Northerly Island Natural Area

Northerly Island Natural Area juts south into Lake Michigan and is teeming with diverse native prairie, savanna, wetland, and aquatic habitats. Its six-acre pond is directly connected to Lake Michigan at the southern end of the peninsula. A retaining wall from the 1933 World’s Fair remains at the center of the pond and serves as a popular hangout for wetland birds and other wildlife.

Surrounding the pond is a paved multi-use trail the meanders through upland prairie and savanna habitats. Hills up to fifty feet tall form a dramatic landscape with the Chicago skyline as a backdrop.

Help keep wildlife wild, safe, and healthy by following posted signage and Natural Areas Rules and Regulations. For questions regarding Chicago Park District Natural Areas, email nature@chicagoparkdistrict.com.