Family-Friendly Bike Trails Around Chicago

Sarah D.:  Northerly Island trails are an extension of the museum campus and Chicago's famous Lakefront Trail. These paved, pristine trails traverse a hilly, lakefront expanse of Illinois prairie and savanna that form a peninsula out into Lake Michigan. Renowned for the presence of migratory birds, Northerly Island is a sanctuary along the shoreline of a bustling city. With easy access via an on-site lot, this sanctuary is the perfect place to spend time in nature.

Sarah Calamita:  The 606 is Chicagos's form of NYC's High Line. It's in a fun, trendy neighborhood with lots of stores and restaurants. Take the blue line to Damen (or hop in a cab) and get on the 606 at Damen Ave. A really great walk, bike, scooter in a fun green space!

Kristy Pepping:  The Tinley Creek Trail System offers three paved loops that go over some smaller hills, through prairies, forests, and next to wetlands and ravines. There are around 27 miles of trails so plenty of paths to explore. Please see the website as to where to access the trails.

Alexandra F.:  This aptly named trail follows the North Branch of the Chicago River, beginning at the Caldwell Woods on the northwest side of Chicago and continuing north to the Chicago Botanic Gardens in Glencoe, where it also connects with the Green Bay Trail. There are various entry points onto the trail, which passes through the Glenview and Erikson Woods and takes a four-mile loop around the Skokie lagoons. Bike rentals are available at several locations, and the route has several rest areas and public restrooms.

Alexandra F.:  The Illinois Prairie Path was North America’s first successful rails-to-trails conversion in the 1960s, and is currently a multi-use nature trail for non-motorized public use. The trail is roughly shaped like a Y: the primarily urban main branch begins in Maywood and continues to Wheaton, where it branches into separate paths to Elgin and Aurora (with additional spurs to Geneva and Batavia). Amenities along the way include bathrooms, drinking fountains, parks and playgrounds.

Chrissy OGorman:  The 9-mile Green Bay Trail runs parallel to Chicago's Metra commuter rail line north of the Chicago city limits. Stretching through North Shore towns such as Kenilworth, Winnetka, Highland Park and Lake Bluff, the corridor is flanked by restaurants, shops, community parks and beautiful homes.

Erika Roh...:  Winding through one of the most beautiful forest preserves in the Western suburbs, Waterfall Glen offers a looped trail of moderate difficulty. This trail offers luscious canopies of various trees, ponds, grasslands and the beautiful waterfall to admire. Be aware that you will have to cross some roads that can get busy at times. There is ample parking throughout their 3 lots to chose from and plenty of benches along the way to take a break and explore on foot. This is a great trail for nature lovers!

Alexandra F.:  This trail along the Des Plaines River passes through Lake and Cook Counties, beginning at its southernmost point in River Grove and stretching north to the IL-WI border, passing through multiple forest preserves along the way. Reviewers have noted that the Lake County portion may provide a smoother ride for families, and that portions of the trail are inaccessible during rainy seasons.

Alexandra F.:  The Ned Brown Preserve, also known as Busse Woods, is a popular trail system in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. The preserve is made up of 3,700 acres surrounding the Busse Reservoir and boasts beautiful natural scenery, including the lake, woods, and an elk pasture. A 7.75 mile paved loop surrounds the Reservoir, with shorter trails leading out of it. The trails offer plenty of places to stop, rest, drink water, and use the restroom along the way.

Alexandra F.:  If a long ride is not in the cards for the little ones, the 1.8 mile bike/walk path around Lake Arlington may be just the thing for your family. Meander your way around the man-made lake at your own pace, stopping for breaks at any of the benches lining the path. Consider renting a paddle-boat or sailboat to complete your relaxing outdoor adventure, or enjoy a picnic or outdoor play time at the small beach or playgrounds by the lake.

Molly Weber:  Enjoy nine miles of paved, vehicle free roads while taking in the beautiful scenery the Morton Arboretum has to offer. You will have plenty of shade during your ride thanks to the gorgeous trees along the path. This is a perfect path for families looking to enjoy a relaxing bike ride together. Bring your own bike or rent one from the Arboretum.

Alexandra F.:  For families with bikers who may want to ride at different speeds, the open sight lines offered by the trail around Maple Lake allows parents to keep an eye on everyone without having to stick too closely together. The trail loops around the lake and adjacent wetlands, offering beautiful views of native wildlife, including great egrets and great blue herons.

Alexandra F.:  This linear park along Lake Michigan is a popular destination for tourists, Chicago residents and suburban neighbors alike. Not only does the trail boast beautiful views of Lake Michigan, but it also traverses many popular amenities and landmarks including the Shedd Aquarium, Navy Pier, Lincoln Park Zoo and the Chicago Children’s Museum. The park also includes some great Chicago beaches, playgrounds and sports fields along its route. Be prepared for crowds, and note that parking may be difficult during peak hours.

Total length: 18.5 miles

Surface: asphalt and concrete

Alexandra F.:  This once-a-year opportunity to bike along Lake Shore Drive takes place every Memorial Day weekend and is open to bikers of all ages and abilities. It is a 30 mile loop, but participants can begin at various access points and ride only as long as they wish, with rest stops along the way. Main festival location: Grant Park.

Alexandra F.:  This well-loved trail runs along both sides of the Fox River between Aurora and Crystal Lake, just west/northwest of Chicago. The trail passes through scenic forest and nature preserves, quaint towns, and crosses six bridges for perfect photo opportunities. Restaurants, cafes and small parks provide plenty of places to stop, rest and eat along the way. The path also links with other trails in the region such as the Prairie Trail in Algonquin, and the Virgil Gilman Trail and Illinois Prairie Path in Aurora.