For a view from the treetops, head to the eastern edge of the park, where the Cook Forest Fire Tower rises 80 feet (and 108 steep stairs) into the air. On a clear day, the tower, built in 1929 and ...

In addition to being tall, the trees have some age. There are 18 different species of trees at Cook Forest that are more than 180 years old, and many are much older.

The Forest Preserves of Cook County will begin selling 2017 picnic permits online and in-person Tuesday. 24/7 Live Chicago & Suburban Cook Co. North Suburbs West Suburbs South Suburbs NW Indiana.