When Ed Channell and his family moved to a house just two blocks from Greene Valley Forest Preserve, they discovered a local treasure that blends recreation, nature and quiet reflection. The preserve, spanning 1,400 acres across Naperville, Woodridge and Bolingbrook, provides a wide range of outdoor activities for families, pet owners and anyone seeking a break from screens.
Trails for Every Pace
Visitors can choose from miles of paved and natural‑surface trails suitable for walking, biking, horseback riding and jogging. The network connects open prairies, woodlands and wetlands, offering varied scenery throughout the year. Parents often bring children to explore the habitats, while birdwatchers keep binoculars handy for spotting local species.
Mount Trashmore Overlook
One of the preserve’s most striking features is the scenic overlook known as “Mount Trashmore.” Rising more than 190 feet above the surrounding countryside, the hill provides one of DuPage County’s best panoramic views. On clear days the Chicago skyline is visible, reminding visitors of God’s handi‑work and the value of preserving natural spaces close to home.
Family‑Friendly Amenities
Greene Valley includes picnic areas where families gather for meals, an off‑leash dog park for energetic pets, and a campground that hosts youth groups and scouting events. The park’s design encourages children to experience nature firsthand, supporting physical health and mental well‑being. Local doctors frequently cite walking in fresh air as a simple, effective form of exercise, and the preserve offers a safe setting for that activity.
Community Connections
Ed’s wife Kathy and their son Sam are regular visitors. Kathy often rides her bike or walks the longer trails, while Sam enjoys the dog park with the Rathjens’ puppy, Cooper. The family notes that a day spent at Greene Valley feels like a modest, cost‑free vacation compared with traveling to distant scenic spots.
Practical Information
The main entrance is on the west side of Greene Road, about a quarter‑mile south of 79th Street. The preserve opens one hour after sunrise and closes one hour after sunset. Dogs must be leashed no longer than ten feet, and alcohol is prohibited. Accessible restrooms are available throughout the site.
Why It Matters
For Naperville residents, Greene Valley Forest Preserve serves as a reminder that some of life’s greatest blessings—clean air, open space and peaceful views—are available without an admission fee. The preserve supports family health, offers a venue for community gatherings, and showcases the natural beauty that surrounds the city.
Whether you are looking for a place to walk your dog, ride a horse, or simply pause and admire a skyline framed by trees, a visit to Greene Valley’s Mount Trashmore is a worthwhile local outing.
Original reporting: Positively Naperville (Aurora area) — read the source article.
