Walking along the Lake around sunset: safety? (Chicago: neighborhoods, versus)

[bostonguy1960]

Haven't actually walked along the Lake during my very brief visits in '94 and recently in March '11. I was delighted simply cruising back and forth along Lake Shore Drive a couple times (at night and the daytime!). I think it's important to see a city skyline and certain neighborhoods both at night and in the day in order to really get a feel. Still, I realize many don't have time or interest in this type of urban exploration.

If I start my late-afternoon walk at Navy Pier, for instance, should I stroll north or south? Doesn't matter? I want to walk 5-10 miles roundtrip, finishing in the dark. I've seen mention of Belmont Rocks, and beaches called North, Hollywood, Foster, etc. Are they distinct areas, all a bit unique, or do they blend into each other? I realize some beaches may be known more for barbeque or volleyball, for example, versus others for boating...

In Boston, we had another attack of a female jogger at 10 pm last week on the Charles River Esplanade, otherwise a city jewel. Always a few of these incidents annually; I'm sure it's the same along your Lake, unfortunately. Is there an area called an "esplanade" along there or is it a continuous path, simply called the "Lake"? I guess you just may refer to different segments by the beach's name?

Would I encounter many joggers and dog walkers in the early darkness, not needing to worry about crime?

[bostonguy1960]

Ooops, noticed I posted in the suburbs forum. It should be in the regular Chicago forum...