Trail Distance: 12 Miles
Trail Surface: Packed Dirt
Type of Use: Mountain, Hike, Cross-Country Ski
Towns: Forest Park, River Grove, Des Plaines
County: Cook
Intensity of Use: Moderate
Setting: By O'Hare on the DesPlaines River but wooded.
Connecting Trails: North Branch, 3 miles east on Devon Avenue.
Directions for parking: There are numerous Forest Preserve lots, try Irving Park Road, or Devon, Lawrence, Belmont, Thatcher, and Chicago Avenues.
Trail Map:

Rider's Comments:  If you have ever read James Alexander Thom's book "Follow the River," you will recall it vividly as you make your way along the Des Plaines River. It is far more rugged than one would expect just eleven miles west of the loop. The southernmost portion from Madison Street to North Avenue is the most challenging with steep ravines and surface tree roots. It is easy to lose your way with so many merging side trails. The entire length of this trail never wanders far from a major roadway. The treat is getting the feeling that you are in a wilderness.
Portions of this trail may be underwater after heavy rains. It may frequently be slippery and muddy. Note that the trail disappears on either side of North Ave. Use the sidewalk on the far (east) side of Thatcher -- use caution when crossing.

For Detailed Information Contact:
Indian Boundary Division Headquarters
8800 West Belmont Ave.
Chicago, IL
773-625-0606 (0607)
or
Cook County Forest Preserve District
536 North Harlem Avenue
River Forest, IL 60305

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