Allison Woods Preserve

The Camp Pine Woods Preserve – Des Plaines River Trail loop from Schiller Park offers a rewarding touring cycling experience, immersing you in a diverse natural landscape right in Cook County, Illinois. You'll pedal through a mosaic of oak-hickory woodlands, maple forests, prairies, and wetlands, all following the Des Plaines River. Expect varied terrain, from crushed limestone to packed dirt and rougher unpaved sections with roots and rocks, especially in the more natural Cook County stretch. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer and hawks as you traverse this green corridor.

This moderate 29.1-mile (46.8 km) loop, with a gentle 220 feet (67 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 51 minutes. It's best suited for cyclists with good fitness and a hybrid, gravel, or mountain bike due to the varied surfaces. Be sure to check trail conditions before you go, as underpasses can flood after heavy rains, potentially blocking your path. Spring and summer are particularly pleasant for this ride.

Beyond the ride itself, the Camp Pine Woods Forest Preserve section has historical ties to a former WWII POW camp, adding a layer of interest to your journey. The Des Plaines River Trail system is extensive, connecting numerous forest preserves and offering a vital natural escape within the greater Chicago metropolitan area. It's a fantastic way to experience the region's ecosystems and spot wildlife.

The Dam Number 1 Woods – Des Plaines River Trail loop from Mount Prospect offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, winding alongside the Des Plaines River through a mix of woodlands, prairies, and savannas. You'll navigate varied terrain, from smooth crushed limestone to natural dirt paths with roots and rocks, providing a constantly changing backdrop for your ride. This moderate 26.0-mile (41.9 km) route, with 223 feet (68 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes, making it a rewarding half-day adventure for those seeking natural features and diverse surfaces.

Planning your visit requires a bit of foresight; always check trail conditions, especially after heavy rains, as sections of the Des Plaines River Trail are prone to flooding. A hybrid, gravel, or mountain bike is highly recommended to comfortably handle the mixed surfaces. You'll find convenient parking at Dam No. 1 Woods, and the trail offers frequent amenities like restrooms and water fountains. For the most vibrant experience, consider cycling in the fall when the foliage transforms into stunning colors.

This segment of the Des Plaines River Trail is a vital green corridor, providing a serene escape into nature within the Chicagoland area. It's renowned for its diverse ecosystems and opportunities for wildlife spotting, including deer and blue herons. The trail's design includes car-free crossings, enhancing safety and continuity, and its seasonal beauty ensures a unique experience whether you visit in spring, summer, or autumn.

The Dam Number 1 Woods – Des Plaines River Trail loop offers a diverse touring cycling experience, winding through woodlands, prairies, savannas, and wetlands right alongside the Des Plaines River. You'll encounter varied terrain, from crushed gravel to dirt and even some narrower, root-filled sections, especially near Dam Number 1 Woods. This route is a natural oasis, providing picturesque river views and opportunities for wildlife spotting, making it a refreshing escape from the urban sprawl.

Planning your ride requires a check on current trail conditions, as sections, particularly underpasses, can flood and become muddy after heavy rains. Hybrid, gravel, or mountain bikes are highly recommended to comfortably navigate the mixed surfaces. Dam Number 1 Woods provides convenient parking and picnic groves, serving as an excellent starting point for this moderate 24.6-mile (39.6 km) loop, which typically takes around 3 hours and 25 minutes.

This trail stands out as a significant green corridor, offering a substantial 24.6-mile (39.6 km) route with a gentle 211 feet (64 metres) of elevation gain, making it suitable for long-distance touring without strenuous climbs. Its extensive length and proximity to Chicago's northern suburbs provide a unique blend of accessibility and immersion in nature. The trail's commitment to preserving diverse ecosystems and wildlife habitat adds to its appeal, especially during the vibrant fall season.