West DuPage Woods

West DuPage Woods is a mix of woodland, wetland and prairie, providing diverse habitats for plants and animals. Visitors can choose to explore the high ground, where mowed paths through the upland woods showcase an impressive display of spring wildflowers. Or, they can choose the low-lying areas, where they’ll find that wetlands and the banks of the West Branch of the DuPage River host an interesting array of marsh vegetation and wildlife.

The preserve is a popular birding spot, known for hosting migrating warblers.

Recreation

Fishing

This preserve offers fishing along the West Branch of the DuPage River that features sunfish, carp and bluegill. In the Elsen's Hill area, there is a half-acre pond that features bass and sunfish.

Picnicking

A short walk from the parking lot are picnic areas with tables and drinking water, both at the main entrance and Elsen’s Hills.

Trails

Trails include a one-mile loop from the main parking lot and a two-mile loop from the Elsen's Hill parking lot. Both offer a variety of terrain and are very popular for hiking, cross-country skiing and horseback riding.

Volunteer Opportunities

Working under the direction of the Office of Natural Resources, volunteer site stewards and “Volunteer Restoration Workday” participants help to monitor and manage the restored prairie and shrub savanna and the rare wetland fen, known as Elsen’s Hill, on the east side of the preserve. For information on volunteer opportunities at West DuPage Woods and other forest preserves, visit the Natural Resource Management volunteer page, or contact Volunteer Services at (630) 933-7681 or volunteer@dupageforest.org.

Accessibility

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to making its facilities accessible to all visitors. Individuals with accessibility needs or concerns should contact the District’s ADA coordinator at (630) 933-7683 or TTY (800) 526-0857 at least three business days before their visit.