Des Plaines River Trail

The trail features a varied surface, including pavement, crushed stone, dirt, and even single-track forest sections. The northern 20 miles in Lake County are generally well-maintained crushed gravel. As you head south into Cook County, the surface can become rougher with more natural dirt, rocks, and roots, and is more prone to mud and flooding after heavy rains.

The trail is particularly beautiful in the fall when the leaves change colors. Spring and summer are also popular, but be aware that sections, especially in the south, can flood after heavy rains. Always check conditions before you go, especially if planning a ride after significant rainfall.

Given the varied and sometimes rough terrain, particularly in Cook County, a hybrid, gravel, or mountain bike is advisable. Road bikes are generally not recommended due to the unpaved and potentially muddy sections.

The route offers diverse scenery, including woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. You'll pass through numerous forest preserves. Some specific highlights include Dam Number 1 Woods, Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds, and MacArthur Woods Forest Preserve. The landscape changes from wide valleys in the north to narrower, more wooded areas in the south.

Yes, the Des Plaines River Trail is a key link in a larger regional network. It connects with other trails like the North Branch Trail and Green Bay Trail. The route also passes through sections of the Middlefork Greenway and the Everett Road Bike Path.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Des Plaines River Trail and within the Lake County Forest Preserves and Forest Preserves of Cook County. They must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and under control at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required for general use of the Des Plaines River Trail or the forest preserves it passes through in Lake and Cook Counties. However, specific activities or events might require permits, so it's always good to check with the respective forest preserve districts if you have special plans.

The trail has numerous access points and parking lots along its 56-mile length, as it winds through various forest preserves. Popular access points include those within Independence Grove Forest Preserve and Van Patten Woods in Lake County, which often have ample parking and amenities. For specific parking locations, consult a detailed map of the Lake County Forest Preserves and Forest Preserves of Cook County.

The preserved corridor along the river is a haven for wildlife. You can frequently spot deer, various bird species, snakes, and turtles. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially in the more secluded wetland and woodland areas.

The northern sections of the trail in Lake County, with their well-maintained crushed gravel surfaces and fewer road crossings, are generally more suitable for families and less experienced cyclists. The southern sections in Cook County can be more challenging due to rougher terrain and potential flooding, making them less ideal for young children or those on less robust bikes.

Yes, the trail passes through or near several forest preserves that offer amenities. Independence Grove Forest Preserve, for example, provides lake views, boat rentals, and even a café. Many towns and communities are also accessible from the trail, offering various dining options and facilities, particularly in the northern suburbs of Chicago.

If you plan to cycle the entire length, especially after heavy rains, consider starting your ride from the northern, Lake County sections. These parts are generally better maintained and less prone to severe flooding than the southern Cook County segments, which can become impassable. Always check current trail conditions before embarking on a full-length ride.