Catherine Chevalier Woods
This expansive tract features a variety of nature habitats, plus areas for picnicking & hiking.
Catherine Chevalier Woods is rated 4.6 / 5 from 1,102 Google reviews and sits about 1.1 km (14 min walk) from Rosemont station.
General overview
About Catherine Chevalier Woods
Catherine Chevalier Woods is a forest preserve on Chicago’s Northwest Side, near the Des Plaines River and O’Hare Airport. It offers wooded trails, open natural areas, picnic facilities, and opportunities for walking, bird-watching, fishing, and other low-impact outdoor recreation. Admission is generally free. The information below is based on existing knowledge and has not been live-verified.
- Wooded Cook County forest preserve setting
- Walking and nature trails
- Picnic and open-space areas
- Near the Des Plaines River and O’Hare Airport
- Suitable for bird-watching, wildlife observation, and quiet outdoor recreation
- Part of the Forest Preserves of Cook County system
Things to do here
Walking and hiking
Explore woodland and preserve paths at an easy, generally low-intensity pace. Trail conditions may vary seasonally and after rain.
Bird-watching and wildlife observation
The preserve’s woods and nearby river habitat can support sightings of urban and riparian birds and other wildlife.
Picnicking
Use designated picnic areas or tables where available. Visitors should bring supplies and pack out waste if receptacles are unavailable or full.
Fishing
Fishing may be possible in permitted waters nearby, subject to Illinois and Forest Preserves of Cook County rules and licensing requirements.
Photography and nature study
A convenient location for casual landscape, woodland, and wildlife photography, especially in spring and fall.
Dog walking
Dogs may be permitted in areas where leashed pets are allowed; visitors should follow posted restrictions and clean up after pets.
Use the posted preserve entrance and obey signs. Bring water, insect repellent, sunscreen, and sturdy walking shoes. A car is often the most practical way to reach this location; verify parking and public-transit details before departure.
No advance booking is normally needed for general access. Check for permits or reservations if planning a large picnic, organized event, or special activity.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
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Most asked
How to reach
Catherine Chevalier Woods is about 1.1 km (~14 min walk) from Rosemont station on the Chicago "L".
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
Also near this station
Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago
Hotels · 4 min walk
★ 4.3
The Westin O'Hare
Hotels · 8 min walk
★ 4.3
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chicago O'Hare Airport - Rosemont
Hotels · 8 min walk
★ 4.2
Bub City
Restaurants · 11 min walk
★ 4.6
Parkway Bank Park Entertainment District
Places to visit · 11 min walk
★ 4.5
iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Chicago Rosemont
Places to visit · 11 min walk
★ 4.6
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Catherine Chevalier Woods from Rosemont station?
Catherine Chevalier Woods is about 1095 m (roughly 14 min walk) from Rosemont station on the Chicago "L". Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Catherine Chevalier Woods rated?
Catherine Chevalier Woods has a Google rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 1,102 reviews.
What's near Catherine Chevalier Woods?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Hyatt Regency O'Hare Chicago, The Westin O'Hare, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chicago O'Hare Airport - Rosemont.
Is Catherine Chevalier Woods wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Catherine Chevalier Woods: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking.
Is there parking near Catherine Chevalier Woods?
Google lists these parking options near Catherine Chevalier Woods: free parking lot, paid parking lot, free street parking.
Is Catherine Chevalier Woods good for children?
Yes — Google lists Catherine Chevalier Woods as good for children.
Are dogs allowed at Catherine Chevalier Woods?
Yes — Google lists Catherine Chevalier Woods as dog-friendly.
Is Catherine Chevalier Woods free to visit?
General access to the forest preserve is generally free. Separate permits, reservations, or fees may apply to organized events or special uses.
Do I need a reservation?
Not for an ordinary walk, nature visit, or picnic using generally available public areas. Contact the Forest Preserves if you need a reserved picnic area, permit, or organized-event approval.
How long should I plan to stay?
Allow about one to three hours for a relaxed walk, nature observation, and picnic. A shorter visit is also practical if you are nearby.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are generally expected to remain leashed unless a clearly designated off-leash area is posted. Check signs at the entrance and clean up after your pet.
Are there restrooms and drinking water?
Seasonal toilets may be available near developed areas, but facilities are not guaranteed. Bring your own drinking water.
Is the preserve suitable for children?
Yes, for supervised walking, wildlife observation, and picnicking. Trails may be uneven, and children should be watched closely near water, roads, and dense vegetation.
Can I fish there?
Fishing may be allowed in nearby permitted waters, but you must follow current preserve regulations and carry any required Illinois fishing license.
Is it accessible by public transit?
The preserve is in a car-oriented part of Chicago near O’Hare. Transit access may be limited or involve walking from a nearby stop; verify the route and entrance location before traveling.
What should I bring?
Water, snacks, insect repellent, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, sturdy shoes, and waste bags for pets. Cell service and amenities should not be assumed throughout the preserve.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.