North Branch Trail – Skokie Lagoons loop from Wilmette

North Branch Trail – Skokie Lagoons loop from Wilmette

Moderate

4.6

(1657)

13,865

riders

North Branch Trail – Skokie Lagoons loop from Wilmette

02:00

40.9km

60m

Gravel riding

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: September 10, 2026

Tips

Cycling is not permitted along parts of this route

After 0 m for 214 m

After 40.8 km for 214 m

Waypoints

Start point

Train Station

Get Directions

8.54 km

North Branch Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

This trail system provides a choice between paved and unpaved trails, offering over 20 miles winding through various preserves and along the North Branch Chicago River.

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12.5 km

Linne Woods Preserve

Highlight • Forest

Linne Woods Preserve is a nature preserve in Morton Grove, Illinois. A number of trails pass through the property, which is centered around the wetland and forest ecosystems created by …

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18.1 km

Blue Star Memorial Woods Preserve

Nature Reserve

20.0 km

Deer in Watersmeet Woods

Highlight • Forest

If you are running along the North Branch Red Paved Trail or the dirt horse trail that follows the Skokie River, you'll pass through a bunch of different parks and …

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23.5 km

Skokie Lagoon #1

Lake

26.2 km

Skokie Lagoon No. 3

Highlight • Lake

Skokie Lagoons are a series of lagoons in this nature preserve managed by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County. Though bordered by roads, it's a nice little nature escape …

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26.4 km

North Branch Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

The North Branch Trail is a 20-mile paved trail that follows the North Branch of the Chicago River. The trail winds through forests and fields, so keep your eye out for wildlife, especially deer.

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27.5 km

Erickson Woods

Highlight • Trail

This park provides seven miles of shaded paved trails throughout the Skokie Lagoons. The views of the lush trees and blue waters create a peaceful setting for a run.

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27.6 km

The southern portion of Skokie Lagoons is where the North Branch Paved Red Trail runs through a shaded area alongside the Skokie River West Ditch—a refreshing and less busy stretch to ride near the lagoons.

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28.5 km

Skokie Lagoons

Highlight • Lake

Skokie Lagoons are a beautiful lagoon system to the north of Chicago. A nature preserve, the area is rich in plant, bird and animal life, so there are plenty of …

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