-870-3666
Web: fpdcc.com
Discussion Starter Question
Weddell seals can dive for a mile under water in complete darkness, find prey, and get back to their breathing hole. Truly amazing.
What helps you most with your sense of direction when you are in a new area?
Guides
Karen, aka "Carin" Tue & Thur
Kari, aka “Lucky Duck” Wed
Cancellations
If you desire to cancel your day hike, you can reschedule for a different hike within the same season:
Please email hello@trailboundtrip.com, and state your name, and desired new hike day.
You will receive confirmation for this new day hike if there is room on the trip.
Refunds
Refunds are given when Trailbound Trips cancels a hike. Trailbound Trips will cancel and refund a hike for two reasons:
There needs to be a minimum of three people. You will be notified 24 hours in advance if this is the case.
The weather is dangerous or not bearable. You will be notified before 8 a.m. on the day of the hike via email.