Trail #1: Done!
Keepataw Preserve is hidden along a winding road, past Veterans Woods, and tucked away on a hill in Lemont. The shortest of all of the trails this year, it was less than a half mile according to MapMyRun. (Unless we missed a turn somewhere . . .) It only took us about 7 minutes to complete and that was including a few stops along the way to take in the view and submit our location at the Goosechase check-in point.
The trail begins at a very small gravel lot and meanders the hillside in a loop. It’s all grass that looked like it had been recently mowed. It was easy to follow and wasn’t very taxing; even the upward climb at the end was manageable, though I imagine it would be difficult with a stroller or other wheeled vehicle. Everything was lush and green however on the flip side of the loop, at the top of the hill, we could see the I-355 bridge over the I&M Canal as well as the refinery in Lemont. The trail is also close enough to civilization to hear the traffic on the bridge and an emergency vehicle somewhere nearby.
We didn’t see any wildlife here, and it wasn’t quite what we expected, but if you’re looking for a quick trail you can check off the list, give it a try. I’m guessing with the changing of the leaves this area would be absolutely beautiful. And on a clear day you can see for miles. Kinda cool!
Happy hiking!
#woodswalkchallenge2026
#keepatawpreserve
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