5.0
(9)
30
riders
4
rides
Mountain biking around River Grove features routes primarily along the Des Plaines River, characterized by flat terrain and extensive woodlands. The area offers a network of trails that traverse through natural preserves like Algonquin Woods, Robinson Woods North, and Catherine Chevalier Woods. These paths provide a mix of open river views and shaded forest sections, with minimal elevation changes.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
5.0
(1)
5
riders
57.6km
04:05
90m
90m
Mountain biking the Des Plaines River Trail offers a moderate 35.8-mile ride through diverse landscapes in Cook and Lake County.
5.0
(2)
9
riders
37.5km
02:44
60m
60m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(5)
11
riders
45.8km
03:23
70m
70m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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wet after rain, buggy when too dry, mostly idylic though bumpy. Recommend at least 35mm tires
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This is one of the many forest preserves along the Des Plaines River Trail. There are picnic tables, bathrooms and parking for trail access here. You can enjoy some great views of the river from here as well.
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This stretch of the Des Plaines River Trail at Camp Pine Woods Forest Preserve brings cyclists along a wide gravel path through a mix of oak-hickory woodlands and maple forests, set near the river. Surrounded by natural areas like sedge meadows and savannas, it’s a quiet spot with historical ties to a former WWII POW camp.
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This stretch of the Des Plaines River Trail at Camp Pine Woods Forest Preserve brings hikers along a wide gravel path through a mix of oak-hickory woodlands and maple forests, set near the river. Surrounded by natural areas like sedge meadows and savannas, it’s a quiet spot with historical ties to a former WWII POW camp.
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Watch for the railway crossing ahead, which lacks crossing lights and automatic rail bars. However, two cement blocks are placed just before the tracks to slow you down and alert you to proceed with caution. After crossing, you'll be back to the Des Plaines River Trail.
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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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The Edward L Ryerson Nature Preserve is a safe haven for a number of different plant and animal species. It has been noted that over 150 bird species and almost 600 different species of flowering plants reside within the preserve.
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Experience the tranquil charm of Algonquin Woods, a cherished nature preserve celebrated for its unspoiled beauty. This enchanting sanctuary, intertwined with the Des Plaines River trail, unveils a lush forest. The captivating allure of tree-covered paths reaches its pinnacle during the fall, offering a refreshing retreat from the suburban cityscape.
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There are 6 mountain bike trails detailed in this guide for the River Grove area, offering a variety of experiences along the Des Plaines River and through local woodlands.
Yes, while most routes are moderate, there is at least one easy mountain bike trail available. The generally flat terrain and minimal elevation changes make many of the moderate trails also accessible for those newer to mountain biking.
The mountain bike trails in River Grove vary in length, with routes ranging from approximately 22 miles (35.8 km) to 35.8 miles (57.6 km). For example, the Des Plaines River Trail is 35.8 miles long.
The trails in River Grove, characterized by flat terrain and minimal elevation, are generally suitable for families. Routes like the Des Plaines River Trail – Algonquin Woods loop from Elmwood Park offer a pleasant ride through shaded forest sections.
You can expect primarily flat terrain with minimal elevation changes. The trails traverse extensive woodlands and follow the Des Plaines River, offering a mix of open river views and shaded forest sections through natural preserves like Algonquin Woods and Robinson Woods North.
Yes, several loop trails are popular in the area. For instance, the Des Plaines River Trail – Des Plaines River Trail loop from River Grove offers a comprehensive experience of the river corridor and surrounding woods.
The mountain bike trails in River Grove are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the extensive river trails, dense woodlands, and accessible terrain.
The trails pass through significant natural preserves such as Algonquin Woods, Robinson Woods North, and Catherine Chevalier Woods. You can also explore highlights like Brookfield Woods and Caldwell Woods, which are nearby.
The mountain bike trails in River Grove are predominantly moderate in difficulty, with one easy route. The region is characterized by flat terrain and minimal elevation, so it does not feature trails typically classified as advanced or technically challenging.
Given the extensive woodlands and river views, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also suitable, with shaded sections providing relief, while winter riding may depend on snow and ice conditions.
While the terrain is generally flat, the trails along the Des Plaines River offer consistent open river views, and routes through areas like Algonquin Woods provide picturesque shaded forest sections. The natural preserves themselves are the main scenic attractions.
Yes, routes like the Robinson Woods North – Catherine Chevalier Woods loop from Schiller Park specifically take you through these natural areas, offering a ride through varied forest landscapes.


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