Are dogs allowed on Chicago Riverwalk?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Chicago Riverwalk but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Chicago Riverwalk?

No, Chicago Riverwalk does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Chicago Riverwalk?

Chicago Riverwalk is rated moderate. It is 3.4 miles long with 879 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Illinois trail conditions

ModerateOut and Back

Illinois

Chicago Riverwalk

Chicago, Illinois

3.4 mi

Distance

879 ft

Elev. Gain

1h 9m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Moderate

Difficulty

About This Trail

The Chicago Riverwalk is a multi-use public open space located on the south bank of the main branch of the Chicago River in Chicago, extending from Lake Michigan and the Outer Drive Bridge westward to the Wolf Point area and Lake Street. The Chicago Riverwalk contains restaurants, bars, cafes, small parks, boat and kayak rentals, a Vietnam War memorial, and other amenities.

Source: Wikipedia — text licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Verify trail conditions and seasonal closures with the managing agency before you go.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Elevation Profile

Min:171 ft

Max:224 ft

268 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Reviews

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.