Grab your camera and catch a shot of untouched Illinois wilderness on an extensive river path. With multiple access points across two counties, the trails are well-known by locals for taking leisurely strolls or walking the dog.

No matter the season, this lovely path will lead you to beautiful landscapes and stunning waterways. Keep reading for fun facts and information about this wonderful trail.

The Des Plaines River flows southward 133 miles through gorgeous nature preserves.
Wikimedia/Wrongdave
Though it begins in southern Wisconsin, the majority of the river spreads throughout northern Illinois.
Wikimedia/Kmusser
Stretching between Lake and Cook Counties, the trail connects the entire Des Plaines River Nature Preserve, so you can explore it by foot.
Wikimedia/greglaskiewicz
The river was once used for transportation by Native Americans, but now the surrounding trails serve for leisure activities like biking and racing.
Wikimedia/Brian
You can enjoy the trails anytime of year. Even winter walks are wonderful.
Facebook/River Trail Nature Center
Much of the trail lies on a flood plain, though, meaning when the water rises, access is occasionally blocked.

Related Stories

It's Impossible Not To Love This Breathtaking Wild Flower Trail In Illinois

It's Impossible Not To Love This Breathtaking Wild Flower Trail In Illinois

 This Just Might Be The Most Underrated Hike In All Of Illinois

This Just Might Be The Most Underrated Hike In All Of Illinois

 The Hiking Trail Hiding In Illinois That Will Transport You To Another World

The Hiking Trail Hiding In Illinois That Will Transport You To Another World
Facebook/River Trail Nature Center
Visit various parks and access points that lie along the trail where locals enjoy cookouts, quiet afternoons, and wildlife watching.
Facebook/River Trail Nature Center
Deer, skunks, birds, and other small North American critters call the nature preserve home and can often be seen from the trails.
Facebook/River Trail Nature Center
Flickr/Brian Plunkett
Bridges and highway overpasses help connect the paths on this extensive trail so that people can better access their communities, nature, and this great state.
Wikimedia/Raftman1979

If you love nature walks, don’t miss 10 Illinois trails you must hike!

Do you enjoy the Des Plaines River Trail? Tell us about it in the comments below!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Illinois