Tomahawk Slough – Palos Red Singletrack Trail loop from Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve
Tomahawk Slough – Palos Red Singletrack Trail loop from Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve
3.3
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85
riders
Tomahawk Slough – Palos Red Singletrack Trail loop from Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve
01:17
15.5km
110m
Mountain biking
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 21, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment that may be dangerous
A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
After 5.88 km for 2.07 km
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
576 m
Maple Lake
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
3.59 km
Tomahawk Slough
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
11.0 km
Palos Red Singletrack Trail
Highlight • MTB Park
Tip by
15.5 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
15.1 km
410 m
Surfaces
7.95 km
6.45 km
677 m
298 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 1 July
35°C
26°C
30 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 28.0 km/h
to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking for a challenging and rewarding mountain biking experience in the Chicago area, the Tomahawk Slough – Palos Red Singletrack Trail loop from Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve is definitely worth your time. This difficult 9.6-mile (15.5 km) route packs in 363 feet (111 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for experienced riders seeking technical singletrack and diverse terrain within the renowned Palos Trail System.
What to expect on Tomahawk Slough – Palos Red Singletrack Trail loop from Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve
This loop takes you on a dynamic journey through dense woodlands, particularly rich around the Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve, one of Illinois's oldest dedicated nature preserves. You'll encounter a mix of rolling hills, tight and twisty singletrack, and wider gravel sections, all while navigating technical challenges like roots, rocks, log jumps, and switchbacks. Keep an eye out for picturesque views of lakes like Maple Lake and Bullfrog Lake, as well as the serene Tomahawk Slough itself. The route demands good fitness and advanced riding skills, especially on its steep climbs and fast descents, making it ideal for those ready for advanced mountain biking near Palos Red Singletrack.
Planning your visit
The trail starts from the Paw Paw Woods Nature Preserve, where parking is available. The Palos Forest Preserve system is known for its well-maintained trails, often thanks to organizations like CAMBr. While the trails are bi-directional, always be aware of other users, including hikers and equestrians. For the best experience and to avoid crowds, consider visiting during off-peak hours or checking for Palos Trail System seasonal considerations, though it's generally accessible year-round.
Trail details
- Distance: 9.6 miles (15.5 km)
- Elevation gain: 363 feet (111 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 17 minutes
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