The owners of the trail give the financial backing and maintenance support for
keeping the trails open to bicyclists. All they ask for in return is respect of
their rules. Remember, when a bicyclist violates these rules, it sends a message to
the owners of the trail to eliminate the right to bicycle on the trails. So follow
these simple rules:
From the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County:
Trails have long been a vital part of human and wildlife history by linking them from
one place to another. The enduring qualities of trails are proven with the simple animal
path making way for the rutted wagon trail, the paved county road and the sweeping super
highway.
Today, while many of the original trails of DuPage County have made the transformation
to paved streets and roads, there are still plenty of nature trails to discover. From the
seldom-traveled footpath to the multi-purpose trails that transect the county, the Forest
Preserve District of DuPage County is very privileged to have one of the finest trail
systems in the greater Chicago area. With nearly 100 miles of trails maintained by the
District, trail users have a variety of paths to follow. By taking a few minutes to study
the trails matrix, trail users can choose the perfect route to hike, jog, bike, ski or
horseback ride for an hour or for the whole day. Getting to a trail is no problem, because
there is a forest preserve trail system within a 10-minute drive from anywhere in DuPage
County.
When you decide to visit a forest preserve, pick up a preserve map. Maps are available
for the more heavily used preserves from the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County's
headquarters at 120 E. Liberty Dr. in Wheaton, (630) 933-7200. Some maps are available at
the Visitor Information signs in each of the preserves as well.
THE MULTI-PURPOSE TRAIL
Most trails in DuPage County forest preserves that are eight feet wide are open to many
kinds of uses. They are designed specifically for hikers, joggers, cyclists, cross-county
skiers and horseback riders. Nearly 40 miles of multi-purpose trails are available that
are made of crushed limestone screenings. This surface is excellent for walking, hiking
and jogging because it is soft enough to absorb some impact, yet is firm enough for
bicycles. Unauthorized vehicles are prohibited.
TRAIL ETIQUETTE
With a few simple rules and common courtesy, the District trail system can accommodate a
variety of trail users. The following are some tips on proper trail use for everyone's
safety and enjoyment:
- Remember: YOU ARE NOT THE ONLY ONE USING THE TRAIL. Please be considerate of other trail
users.
- Slower traffic should stay to the right. Bikes should pass only on the left. A polite
call of "PASSING ON YOUR LEFT" can help to warn others of your approach from
behind.
- Please leave room on the trail for others to pass. Single file is the best procedure for
groups of people on busy days.
- Remember that horses startle easily. Be extra careful when approaching horses, and give
them as much room as possible.
- When there is snow on the ground, make every effort to avoid walking or riding in ski
tracks. Skiers are encouraged to use the outside edges of the trail with all others using
the inside of the trail.
- Be aware of wildlife both on and off the trail. Remember, you are a visitor in their
habitat. With proper care, the next trail user will also be able to enjoy viewing
wildlife.
- Dogs are welcome on trails. Please keep them leashed at all times, even if you appear to
be the only one on the trail.
- Note: DuPage County also has a rule which states that bicycles are only
allowed on trails that are eight (8) feet wide or greater.
KEEP BIKIN'!
Bicycle riders must take special care when riding on Forest Preserve District trails:
- Please ride only on multi-purpose trails. If a Forest Preserve District road or trail is
posted with a sign showing a bike symbol with a slash, the trail is off-limits to bicycles
due to dangerous or environmentally sensitive conditions.
- Please stay on the right-hand side of the trail, except when passing on the left from
behind.
- Always ride single file, especially when passing others on the left.
- Always ride under control and watch your speed, especially around curves.
- Be aware of changing trail conditions.
