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Des Plaines River Trail – Independence Grove Lake loop from Six Flags Great America

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Running trails & routes

Des Plaines River Trail – Independence Grove Lake loop from Six Flags Great America

Hard

4.8

(9569)

10,916

runners

Des Plaines River Trail – Independence Grove Lake loop from Six Flags Great America

01:43

16.6km

70m

Running

Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: April 5, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

2.68 km

Bike repair station on the Des Plaines River Trail

Highlight • Rest Area

This bike repair station along the Des Plaines River Trail is equipped with an air pump, tire levers, Allen wrenches, and screwdrivers—perfect for quick adjustments and on-the-go maintenance.

Tip by

3.29 km

Tucked away from the river, this stretch of the Des Plaines River Trail offers a peaceful escape surrounded by towering trees. In the summer, the dense canopy provides a cool, shaded path, while autumn transforms it into a golden tunnel of falling leaves. Winter brings a quiet, snow-draped wonderland, and in spring, fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers make it feel like a hidden sanctuary. No matter the season, this spot delivers a truly magical experience.

Tip by

5.69 km

Des Plaines River Trail - Libertyville

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

This stretch of the Des Plaines River Trail is perfect for beginner cyclists and families looking for a smooth, scenic ride. Towering trees provide shade in the summer, while autumn turns the path into a golden tunnel of leaves. In spring, fresh greenery and wildflowers make it feel like a hidden sanctuary. With a well-maintained, mostly flat trail, it’s an easy and enjoyable ride for all ages.

Tip by

8.22 km

Independence Grove Lake

Highlight • Lake

A very nice pond where you can observe dragonflies and water birds.

Tip by

8.30 km

Northeast Pavillion Picnic Area

Highlight • Lake

16.1 km

Washington Street Bike Path

Highlight • Lake

This bike path goes up or down (depending on) the course of the Des Plaines River.

Tip by

16.6 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

16.6 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

14.9 km

1.68 km

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Sunday 5 July

22°C

17°C

27 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

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Description

If you're looking for a challenging and scenic run that combines natural beauty with a touch of local character, the Des Plaines River Trail – Independence Grove Lake loop from Six Flags Great America is a solid choice. This difficult 10.3-mile (16.6 km) jogging route, with 231 feet (70 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 1 hour and 42 minutes, making it a rewarding option for experienced runners seeking a longer workout near Six Flags Great America jogging trails.

What to expect on Des Plaines River Trail – Independence Grove Lake loop from Six Flags Great America

This route offers a diverse journey through woodlands, prairies, and wetlands, with continuous views of the meandering Des Plaines River. The terrain underfoot is mostly well-maintained crushed gravel, though you'll also encounter sections of hard-packed soil and some paved paths, particularly within the Independence Grove Forest Preserve. The highlight is undoubtedly the 129-acre Independence Grove Lake, a reclaimed gravel quarry, which provides a beautiful backdrop for your run. While generally flat to gently rolling, the overall distance and varied surfaces contribute to its difficult rating, making it best suited for those comfortable with longer distances and sharing the multi-use trail with cyclists and horseback riders.

Planning your visit

Accessing this popular trails Des Plaines River Trail Independence Grove Lake loop is straightforward, with numerous access points along the Des Plaines River Trail. For this specific route, you'll start near Six Flags Great America. Parking Des Plaines River Trail Independence Grove is available at various points along the trail, so plan your start accordingly. Be aware that sections of the trail, especially underpasses, can be prone to flooding after heavy rains, so check conditions before you go. Independence Grove itself offers amenities like a marina, cafe, and visitors center, perfect for a post-run refuel or a break.

Trail details