Salt Creek Trail System

Click on the map above to download an Adobe Acrobat PDF of the Salt Creek Trail System Map. ("sc_trailmap.pdf" - 2.25MB)

The Salt Creek Trail is a class I bicycle trail located in west central Cook County, Illinois. The trail starts in Bemis Woods South and continues east 6.6 miles to Brookfield Woods, directly across from the Brookfield Zoo.

The trail winds through the wooded Forest Preserves as it follows Salt Creek, providing access to various picnic groves and other points of interest. This trail offers bicycle riders a scenic and relaxing route to the Brookfield Zoo.

The Salt Creek Trail follows the banks of Salt Creek, offering bicycle riders a variety of ways to enjoy the Forest Preserve. Pack your bicycle and a picnic lunch in your car and drive to Bemis Woods South. Then park your car and pedal your way east to Brezina Woods for a quiet picnic. You may want to get an earlier start and ride to the Brookfield Zoo for a full afternoon of enjoyment. If you’re looking for some exercise, determine a specific course and ride it regularly. Whether it’s for exercise or relaxation, plan a time now to get out and enjoy beautiful Cook County.

Trail Rules

All Trails:

1. Trails are open from sunrise to sunset.
   
2. Motor vehicles prohibited.
   
3. RIDE/WALK ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE TRAIL.
   
4. Give warning before passing other trail users.
   
5. Obey all stop signs.
   
6. Speed training or racing is NOT PERMITTED. Violators will be ticketed.
   
7. Keep dogs leashed and in control.
   
8. Please do not litter. Pack out more than you pack in.
   
9. Helmets are required for all bicycle riders 14 years and younger (effective Jan. 1, 2005).
   
10. In case of an emergency - call 911.
    

Paved Trails:

1. Stay in your own lane.
   
2. WALK all bicycles down overpasses where designated.
   

Unpaved Trails:

1. Bicyclists and equestrians must stay on the designated trail.
   
2. No off-trail riding.
   
3. Bicyclists must yield to hikers and equestrians.
   
4. Hikers must yield to equestrians.
   
5. 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...