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North Branch Trail System
Click on the map above to download an Adobe Acrobat PDF of the North or South sections of the North Branch Trail System Map.
The North Branch Trail System is a Class I bicycle trail located in northwestern Cook County, Illinois. The trail starts at Caldwell and Devon Avenues in Chicago, and continues north approximately twenty (20) miles to Lake County, Illinois.
The trail winds along the North Branch of the Chicago River and the Skokie Lagoons, providing access to various picnic groves, golf courses and also the Chicago Botanic Garden. This trail will eventually connect the Green Bay Bicycle Trail as shown on the map.
The North Branch Trail offers bicycle riders many opportunities for fun, exercise and relaxation. You may want to pack a lunch and ride to pack a lunch and ride to the Chicago Botanic Garden or to one of the picnic groves along the trail. If you’re trying to get back into shape, determine a specific course from the map, and ride it regularly. There are plenty of places to stop and rest along the way, where you can get a drink of cold water from one of the convenient wells. Whether it’s the whole day or just an hour, plan time right now to get out and enjoy the beauty nature offers right in your own back yard.
Trail Rules
All Trails:
- Trails are open from sunrise to sunset.
- Motor vehicles prohibited.
- RIDE/WALK ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE TRAIL.
- Give warning before passing other trail users.
- Obey all stop signs.
- Speed training or racing is NOT PERMITTED. Violators will be ticketed.
- Keep dogs leashed and in control.
- Please do not litter. Pack out more than you pack in.
- Helmets are required for all bicycle riders 14 years and younger (effective Jan. 1, 2005).
- In case of an emergency - call 911.
Paved Trails:
- Stay in your own lane.
- WALK all bicycles down overpasses where designated.
Unpaved Trails:
- Bicyclists and equestrians must stay on the designated trail.
- No off-trail riding.
- Bicyclists must yield to hikers and equestrians.
- Hikers must yield to equestrians.
- Do not use trails when muddy.
Trail Signage:
New Trail System Markers
Click here to view the new trail signs that are found on the trail systems. ("FPDtrail_signage.pdf" - 730K)
Before Planning a Special Event
Permission is required for all special events to be held on the bicycle trail involving more than 25 persons. For further information, call the FPDCC at (708) 366-9420.
Return to the Trail System Maps page...
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