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Routes
Mountain biking trails
United States
Illinois
Cook County

Busse Woods Red Trail

Easy

2.8

(7)

68

riders

Busse Woods Red Trail

00:14

3.07km

10m

Mountain biking

Mountain biking the easy 1.9-mile Busse Woods Red Trail offers a relaxed ride through forests and meadows, with views of Busse Lake and elk.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Waypoints

A

Start point

Parking

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1

574 m

Bridge over Salt Creek

Highlight • Bridge

Nice bridge over Salt Creek on the Busse Forest Red Paved Trail. At this point, Salt Creek is fairly wide and passes through wetlands.

Tip by

2

634 m

Ned Brown Forest Preserve, also known as the Busse Woods, is a 3,558-acre preserve with almost 13 miles of paved trails to ride. This park has an elk pasture and is one of the most popular parks in the state.

Tip by

B

3.07 km

End point

Parking

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Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

2.02 km

766 m

280 m

Surfaces

1.96 km

789 m

293 m

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Elevation

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

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Weather

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Today

Sunday 17 May

28°C

18°C

87 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 27.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Busse Woods Red Trail suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Red Trail is considered easy and is very suitable for beginners and families. It features a primarily paved, largely flat surface with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for various skill levels.

What is the typical length of the Red Trail loop?

While this specific komoot tour covers about 3.1 km, the main Red Trail loop within the Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods) is typically 7 to 7.5 miles (approximately 11 to 12 kilometers) long, offering a continuous paved path for riding.

What kind of terrain can I expect on the trail?

The trail is primarily a well-maintained, paved path. It winds through a mix of wooded areas and open meadows, offering a smooth and enjoyable ride. You'll encounter largely flat sections with very little elevation gain.

What wildlife can I see along the route?

A notable attraction along the trail is the resident elk herd, which you might spot in designated areas. The preserve also offers opportunities to see various birds and other local wildlife as you ride through the natural settings.

What is the best time of year to visit?

The trail is enjoyable year-round, but it's particularly scenic in the fall when the foliage displays vibrant colors. Spring and summer also offer pleasant riding conditions. Be aware that it can get crowded on pleasant weekends.

Are dogs allowed on the Busse Woods Red Trail?

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trails within the Ned Brown Forest Preserve, including the Red Trail. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets.

Do I need a permit or pay an entrance fee for the Ned Brown Forest Preserve?

No, there are typically no entrance fees or permits required to access the trails within the Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods). It's a public forest preserve, making it freely accessible for visitors.

Where can I park to access the Red Trail?

There are several parking lots available around the Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods) that provide access to the Red Trail. Popular access points include parking areas off Higgins Road or Arlington Heights Road. Look for signs indicating trail access.

What notable features or landmarks will I encounter?

You'll ride over an impressive Bridge over Salt Creek, which is one of the highlights. The trail also offers views of Busse Lake and other smaller lakes, and you'll pass through diverse landscapes within the Ned Brown Forest Preserve (Busse Woods).

Does the Red Trail connect to other paths?

Yes, while the Red Trail itself is a continuous loop, it does connect to other spurs and trails within the preserve. Notably, it offers connections to the Salt Creek Greenway Trail, providing options for longer rides if you wish to extend your adventure.

Are there any cafes or restaurants nearby?

The Busse Woods Red Trail is located in Elk Grove Village, which has various dining options. You'll find a selection of cafes and restaurants within a short driving distance from the preserve, particularly along major roads like Higgins Road or Arlington Heights Road.

Nearby routes

Easy

Busse Woods Red Trail

00:14h

3.07km

10m

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