Ronan Park Trail

The 3 acres of Ronan Park in Chicago, Illinois were named after Ensign George Ronan, who died in the Fort Dearborn Battle in 1812, and the dog furiendly main trail traveling the length of the park is nothing short of furfect. The quarter of a mile trail starts at 3000 West Argyle at the northwest corner of the the park, and meanders through the green space and along a portion of the North Branch of the Chicago River, weaving in and around the oak and hickory trees which provide tons of shade exactly where you want it. 

The Ronan Park main trail is flat and paved, making it a breeze for any age and ability. Near the beginning of the trail, in the northwest area, you can see the Multi-Ethnic Sculpture and Healing Garden, a place to relax and reflect on multiple sculptures hailing from Buddhist, Cambodian, Chinese, and other cultures.

As you continue down this easy trail, you can let the little two-leggeds in your clan take some time to play on the playgrounds here. You'll find benches placed along the trail for a rest and some nature or people-watching. Water fountains for humans and doggos are also found in different areas along the trail, but do bring water for your best bud during the colder winter months.

There is a woodchip spur trail that heads down closer to the river if you and your pup would like a closer look. Past that, you can find picnic tables if you'd like to share a meal or snack, as well as trash cans to help dispose of any waste. Be sure to bring your own clean-up bags and pick up whatever your pup puts down.

Always keep your dog on a leash in Ronan Park. Not only will you encounter other walkers and bike riders, but you may also spot some of the local wildlife that calls the park home, such as foxes, raccoons, turkey, quail, and ducks.

The trail ends at the other end of the park, on W Lawrence Avenue. To explore the other half of the park on the east side of the river, a portion of the North Shore Channel Trail cuts through, and heads north into River Park above Ronan Park. Be aware that parking is not available at the park itself, so you'll need to walk from a parking spot to get here.

For a nature oasis in the heart of busy Chicago, check out the pawtastic Ronan Park and its trails with your pup!