Northerly Island Natural Area

Across the 119-acre park, sculpted hills up to 50 feet tall rise above the water against the backdrop of the city. At the southern end, a six-acre pond connected to Lake Michigan anchors the aquatic habitat, centered on an old retaining wall from the 1933 World’s Fair that now serves as a regular perch for wetland birds and wildlife. Circling the water, a paved multi-use trail meanders through upland prairie and savanna, offering a peaceful route for walking and birdwatching.