Greene Valley Forest Preserve

On weekends May through October, its 190-foot-tall scenic overlook provides a bird’s-eye view of the landscape and the Chicago skyline. It’s a great spot to picnic or look for migratory birds. Greene Valley also offers 12 miles of marked trails, picnic shelters, an off-leash dog area, a model craft area, a youth-group campground and more.

Learn how to identify 11 different trees along the 1-mile self-guided Tree Trek footpath. Find out how to get started at the information sign south of the Thunderbird Road parking lot.