The best gravel rides around Glencoe
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Gravel biking around Glencoe offers a diverse landscape for riders, characterized by a mix of unpaved trails, forest preserve loops, and paths alongside rivers and lagoons. The region features a dramatic landscape sculpted by ancient volcanic activity and glaciation, encompassing towering mountains, deep glens, and serene lochs. While some routes traverse relatively flat terrain with modest elevations, the varied landscape also provides opportunities for challenging climbs and descents.
Best gravel bike trails around Glencoe
- The most popular gravel bike trail is North Branch Yellow Unpaved Trail, a 10.8 miles (17.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 4 minutes to complete. This easy route features minimal elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Dam Number 1 Woods β Des Plaines River Trail loop from Glencoe, a moderate 41.7 miles (67.1 km) path. This trail follows the Des Plaines River, offering a scenic ride.
- Local gravel bikers also love the North Branch Trail β Skokie Lagoons loop from Wilmette, a 25.5 miles (41.1 km) trail leading through the Skokie Lagoons, often completed in about 2 hours 5 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Glencoe is defined by unpaved paths, forest preserve loops, and river trails. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy to moderate.
- The routes in Glencoe are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 6 reviews. More than 60 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Glencoe's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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17.3km
01:04
20m
20m
This easy 10.8-mile gravel biking route through Skokie Lagoons offers scenic views, wildlife, and a gentle 74 feet of elevation gain.
5.0
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riders
41.1km
02:04
60m
60m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
riders
67.0km
03:26
140m
140m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Dam No.1 Woods is a great spot to rest and recharge along the Des Plaines River Trail. With two sheltered picnic groves, itβs an ideal place for a lunch break. The scenic surroundings make it a relaxing stop, whether you're out for a casual family ride, just starting your cycling journey, or looking for a quick breather on a longer ride.
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MacArthur Woods is a preserved forest that showcases the original landscape of the eastern Des Plaines River Valley. The area features a diverse mix of plants, creating an important habitat for breeding forest birds, including the brown creeper, red-shouldered hawk, broad-winged hawk, veery, pileated woodpecker, and several rare warblers.
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You can follow the trail for 56 miles along the Des Plaines River with gorgeous views of local preserves, watersheds, forests, and marshes. The trail is wide packed gravel and shared with hikers and the occasional horseback rider. Here your pass through the County Forest Preserve which has its own scenic trail network.
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The Des Plaines River Trail stretches over 56 miles along the Des Plaines River, offering a scenic natural escape through Lake and Cook Counties, just outside Chicago. This multi-use trail features a mix of surfaces, including pavement, crushed stone, and single-track forest paths, making for an exciting and varied biking experience. The northern sections are well-maintained and popular, while the southern portions become narrower and more rugged. This particular portion of the Des Plaines River Trail passes through Half Day Forest Preserve with nice views of the river and several ponds.
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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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Des Plaines River Trail is a popular 2 mile popular gravel trail located near Mettawa, Illinois, that runs largely along the water. It is popular with cyclists, walkers, runners, and the occasional horseback rider.
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The Des Plains River Trail follows its namesake river for nearly 30 miles through over a dozen parks and nature preserves. It's a multi-use trail so keep an eye our for hikers and runners. Also, the fall color season is a particularly gorgeous time to ride.
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Dam No.1 Woods offers a delightful outdoor experience with two sheltered picnic groves for a post-activity lunch. Whether you prefer hiking, running, cross-country skiing, biking, or horseback riding, these woods provide a scenic backdrop.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Glencoe?
There are 7 gravel bike trails around Glencoe listed in this guide, offering a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options to suit various skill levels.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly gravel bike routes in Glencoe?
Yes, Glencoe offers several easy gravel routes perfect for beginners. A good option is the Dam Number 1 Woods β Des Plains River Trail loop from Kennicott Grove, which is 22.5 km long and follows the scenic Des Plaines River.
What are some options for more advanced gravel bikers in Glencoe?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, consider the Dam Number 1 Woods β Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds loop from Wilmette. This route spans over 86 km and features more significant elevation changes, making it our most difficult rated trail in the area.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking options in Glencoe?
Many of the easier routes are suitable for families. The trails often feature relatively flat terrain through forest preserves, providing a safe and enjoyable environment. The North Branch Yellow Unpaved Trail is an excellent choice, being 17.3 km with minimal elevation gain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Glencoe's gravel bike trails?
Glencoe's gravel bike trails primarily consist of unpaved paths, forest preserve loops, and routes alongside rivers and lagoons. The terrain is generally modest in elevation, offering a mix of packed gravel and natural surfaces.
Are there circular gravel bike routes available in Glencoe?
Yes, many of the routes around Glencoe are designed as loops. For example, the North Branch Trail β Skokie Lagoons loop from Wilmette offers a 41 km circular ride through varied landscapes.
What are some scenic viewpoints or attractions along the gravel trails?
The trails often pass through beautiful natural areas. You can enjoy views of the Skokie Lagoons, ride through the Harms Woods Preserve, or explore the Dam Number 1 Woods. The BahΓ‘ΚΌΓ House of Worship Wilmette is also a notable landmark nearby.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Glencoe?
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Glencoe, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter riding is possible, but trails may be affected by snow or ice.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Glencoe?
The gravel biking routes in Glencoe are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 5.0 stars. Riders frequently praise the well-maintained unpaved paths and the serene natural beauty of the forest preserves and lagoons.
Are there any facilities like cafes or pubs near the gravel trails in Glencoe?
Glencoe and its surrounding communities offer various amenities. While specific cafes or pubs might not be directly on every trail, you'll find options in the nearby towns and villages, often just a short detour from the main routes.
How long do the gravel bike trails in Glencoe typically take to complete?
The duration varies significantly by route and your pace. Easy routes like the North Branch Yellow Unpaved Trail can be completed in just over an hour, while longer, more challenging routes such as the Dam Number 1 Woods β Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds loop from Wilmette can take over six hours.
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