Elizabeth A. Conkey Forest

Together, they connect with the larger Elizabeth Conkey Woods Nature Preserve, an ecologically rich site featuring mesic woodlands, floodplain forest, sedge meadows, and regional streams. The preserve also contains the Huber site, one of Cook County’s earliest known human habitation areas, dating back up to 10,000 years. The forest is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Visitors to each section will find amenities differ slightly:

• • Conkey Forest-North offers a marked entrance from Central Avenue with a short paved multi-use trail. This easy-rated path supports hiking, biking, trail running, snowshoeing, and Nordic skiing, and is dog-friendly—ideal for year-round recreation.

• • Conkey Forest-South provides access from 135th Street and includes parking, picnic tables, a shelter, and trash cans. Trails here are best suited for hiking, walking, and biking, making it a welcoming spot for families and casual visitors.

Beyond recreation, Conkey Forest is part of a 3,500-acre corridor along the Tinley Creek system. This location supports native plants, wildlife, and cleaner waterways.