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Preserve history
The 107-acre Isle a la Cache was acquired between 1982 and 2014.
The preserve is part of the Des Plaines River preservation system, which conserves more than 2,400 acres.
Prior to the District’s acquisition of the land, it may have been used by French voyageurs in the 1700s to cache the supplies and goods they traded with Native Americans.
PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE ON THIS PRESERVE'S INTERACTIVE MAP
Natural resources
Isle a la Cache protects a diversity of habitats, including forest, prairie, wetland and a portion of the Des Plaines River.
Wildlife found at the preserve includes bird species such as the belted kingfisher and hooded merganser.
The preserve is also home to a variety of plant species, including black ash and chinquapin oak.
Amenities and activities
Trails
Isle a la Cache features 0.12 mile of natural surface trail, ideal for the following activities:
- Hiking/running
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowshoeing
The preserve also provides a 0.32-mile trail connection (via 135th Street) to the paved, 3.26-mile Centennial Trail/Veterans Memorial Trail and a 0.57-mile connection to the 7.57-mile, crushed limestone I&M Canal Trail ideal for the following activities:
- Biking
- Hiking/running
- In-line skating (on 3.26-mile paved segment north of 135th Street)
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowshoeing
Fishing
The preserve offers access to shoreline fishing on the Des Plaines River. State and District regulations apply.
Canoeing/kayaking
The preserve features a canoe/kayak launch on the Des Plaines River. No launch pass is required.
Picnicking
The preserve offers one picnic shelter for rental, Island Shelter, which has a permit capacity of 150 people.
Geocaching
Permits are available for geocaching at this preserve.
Visitor center
Isle a la Cache features the Isle a la Cache Museum, which offers historical education opportunities for families, school groups and youth groups. The Isle a la Cache Museum is open to the public free of charge. It also offers picnic, camping and dog park permits for purchase.
