Rail to Trail Project

The Virgil L. Gilman Nature Trail, includes two abandoned railroad right-of-ways. Beginning at Business Rt. 30 near Montgomery Road, the trail stretches west, a distance of approximately 11.2 miles to Waubonsee Community College. The Virgil L. Gilman Trail was constructed by the Fox Valley Park District and the Kane County Forest Preserve District.

The Virgil L. Gilman Trail crosses Waubonsee Creek. Beyond the creek are wetlands, filled with small birds and waterfowl. Ducks, heron and shore birds visit the marsh on their migratory flights. Redwing blackbirds, the Downy Woodpeck, Cardinals, Bluejays can be seen along the path, as well as wildflowers and small patches of native prairie. Cottonwoods, White Poplars, Sycamores, White and Black Oak add to the sights to be seen. A truss bridge connects the two shores of the Fox River.

Trail Distance: 11.2 miles
Trail Surface: Limestone screenings
Type of Use: Tour, Leisure
Towns: Aurora, Sugar Grove
County: Kane
Intensity of Use: Unknown
Setting: Wetlands, forest, urban, prairie.
Connecting Trail: none
Directions for parking: Parking is accessible from various points on the trail.  See the map for details.
Trail Map:

Map courtesy of Kane County Forest Preserve District

Rider's Comments: We have ridden this trail often. Positives: Gets you out to open roads through congested Aurora. Mostly crushed limestone. Lots of shade in the summer. There is (can't remember the name) a Farm/Park for the family to visit. Bliss Campground, just before Route 47, is good camping. Not so positive: Four or five very dangerous blind spots built into the trail require you to call out, "Heads up" or Bicyclist" very loudly. Must slow to 3mph to negotiate. All trails...multi use paths... are not safe for any bicycling over 10-12mph. Too many peds, kids on little bikes. It is not responsible bicycling to go over 12mph on these paths on Saturday/Sunday.  Freda Brown, Schaumburg Bicycle Club, Schaumburg Illinois

For Detailed Information Contact:
Fox Valley Park District
PO Box 818
712 South River
Aurora IL 60507
630 897-0516

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