The best MTB trails around Northfield
5.0
(5)
21
riders
9
rides
If you've ever tried to plan mountain biking around Northfield, you know how quickly the options can feel overwhelming. With so many trails winding through the area, it's tough to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – you want the good stuff, not endless scrolling.
That's where we come in. Our komoot community has ridden, reviewed, and mapped the best mountain bike trails in Northfield, Illinois. We've sifted…
Last updated: May 28, 2026
5.0
(5)
5
riders
23.7km
01:41
30m
30m
The Des Plaines River Trail is a true Chicagoland gem, offering a serene mountain biking escape through a varied landscape of woodlands, wetlands, and prairies. You'll ride alongside the Des…
5.0
(2)
2
riders
47.5km
02:25
70m
70m
The North Branch and North Shore Channel Trail Loop offers a varied biking experience, predominantly on paved multi-use paths, but with delightful unpaved sections for mountain bikers seeking a casual…
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40.8km
02:06
60m
60m
The North Branch and North Shore Channel Trail Loop offers a fantastic blend of urban convenience and natural beauty, perfect for a varied mountain biking outing. You'll pedal through lush…
6
riders
34.0km
01:50
60m
60m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
The Skokie Lagoons – Harms Woods Preserve loop offers a unique mountain biking experience, blending tranquil natural scenery with varied terrain surprisingly close to urban Chicago. You'll ride through lush…
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Tips from the Community
The southern portion of Skokie Lagoons is where the North Branch Paved Red Trail runs through a shaded area alongside the Skokie River West Ditch—a refreshing and less busy stretch to ride near the lagoons.
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Just easy walk. No special equipment required. Good and comfortable shoes only😁
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From this grassy spot you get a lovely view of Skokie Lagoon No. 3. This lagoon is part of the Skokie Lagoons nature preserve, located in Glencoe and Winnetka, Illinois. This lagoon is one of seven interconnected lagoons spanning 190 acres, managed by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County. The lagoons were created by the Civilian Conservation Corps between 1933 and 1940, transforming a marshy area into the artificial lagoons seen today. On hot days you might see folks fishing, and kayaking. This is a great spot to rest and relax before continuing on your ride.
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Practice area with small and large obstacles. Use at your own risk!
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Beautiful sculpture park by various artists
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The trails surrounding Skokie Lagoon are smoothly paved and include gentle hills. Truly a lovely path two steps away from the Chicago Botanic Gardens!
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The trails surrounding Skokie Lagoon are smoothly paved and include gentle hills. Truly a lovely path two steps away from the Chicago Botanic Gardens!
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The views of the lagoon are lovely, giving a chance to enjoy a peaceful moment away from traffic and noise of the city. There are picnic benches here if you would like to take a break.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in Northfield, Illinois?
Northfield, Illinois, offers 9 mountain bike trails, catering to various skill levels. These trails are primarily characterized by riverine and channel-side paths, providing scenic routes through natural areas.
What is the typical difficulty level of mountain bike trails in Northfield?
The mountain bike trails in Northfield are generally easy to moderate. There are 3 easy routes and 6 moderate routes, making the area accessible for a wide range of riders. The terrain is mostly flat with minimal elevation changes, ideal for endurance and scenic exploration.
Are there any family-friendly mountain bike trails in Northfield?
Yes, Northfield offers several easy mountain bike trails suitable for families. The flat terrain along the Des Plaines River and North Shore Channel makes for enjoyable rides without significant challenges. An example is the Des Plaines River Trail, which is an easy, continuous path through natural surroundings.
What are some scenic mountain bike trails in Northfield?
Many trails in Northfield offer scenic views, particularly those following the Des Plaines River and North Shore Channel. The North Branch and North Shore Channel Trail Loop provides varied scenery combining river and channel-side riding. The Skokie Lagoons – North Branch Black Paved Trail loop from Glenview also offers picturesque views through the Skokie Lagoons area.
Are there any circular mountain bike trails in Northfield?
Yes, Northfield features several circular mountain bike trails. A popular option is the North Branch and North Shore Channel Trail Loop, which combines river and channel-side riding. Another is the Skokie Lagoon 5 – Skokie Lagoons loop from Glencoe, offering a longer, moderate ride around the lagoons.
What can I see along the mountain bike trails in Northfield?
While riding the trails in Northfield, you can explore various natural and man-made attractions. Highlights include Skokie Lagoon No. 3, the Harms Woods Preserve, and the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park. These offer opportunities to enjoy nature and art along your ride.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about Northfield's trails?
The mountain bike trails in Northfield are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 14 reviews. Riders often praise the accessible, generally flat terrain, which is perfect for longer rides, and the scenic beauty of the riverine and channel-side paths.
What is the best season for mountain biking in Northfield?
Given the region's characteristics, spring, summer, and fall are generally the best seasons for mountain biking in Northfield. The trails follow waterways, so it's advisable to check local conditions, especially during spring, as trails along the Cannon River (in nearby Northfield, MN, which shares similar riverine characteristics) may experience closures due to flooding.
How long are the mountain bike trails in Northfield?
The mountain bike trails in Northfield vary in length. For example, the Des Plaines River Trail is about 14.7 miles (23.7 km) long, while the North Branch and North Shore Channel Trail Loop extends to 29.5 miles (47.5 km). You can find routes suitable for shorter outings or longer endurance rides.
Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest near the trails?
Yes, beyond the natural beauty, you can find interesting landmarks. The Baháʼí House of Worship Wilmette is a notable architectural landmark nearby. Additionally, the Grosse Point Lighthouse offers a historical point of interest not far from the trail network.
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