Paths to Follow in Your DuPage Forest Preserves
Trails have long been a vital part of human and wildlife history by linking them from one place to another. The enduring qualities of trails are proven with the simple animal path making way for the rutten wagon trail, the paved county road and the sweeping super highway.
Today, while many of the original trails of DuPage County have made the transformation to paved streets and roads, there are still plenty of nature trails to discover. From the seldom-traveled footpath to the multi-purpose trails that transect the county, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is very privileged to have one of the finest trail systems in the greater Chicago area. With over 100 miles of trails maintained by the District, trail users have a variety of paths to follow. By taking a few minutes to study the trails matrix, trail users can choose the perfect route to hike, jog, bike, ski or horseback ride for an hour or for the whole day. Getting to a trail is no problem, because there is a forest preserve trail system within a 10-minute drive from anywhere in DuPage County.
When you decide to visit a forest preserve, pick up a preserve map. Maps are available for the more heavily used preserves from the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County's headquarters, (630) 933-7200. Some maps are available at the Visitor Information signs in each of the preserves as well.
The Multi-Purpose Trail
Most trails in DuPage County forest preserves that are eight feet wide are open to many kinds of uses. They are designed specifically for hikers, joggers, cyclists, cross-county skiers and horseback riders. Over 40 miles of multi-purpose trails are available that are made of crushed limestone screenings. This surface is excellent for walking, hiking and jogging because it is soft enough to absorb some impact, yet is firm enough for bicycles. Unauthorized vehicles are prohibited.
Trail Etiquette
For the safety and enjoyment of everyone using the trails, please follow these simple rules of common courtesy:
- Slower traffic should stay to the right. Pass only on the left and only when your line of vision is unrestricted. Passing on a blind curve or hiss is risky. A polite call of "Passing on your left" can help warn others of your approach from behind
- Please leave room on the trail for others to pass. Single file is the best procedure for groups of people on a busy day
- Be extra careful when approaching horses. They startle easily, so slow down and give them as much room as possible
- When snow covers the ground, make every effort to avoid walking or riding in ski tracks. Classic cross country skiers are encouraged to use the outside of the trail, with all others using the inside
- Be aware of wildlife both on and off the trail. Remember, you are a visitor in their habitat
- Dogs are welcome on trails, but they must be leashed at all times. As a courtesy to other trail users, please clean up after your dog
- Practice "leave no trace" policies by packing out what you pack in
- To preserve nature's quiet and solitude, refrain from yelling or making any loud sounds
Bikers
Wheels can be a great way to enjoy the beauty of the forest preserves, but cyclists should observe these special considerations:
- Ride only on multipurpose trails that are at least 8 feet wide. If a forest preserve road or trail is posted with a sign showing a bike symbol with a slash, the trail is off-limits to bicycles due to dangerous conditions or ecologically sensitive areas
- Always ride single file on the right hand side of the trail except when passing on the left from behind. Always announce yourself by saying "Passing on your left"
- Travel in a consistent manner
- Do not pass horses on a bridge. A bridge may cause even an experienced horse to be nervous
- Ride under control. Watch your speed, especially on curves and in parking lots
- Be aware of changing trail conditions
Equestrians
As with cyclists, special care must be taken by horseback riders when using forest preserve trails:
- Horses must be kept under control at all times. Horse racing is strictly prohibited
- Horses are prohibited in all picnic areas, campgrounds, off-leash dog areas, model airfields and other areas as posted
- Horse-trailer parking is permitted in designated areas only
- Please refrain from riding horses on trails during wet or muddy conditions
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 5000, Wheaton, IL 60189-5000
email: forest@dupageforest.com (630) 933-7200 Fax: (630) 933-7204 TTY: (800) 526-0857