🚴♀️ Top 6 Local Bike Trails for Family Rides This Spring
Spring is the perfect season to dust off your bikes and enjoy the blossoming outdoors with your family. For those in the Warrenville, Naperville, Aurora, Batavia, and Geneva areas, there are numerous family-friendly trails that offer scenic views, safe paths, and enjoyable experiences for all ages. Here are our top six picks:
1. Illinois Prairie Path (IPP)
The Illinois Prairie Path (IPP), a 61-mile network of bicycle trails, primarily in DuPage County, Illinois, stretches west into Kane County and east into Cook County. This multi-use trail is largely a rail-to-trail conversion, following the former right-of-way of the Chicago, Aurora, and Elgin Railway. The IPP offers a route for bicycles, along with walking, hiking, and even equestrian use.
2. DuPage River Trail
Located in Naperville, the DuPage River Trail spans approximately 8.23 miles and offers a serene ride along the river. With access points at Whalon Lake and Riverview Farmstead Preserve, families can enjoy nature, spot wildlife, and take breaks at the various parks along the way.
3. Herrick Lake Forest Preserve
Situated near Warrenville, Herrick Lake Forest Preserve boasts about 7 miles of trails that meander through woodlands and prairies. The trails are mostly crushed limestone, providing a smooth ride for bikes. The preserve also offers picnic areas and fishing spots, making it a great day-trip destination.
4. Fox River Trail
Stretching over 40 miles, the Fox River Trail is a gem that winds through several communities, including Oswego, Aurora, Batavia, Geneva, Saint Charles, and Elgin. The trail offers picturesque views of the Fox River, historic sites, and ample spots for picnics. It's mostly flat and paved, making it ideal for families with young riders. In Batavia, the trail connects to the Illinois Prairie Path, providing extended riding options.
5. Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve
This Naperville treasure offers a 6-mile loop trail that's perfect for families seeking a longer ride. The trail traverses open prairies, offering expansive views and opportunities to spot native birds and wildlife. The flat terrain ensures a comfortable ride for all skill levels.
6. Fermilab Trail
Connecting Batavia and Warrenville, the Fermilab Trail spans 5.7 miles and offers a unique experience as it passes through the grounds of the Fermilab National Accelerator Laboratory. The trail is paved and relatively flat, making it suitable for families. Remember to check Fermilab's visitor policies before planning your ride (you’ll need to show a valid Real ID to enter).
BONUS. Virgil Gilman Trail
Primarily located in Aurora and Sugar Grove and spanning close to 12 miles, cycling on the Gilman Trail offers a scenic route through diverse landscapes, from quiet forest paths to bustling neighborhoods, all while enjoying a well-maintained paved surface. The trail itself, named for Virgil L. Gilman, a key figure in the Fox Valley Park District, is a testament to his vision for public access to nature. Biking on the trail is a popular way to get to Splash County which is located about 1/2 way from each end of the trail.
