Des Plaines River Trail: Lake Cook Road to North Avenue

The trail offers a varied terrain, primarily following the Des Plaines River through woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces including natural dirt paths, gravel, crushed stone, and some paved sections. Be prepared for transitions between these surfaces, as the Cook County portion is known for being less developed with sections of dirt, rocks, and roots.

While some parts of the Des Plaines River Trail are generally considered easy, this specific segment from Lake Cook Road to North Avenue presents a moderate challenge. Its less developed nature, with dirt, rocks, and roots, makes for a more rugged experience. Additionally, sections can become very muddy or impassable after heavy rains or during late winter/early spring due to flooding, so checking conditions beforehand is recommended.

This segment is a natural oasis, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing. You might spot deer, various birds, snakes, and turtles. The trail meanders through numerous forest preserves like Potawatomi Woods, Camp Pine Woods, and Algonquin Woods, offering lush scenery and diverse ecosystems from wide floodplains to wooded corridors. Don't miss the Des Plaines River itself, which is a constant companion.

Yes, the Des Plaines River Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, all dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and under the owner's control at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the trail enjoyable for everyone.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall often offer the most pleasant hiking conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Be aware that sections are prone to flooding and mud after heavy rains or during late winter/early spring, so always check trail conditions before heading out, especially during these periods.

No, there are no entrance fees to access the Cook County Forest Preserves or to use the Des Plaines River Trail for hiking. However, specific activities like fishing or picnicking in designated areas might require permits, so check the Forest Preserves of Cook County website for details if you plan on more than just hiking.

You can access this segment of the Des Plaines River Trail from either end: near Lake Cook Road in the north or North Avenue in the south. There are various parking lots available within the Forest Preserves of Cook County near these access points and along the trail. It's advisable to check a local map for specific parking lot locations closest to your desired starting point.

Yes, this route is a crucial link in a regional network of trails. It largely follows the official Des Plaines River Trail (96% of the route) and also incorporates sections of the OBT-7 (97%), Des Plaines River Trail Yellow Unpaved (45%), and Des Plaines River Orange Trail (North) (24%). It also connects with the Lake County portion of the Des Plaines River Trail at Lake Cook Road.

Beyond the natural beauty, you'll find several interesting spots. Keep an eye out for the Rest Area by the River. The Cook County preserves along the trail also contain remnants of structures built during the New Deal era, including stone bridges and retainer walls. Near Camp Pine Woods Preserve, the area once housed a WWII Nazi POW camp, adding a layer of hidden history to your hike.

Given its length of approximately 43 kilometers (26.7 miles), hiking the entire segment from Lake Cook Road to North Avenue typically takes around 11 hours. This duration can vary significantly based on your pace, the number of stops you make, and trail conditions.

While the trail passes through numerous forest preserves, facilities like restrooms and water sources are not consistently available along the entire 43-kilometer stretch. It's recommended to carry sufficient water and snacks, and plan your stops at known preserve facilities or nearby towns if needed. The Rest Area by the River might offer some basic amenities.