Hawk Hollow is a forest reserve in Bartlett, IL. This 1,172-acre land features woodlands and grassy meadows perfect for those who love the outdoors. This large preserve has one of the country’s largest unbroken blocks of grassland habitat and is home to some fantastic species of birds and other wild animals. Hawk Hollow is bisected by the western branch of the DuPage River, which, combined with the rolling green meadows, creates the most picturesque of scenes.

Historically, Hawk allow was predominantly a prairie with a patch of timber, now known as Gilbert’s Grove. From the 1970s to the 2000s, the Forest Preserve District slowly acquired the land. The district has maintained and added various elements to the reserve over time; for example, in 2017, a bridge connecting Hawk Hollow to Mallard Lake, adding the missing link connecting Cook County to the West Branch DuPage River Trail.

The green meadows and mature woodlands provide a rich habitat for various plants and wildlife. Hawk Hollow is home to several uncommon bird species, including bobolinks, eastern meadowlarks, savanna sparrows, Henslow’s sparrows, and grasshopper sparrows.

This forest preserve is also an excellent location for fishing. The 4-acre Muskrat Pond is home to a variety of fish, from the largemouth bass, blue gill, channel catfish, and crappie to trout. You can reach this pond through a gravel path off Army Trail Road. You will require a valid Illinois fishing license and inland trout stamps (if fishing for trout). You can find maps and other information about rules and regulations related to fishing in Hawk Hollow online.

Hawk Hollow has 5.6 miles of trails connecting to trails in Mallard Lake and West Branch Forest preserves, as well as the Bartlett Park District trail system. Hawk Hollow operates seven days a week, from Monday to Sunday. The trails are well maintained and are suitable for all skill or ability levels. The nature preserve is also dog friendly; a fully fenced 34-acre off-dog leash area has separate areas for large and small dogs. This is open during regular hours of the preserve apart from on Tuesday until 10 am. To go with your dog to spend time at the forest preserve, you will require a valid Forest Preserve District permit for each dog you bring. Dogs need to be kept on a leash other than the off-leash area.

If you are in Bartlett, Hawk Hollow is a great experience. It is located at the intersection of Bartlett and Schick roads.

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