Swallow Cliff Area Cross-Country Ski Trail

Persons may Cross Country Ski in all areas of the Forest Preserve District of Cook County (except in Special Use Areas) from sunrise to sunset, seven (7) days a week.

The rolling terrain of the Swallow Cliff area offers excellent skiing for beginners and advanced skiers alike. Swallow Cliff also provides cross county ski rental, warming shelter and heated rest rooms. This area is located near the intersection of Illinois Route 83 and U.S. Highway 45, just west of Palos Park.

Swallow Cliff Area Cross-Country Ski Trail Map

Rules of the Trail

Following these rules for cross-country conduct will make your skiing safer and more fun.

1. RESPECT OTHERS: Ski so that you don’t endanger or offend others.
   
2. SKI RIGHT: Ski the right-hand track. Groups should ski single file on the right side of the trail.
   
3. MEETING: Keep to the right when meeting. On hills, downhill skiers have the right of way.
   
4. POLES IN: Keep your poles close to your body when near other skiers.
   
5. KEEP TRAILS CLEAR: If you stop, get out of the track. If you fall, get up and out of the track quickly.
   
6. WATCH YOUR SPEED: Suit your skiing speed to your personal ability, the terrain, visibility especially on hills. Keep a safe distance from skiers ahead. As a last resort, fall intention-ally to avoid a collision.
   
7. DON’T LITTER: Don’t carry in what you cannot carry out. Carrying litter is easy — it’s light.
   

Return to Cross-Country Skiing...