Are dogs allowed on Des Plaines River Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Des Plaines River Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Des Plaines River Trail?

No, Des Plaines River Trail 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 Des Plaines River Trail?

Des Plaines River Trail is rated easy. It is 10.6 miles long with 692 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.

What is the best season to hike Des Plaines River Trail?

Des Plaines River Trail is best hiked in spring, summer, and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

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

EasyPoint to Point

Illinois

Des Plaines River Trail

Oak Park, Illinois

10.6 mi

Distance

692 ft

Elev. Gain

3h 38m

Est. Time

Point to Point

Route Type

Easy

Difficulty

About This Trail

The Des Plaines River Trail is a 10.6-mile point-to-point trail located near Oak Park, Illinois. The trail offers a scenic route along the Des Plaines River, with gently rolling terrain and a dirt surface, making it accessible for a variety of outdoor activities. With an elevation gain of 692 feet, the trail is generally considered easy, suitable for hikers of most skill levels. It provides a peaceful outdoor experience within proximity to urban areas.

From Wikipedia

The Des Plaines River Trail is a recreational multiuse trail that follows the course of the Des Plaines River through most of Lake and part of Cook County in northeast Illinois in the United States. This trail connects with the North Branch Trail and Green Bay Trail.

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.

Hazards & Warnings

dirt surfacepotential muddy conditions

Elevation Profile

Min:190 ft

Max:210 ft

211 ft

213 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Point to Point
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.

Best Seasons

Spring Summer Fall

Highlights

river viewswooded surroundings

Reviews

No reviews yet

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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.