Dog walking in Steger

Trantina Farms

In less than half an hour, you can get to 50 acres of pet-friendly land at Trantina Farms Dog Park. It is separated into two areas. The northern part is about thirty acres of human-friendly areas that include playgrounds, picnic areas, and pavilions. You can bring your dog here, but keep him on a leash. The southern twenty acres has trails that you can enjoy with your dog as well as a completely fenced-in dog park for your dog to get off of his leash and just play. All the areas are family friendly and part of a grant given to allow for the green space to stay virtually untouched.

North

Everyone loves a good burger, and your dog is no exception, so bring her over to Iron Horse Creamery. Here, you and your dog can grab an outdoor table while you munch on classic hamburgers and french fries. Then, for dessert, you can get an ice cream cone. The locals rave about the sweet and smooth texture of the chocolate ice cream. This is the perfect place to stop on your way home from the dog park around the corner. All of this goodness is waiting for you about 25 miles away. Just remember that your dog must stay on a leash while you're here.

Forest Preserve

Dog parks are a lot of fun. You can bring your dogs to play and socialize with other dogs. If you live in an apartment, or have a small yard, dog parks can be a invaluable resource. However, Messenger Marsh Dog Park takes it to the next level. It comes with the standard fenced-in area where you can let your dog off the leash and run. The park also has water and cleaning stations. But then, you notice the trails. These are fenced-in, off-leash trails that allow your dog to explore at his own pace. Honestly, it can't get any better than that.

Ingalls Park

Old Plank Road Trail was created by the Rails-to-Trails Conservation team to give you somewhere safe to walk your dog. The great thing about this 33-mile trail is that it is for those who don't love nature as much as they love the city. This is an urban trail line. As you walk, you will come across cafes, shops, and even city buildings, making it the pawfect place for a stroll in the heart of town. You can bring your own water bottles or you could stop and get some along the way. You will need a leash while you are here, though.

Laraway

Wauponsee Glacial Trail runs through the prairie along the former lake bed. You will see bison that run wild along their natural habitat. You'll also see wildflowers that grow naturally. It's the perfect place for a peaceful walk through some scenic country side. This is part of the Rails-to-Trails system, so most of the trail is paved with asphalt. You will need to bring water and a leash while you play. It's a little bit of a drive away at 35 miles, but a spending a day in nature with your best fur-iend is well worth the short car journey.