Dog walking in Hanover Park

St. Charles

A trip to Fox River Bluff Dog Park in St. Charles makes for a pawesome off-leash adventure! Even though the park isn’t fenced in, and there’s no separate small dog area, you and your pooch are sure to have a furrific time exploring the many shaded, scenic trails. Dogs also have access to parts of the Fox River, so your pup can have a whale of a time splashing about, or just cooling off after working up a sweat. Be careful, though; the river can swell after heavy rains!

South Hanover Park

Hawk Hollow Preserve Off-Leash Dog Park is located right on the border between Hanover Park and nearby Bartlett. The size of the park alone makes it a mutts-visit. There’s 34 acres of open space for your furry friend to run free in, divided into four enclosures, with one reserved for dogs under 25 pounds. This pup’s paradise also features a 1.5-mile limestone trail, and everything you need is provided on-site -- all you and your pooch have to bring is your enthusiasm! Unfortunately, you will need a permit to use the space, but you can easily apply for one from the Visitors Service in Wheaton.

Lombard

The East Branch Forest Preserve area in Lombard is a haven for happy dogs! If your pooch loves to swim, they’ll find it im-paws-ible to resist the off-leash pond area. There’s trails for walking and plenty of green space for playing catch, but be warned -- some of the vegetation can be dangerous, so keep an eye on your pup if they tend to chew everything in sight! Once you and your fur baby are all tired out, you can grab a bite at the excellent Overtime Bar and Grill, a lovely local spot that caters for canine companions at their outdoor tables.

Downtown Arlington Heights

While Arlington Heights is a little further away from Hanover Park -- a 24-minute drive in light traffic -- it’s well worth the trip to visit Bentley’s Pet Stuff. This Illinois staple stocks the best in terms of treats for your pet, from healthy bites to dog bagels to biscotti! For food suitable for humans, check out Salsa 17 on Campbell Street. A local favorite, this restaurant serves up some of the best Mexican food in the area, and permits doggie diners at outside tables. Afterwards, why not take an after-dinner stroll around Harmony Park? This small but charming green space welcomes pets on leash, and hosts open air music events during the summer months.

Mallard Lake

For fur-friendly hiking, look no further than Mallard Lake County Forest Preserve, where dogs are welcome on-leash. Beloved by local dog owners, bird-watchers and wildflower spotters alike, the preserve features some of the most peaceful scenery the area has to offer, and there’s a trail for every ability. Just remember to bring your own water and dog bags, and it’s a good idea to look up a trail map before you go. A lot of the trails aren’t signposted, and it’s easy for the unwary to get lost!