Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area, Riverwoods

About Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area

Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area is a 565-acre nature preserve in Riverwoods offering trails through rare plant communities and habitats for wildlife observation. Visitors hike marked pathways to explore prairies, wetlands, and woodlands that support uncommon species throughout the seasons. The Edward L. Ryerson Welcome Center serves as a starting point, providing information and resources for exploring the preserve. The conservation area opens at 6:30 a.m. daily and remains accessible until sunset, allowing visitors flexibility for morning walks or afternoon outings. Families and nature enthusiasts can spend anywhere from a brief hour to a full day traversing the network of trails at their own pace. The preserve suits anyone interested in ecology, plant identification, or simply walking through natural landscapes without developed attractions or structures. Located on North Riverwoods Road in Riverwoods, the area preserves significant natural communities for education and recreation.