Harms Woods contains remnants of high-quality oak savanna, an increasingly rare ecosystem in Illinois.
The forest preserve serves as a significant stopover point for migratory songbirds along the Mississippi Flyway.
Extensive ecological restoration work has been conducted here to remove invasive buckthorn and honeysuckle, allowing native woodland flowers like trillium and Virginia bluebells to recover.
The site is managed by the Forest Preserves of Cook County, which uses controlled burns to maintain the health of the oak woodland habitat.
The Chicago River’s North Branch creates distinct riverine floodplains that periodically reshape the lower-lying sections of the woods.
Harms Woods is a 337-acre forest preserve located along the North Branch of the Chicago River in Glenview, Illinois. It is part of the Forest Preserves of Cook County, offering a network of paved and crushed-gravel trails suitable for hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing. The preserve features diverse ecosystems, including floodplain forests, oak woodlands, and restored prairies. The site provides several designated picnic groves with tables and grills. Visitors often observe a variety of native wildlife, including migratory birds and deer, within the wooded habitat. The trails connect to the larger North Branch Trail system, extending the range for longer recreational excursions. Fishing is permitted in the Chicago River segments within the preserve boundaries.
The wooden bridge crossings over the North Branch of the Chicago River provide the most scenic vantage points.
Bring insect repellent during the summer months, as the forested areas and river proximity attract mosquitoes.
Check the Forest Preserves of Cook County website for current trail closure alerts caused by periodic flooding after heavy rainfall.
Wear waterproof footwear if visiting during the spring or after significant rain, as lowland trails can become muddy.
Do not attempt to traverse flooded trail sections during high-water events, as the current can be unpredictable.
Open daily from sunrise to sunset throughout the year; some interior trails may close seasonally for maintenance or restoration.
Leash your dogs at all times, pack out all trash, and remain on marked trails to protect sensitive restoration areas.
