Ryerson Woods Forest Preserve

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Ryerson Conservation Area is one of the best examples of a northern flatwoods forest, a rare northern Illinois landscape. Comprising more than 500 acres, Ryerson Woods supports some of Illinois' most pristine woodlands and several state threatened and endangered species, and offers 5 miles of scenic trails that wind through woods to the Des Plaines River.

A new Welcome Center is now open. The building and grounds were designed as a model of green architecture: environmentally-friendly and energy-efficient.

The preserve’s Greek revival mansion, Brushwood, was once the summer home for the Edward L. Ryerson family of Ryerson Steel fame. The historic structure is now home to the Friends of Ryerson Woods (FRW), a not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting the resources of Ryerson Woods for present and future generations.

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