Lake Katherine: A Beautiful Oasis in the Chicago Suburbs
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Mike and I are originally from Chicago so we occasionally come back to visit family members. Most of the time we are enjoying the city’s many great amenities during the touristy summer season. We were in town recently visiting a family member in suburban Orland Park and decided to check out this small preserve which was recommended to us. Lake Katherine is located in Palos Heights, just a half hour or so from downtown Chicago. It’s a wonderful place to get back to nature in a really pretty setting.
This beautiful recreation area includes a walking path, gardens, an arboretum, and a waterfall. We got up early as we knew crowds would increase in the afternoon. We enjoyed pretty much the entire preserve to ourselves. This is a low-key place where you can really escape the surrounding suburban congestion for an hour or 2.
There is a one mile trail around a scenic 20 acre man made lake. It’s the perfect place for taking a morning or evening walk. While I love all the great shops and restaurants in Orland Park (I recommend Fox’s and Rocco’s Italian), sometimes it is a bit overwhelming. This area seems to get more and more congested by the year and it’s nice to have places like this to escape the strip malls and traffic even for just an hour.
The trail here is short and easy. This is great because it is accessible to pretty much anyone. Even the most avid fitness buffs can enjoy an “off day” here simply enjoying a nature outing as opposed to a rough and tough workout. This is a great place to just enjoy nature, birdwatch, and get away from modern living for a bit.
The lake scenery is very beautiful and relaxing. Grab a coffee to go, leave the phone at home, and just enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. I appreciate any time I get to spend off the computer as I am on it so much. Kayak rentals are available at the rate of $10 per person. I love kayaking (it is a fantastic workout), and will consider renting one on my next visit.
You will find a variety of gardens including a butterfly and herb garden. In September each year, the park hosts a monarch butterfly celebration. There are special activities like face painting and hayrides and also you will get to walk through a tent with beautiful monarch butterflies.
The man made waterfall is the highlight of the park. It’s no Niagara, but rather a nice suburban waterfall located in a beautiful park. You don’t have to complete a rough and tough hike to see this one. If you are in town for St. Patrick’s Day, make sure to check it out as it is transformed into a green wonder. I haven’t ever seen it for myself, but have heard from relatives that it is spectacular!
Why you should visit this local gem
As you can see from the photos above, this wonderful suburban oasis is a spectacular place for photographers and other artists. Whether you are seeking a tranquil place for a nature stroll, a scenic place to spend the day with your family, or a birdwatching destination, this park fits the bill. It’s a quick drive from the southwest suburbs including Orland Park, Tinley Park, and New Lenox.
Additional Details
- Address: 7402 Lake Katherine Drive Palos Heights, IL 60463. Free parking and admission.
- Nature Center hours: Monday-Friday: 9:00-5:00pm, Saturday: 10:00am-4:00pm. Closed on Sunday.
- Pet friendly: Yes, but dogs must be on a leash no longer than 10 feet.
- Fishing: Not allowed except for special events like fishing derbies.
- Pickning: Only allowed in the festival grounds. No grilling at any time.
