Hidden Lake Forest Preserve
Location
The entrance is on the east side of Route 53, one-quarter mile south of Butterfield Road. The forest preserve is north of the Morton Arboretum.
Preserve History
The District purchased Hidden Lake Forest Preserve in 1978. Hiking east of the lake will take you near the former site of "Sunny Acres Farm," the country home of Chicago grain trader Arthur Cutten, who owned 268 acres of the current preserve. Cutten was born dirt-poor in Canada, and rose to become one of the wealthiest men in America in the 1920s and '30s.
The north lake was dug by the Illinois Toll Highway Authority for gravel for the roadbed of I-355. The surrounding wetlands were created as part of the mitigation process when the tollway ran through two natural wetlands.
The name Hidden Lake comes from the south lake which is mostly hidden from view. This lake is a former quarry that has filled over the years. The East Branch River adds to the variety of fishing areas to choose from. Both are home to bass, crappie, sunfish, channel catfish and carp.
Gazing across the many acres it is easy to imagine the past and its many characters. As you fish, hike or just quietly watch the grass grow, remember Cutten and the Roaring Twenties. Consider how this quiet lake helped build a road and remember there is more to any picture than meets the eye.
Accessibility
For special accessibility needs or concerns, please contact the District's ADA coordinator at (630) 933-7683 or TTY (800) 526-0857 at least three business days in advance of your visit.
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 5000, Wheaton, IL 60189-5000
email: forest@dupageforest.com (630) 933-7200 Fax: (630) 933-7204 TTY: (800) 526-0857