The best gravel rides around Downers Grove
4.6
(16)
192
riders
27
rides
Gravel bike trails around Downers Grove are characterized by extensive crushed limestone paths that traverse DuPage County's diverse natural landscape. The region features numerous forest preserves, glacial formations, and a network of multi-use trails suitable for gravel cycling. This area offers a mix of flat, straight sections and routes with gentle elevation changes, providing varied terrain for riders.
Best gravel bike trails around Downers Grove
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Herrick Lake – Silver Lake Lakeside View loop…
Last updated: July 13, 2026
5.0
(1)
24
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
17
riders
68.3km
03:23
220m
220m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
14
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
45.1km
02:17
130m
130m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
riders
44.5km
02:33
190m
190m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This is awesome gravel loop around the Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve. Gravel biker and newbies on a mountain bike will love it! The multi-use path it also a great option for families with children.
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The multi-use Veterans Memorial Trail connects or intersects with a number of other area trails, allowing you to ride, uninterrupted for miles. It also passes through Black Partridge Woods and Wood Ridge Forest Preserves.
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This is where the Wheaton Bike Route Network intersects with Illinois Prairie Path Aurora Branch. While most parts of the Illinois Prairie Path is unpaved, it is hard packed stone, so you could ride it with a road bike with thicker tires.
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The West Branch DuPage River Trail is a paved path that runs along the river, shaded and lined with plenty of wildflowers and trees.
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Sawmill Creek offers a charming spot to see damselflies, and a small bridge that occasionally floods. The area is peaceful and a nice spot along Waterfall Glenn Main Trail.
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Step back in time as you explore the historic farmsteads dating to the late 1800s at this site. A rare gabled-roofed farmhouse remains, one of the last of its style in DuPage County, along with a massive wood-planked German barn dating back to 1890, if not earlier. The worn fieldstone foundation of another vintage barn can still be spotted. In the 1920s, Chauncey and Marion McCormick acquired the property, pursuing their passion for horses by building colonial-style red brick stables with imported English iron posts. To support their award-winning herd of Guernsey cows, they constructed an innovative dairy barn with spacious stalls and various outbuildings that set the standard for Midwest farmers. Later, their son Brooks and wife Hope erected the indoor arena that hosted equestrian events and a therapeutic riding program. Today, this charming arena with idyllic river birch views can be rented out for small gatherings, letting you experience the rich agricultural history of this special place.
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St. James Farm Bike Trail is a wide gravel path that weaves through St. James Farm, passing natural beauties like forests, fields, and streams, as well as some interesting man-made features like the "Horse and Hound Cemetery", some naturally planted woods with trees all in a neat row, and even a railroad car on a display can be found on the north end of East Pond.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of gravel bike trails can I expect around Downers Grove?
The gravel bike trails around Downers Grove are predominantly characterized by extensive crushed limestone paths. You'll find these surfaces across various forest preserves and on significant routes like the Illinois Prairie Path. While mostly flat, some sections offer gentle elevation changes, providing a diverse riding experience.
How many gravel bike trails are available in the Downers Grove area?
There are over 35 gravel bike routes available around Downers Grove, catering to various skill levels. This includes 9 easy routes, 24 moderate routes, and a few more challenging options for experienced riders.
Are there any easy or family-friendly gravel bike routes?
Yes, Downers Grove offers several easy gravel bike routes suitable for beginners or families. For instance, the Silver Lake Lakeside View – Mount Hoy Summit loop from Glen Ellyn is an easy 18.1-mile path featuring lake views and leading towards Mount Hoy. Many forest preserve trails also provide gentle, accessible rides.
What are some scenic gravel biking options in the region?
For scenic rides, consider routes that wind through the local forest preserves. The Herrick Lake – Silver Lake Lakeside View loop from Wheaton offers beautiful lakeside views and traverses forest preserve areas. Hidden Lake Forest Preserve, in particular, features trails that wind past various bodies of water, including a glacier-dug pond, offering picturesque scenery.
Are there any loop trails for gravel biking around Downers Grove?
Yes, many gravel routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing for convenient circular rides. Examples include the Greene Valley Forest Preserve – Greene Valley Forest Preserve loop from Woodridge, which is a popular 17.9-mile trail through a significant forest preserve, and the Herrick Lake Forest Preserve – Danada Forest Preserve loop from Glen Ellyn.
What natural attractions or landmarks can I see along the gravel bike trails?
The trails often pass through or near significant natural areas. You might encounter the unique glacial kames in Lyman Woods, or the diverse ecosystems of Hidden Lake Forest Preserve, home to King's Grove. The West Branch Riverway Forest Preserve and Danada Forest Preserve are also notable points of interest along some routes.
Is the Illinois Prairie Path suitable for gravel biking in this area?
Yes, the Illinois Prairie Path (IPP) is a significant draw for gravel cyclists in the Downers Grove area. The sections around Downers Grove primarily feature hard-packed crushed limestone, making it ideal for gravel bikes. It offers long-distance riding opportunities and connects through multiple towns.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about riding in Downers Grove?
The gravel biking experience in Downers Grove is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders frequently praise the extensive network of crushed limestone trails, the scenic beauty of the forest preserves, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels.
Are there any specific forest preserves known for good gravel biking?
Several forest preserves offer excellent gravel biking. Hidden Lake Forest Preserve features over 2 miles of crushed gravel and limestone trails. Greene Valley Forest Preserve provides easy gravel loops, and Herrick Lake Forest Preserve is connected to various gravel routes, offering moderate rides with scenic lakeside views.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Downers Grove?
The crushed limestone trails are generally suitable for riding throughout much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter riding is possible, trail conditions can vary with snow and ice, so it's advisable to check local conditions before heading out.
Are there any trails that avoid road crossings?
The West Branch DuPage River Trail system, which winds through forest preserves, features sections specifically designed to minimize road crossings, providing a more continuous and immersive riding experience. While mostly paved, it also offers gravel opportunities.
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