Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Road cycling
4.7
(27)
The Salt Creek Greenway Trail is an extensive and popular cycling path winding through the scenic Forest Preserves of Cook County and extending into DuPage County, in the western suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. This vital greenway generally parallels the meandering Salt Creek, a tributary of the Des Plaines River, offering a diverse recreational experience across approximately 25 to 28.6 miles of natural landscapes. It serves as a crucial link in a larger regional trail network, connecting communities and natural areas.
…Tips
October 9, 2020
Road cycling
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Wooded two lane ride
5.0
(55)
201
riders
49.5km
02:08
90m
90m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.4
(5)
155
riders
78.8km
03:37
150m
150m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
108
riders
81.2km
03:46
200m
200m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Details
Informations
Distance 9.88 km
Uphill 30 m
Downhill 30 m
Weather
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Monday 23 March
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-2°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 20.0 km/h
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The Salt Creek Greenway Trail is generally considered easy to moderate, making it accessible for a wide range of users. The terrain is mostly flat with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for recreational riders and families. The surface varies, featuring smooth paved sections, crushed limestone, and some short on-road segments where the path intersects traffic. Cyclists note that the surface is in good condition with ample room to pass.
Absolutely! The trail offers numerous scenic spots. You'll traverse through diverse environments including lush forest preserves, open prairies, wetlands, and savannas, often under shaded canopies. Key natural features include the meandering Salt Creek itself, and specific areas like Salt Creek Park are known for various bird species. Further north, Busse Woods features a historic elk pasture and lakes, providing unique wildlife viewing opportunities.
The Salt Creek Greenway Trail has numerous access points and parking areas along its extensive length. Popular starting points include areas near the Brookfield Zoo in the south and Busse Woods in the north. Many picnic groves are also situated adjacent to the path, often providing convenient parking. While specific locations aren't detailed here, visitors generally find it easy to locate parking at various points along the trail's course through the Forest Preserves of Cook County.
While spring, summer, and fall are highlighted as particularly rewarding seasons, the suitability for winter activities depends on conditions. Paved sections may be cleared, but crushed limestone segments can become muddy or icy. For winter cycling, fat bikes are often recommended. Hikers should be prepared for potentially slippery conditions. Always check local weather and trail conditions before heading out in winter.
Yes, the Salt Creek Greenway Trail is highly regarded as family-friendly. Its generally flat and well-maintained surface makes it suitable for children learning to ride or for family outings. The diverse natural environments offer opportunities for wildlife spotting, which can be exciting for kids. Additionally, points of interest like the Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center and the Brookfield Zoo are directly accessible from the trail, providing educational and entertainment options for families.
The Forest Preserves of Cook County generally allow dogs on trails, provided they are kept on a leash no longer than six feet and under the owner's control at all times. Owners are also responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Always check specific signage at trailheads for any localized rules or restrictions within certain preserve areas along the Salt Creek Greenway Trail.
Given its extensive length and passage through various suburban communities, there are numerous cafes, pubs, and accommodation options available near different sections of the Salt Creek Greenway Trail. For instance, areas around the Brookfield Zoo in Brookfield and near Busse Woods in Elk Grove Village offer a variety of dining and lodging choices. It's advisable to check local listings for specific establishments closest to your planned access point.
The trail is a haven for wildlife viewing due to its diverse habitats. Visitors often spot deer, various bird species including herons, Baltimore orioles, eastern bluebirds, and red-headed woodpeckers. Notably, the Busse Woods section in the north is home to a historic elk herd, offering a unique viewing experience. Keep an eye out for smaller mammals and aquatic life near the creek as well.
Yes, the Salt Creek Greenway Trail is a crucial link in a larger 210-mile integrated trail network in northeast Illinois. It connects with other popular routes such as the Illinois Prairie Path, the Great Western Trail, and the Busse Woods Trail. This interconnectedness allows for extended adventures and exploration of the wider regional trail system.
Accessing the Salt Creek Greenway Trail via public transportation is possible, particularly through Pace bus routes that serve the surrounding suburban areas of Cook and DuPage Counties. While direct Metra or CTA access to specific trailheads might be limited, connecting bus services can often bring you within a reasonable distance. Planning your route with local transit maps is recommended to find the most convenient access points.