When you think of mountain biking near Chicago, towering skyscrapers and bustling streets may not be the first things that come to mind. However, just beyond the urban sprawl and in the surrounding suburbs, there are hidden gems for mountain bikers of all levels. Whether you're a beginner looking for a leisurely ride or an experienced rider seeking challenging terrain, these top five mountain bike trails near Chicago offer something for everyone. And trust me, I’ve ridden each of these trail systems over and over again. Here are the top five mountain bike trails near the Windy City:

1. Palos Forest Preserve:
The Ultimate Mountain Biking Destination Near Chicago.

Location: Willow Springs, IL
Distance from Chicago: Approximately 25 miles
Trail Mileage: 50+ miles
Park Fees: None
Trail Map: Available on Trailforks.

Located in Willow Springs, the Palos Forest Preserve is a true gem for mountain bikers. It is my favorite trail system in Illinois. With over 50 miles of interconnected trails, ranging from beginner to advanced, it offers a variety of terrains, including rocky descents, technical climbs, and fast-flowing singletracks.

Interesting Fact: Palos Forest Preserve has an intriguing history; it was once the site of a nuclear research facility. The area was part of the Argonne National Laboratory, which was involved in the Manhattan Project during World War II. Today, it’s hard to imagine that this beautiful natural area, now known for outdoor recreation, was once part of such a significant historical event. Although no remnants of the facility remain, the preserve serves as a reminder of the diverse history that many natural areas can have.

My top three trails at Palos:

• Stonehouse Trail (Intermediate - Blue)
  Stonehouse is a challenging trail with technical terrain ideal for experienced riders looking to test their skills. With rocky sections, roots, and steep descents, this trail offers an adventurous ride.

• Three Ravines Trail (Advanced - Black)
  As one of the most thrilling trails in the preserve, Three Ravines takes you through a series of distinct ravines, each offering a unique and awesome experience. Just be aware it’s a 2-way trail, so stay cautious.

• Campground Trail (Intermediate - Blue)
  This 3.5-mile singletrack is perfect for a moderate challenge. The trail winds through woodlands, meadows, and wetlands, providing a mix of technical features and smooth, flowy sections.

Before heading out, check the trail conditions on the Cambr website.

Cons about the trail system:

The trails are multi-directional, which can pose challenges for less experienced cyclists. Trail etiquette isn't as strictly enforced as in other systems, so stay alert for faster riders.

2. Kettle Moraine State Forest:
A Scenic Mountain Biking Experience in Wisconsin.

Location: La Grange, WI
Distance from Chicago: Approximately 90 miles
Trail Mileage: 30 miles
Park Fees: State park admission sticker required
Trail Map: Available on Trailforks.

While located in Wisconsin, the John Muir Trails are just a reasonable drive from Chicago. The system comprises two trail systems, John Muir and Emma Carlin. Offering a mix of beginner-friendly and challenging trails, it's a must-visit for any serious mountain biker. The lush forest and rolling hills provide a picturesque backdrop for an unforgettable ride. I love riding these trails because you can go for hours continuously.

John Muir Trail System:

• Terrain and Difficulty: The John Muir trails tend to be slightly less technical than Emma Carlin, featuring more flowy sections. These trails are suitable for a wider range of riders, including those with intermediate skills.

• Trail Types: Predominantly singletrack, the John Muir trails are known for their smooth flow and well-maintained features, providing a smoother riding experience.

• Scenery: The John Muir trail system offers a mix of wooded areas, prairies, and wetlands. This variety provides a more diverse landscape than Emma Carlin, with occasional open vistas.

• Length and Loops: John Muir boasts an extensive network of interconnected trails, allowing riders to choose from various loops and routes, offering ample opportunities for exploration and variety.

• Skills Course: The John Muir location also features a skills course, perfect for riders looking to practice and improve their technical abilities. It includes various obstacles and challenges designed to help riders enhance their bike handling skills

Connector Trails: The John Muir and Emma Carlin trail systems are linked by two separate connector trails, each about 6 miles long. These connectors allow riders to easily transition between the two trail systems, expanding their ride options and creating the potential for longer, more diverse rides through different terrains.

Emma Carlin Trail System:

• Terrain and Difficulty:
  The Emma Carlin trails are more technical and challenging, with steeper climbs and descents. These trails are well-suited for experienced riders looking for a more demanding experience.

• Trail Types:
  The Emma Carlin system features a mix of singletrack, broader double track, and some gravel paths. The singletrack sections are known for their technical features, including roots, rocks, and tight turns.

• Scenery:
  This trail system winds through dense woodlands, providing a more enclosed and shaded riding experience. The thickly forested areas create a secluded and immersive natural environment.

• Length and Loops:
  Emma Carlin offers several loops of varying sizes, allowing riders to customize their experience based on their preferences and available time.

Favorite Trails at Kettle Moraine State Forest

The trails below are part of the John Muir system. I haven’t ridden the Emma Carlin trails yet.

• Brown Loop (Easy, 1.25 miles): A beginner-friendly trail with mostly flat terrain, small rolling hills, and a slightly rocky finish—ideal for new mountain bikers.

• Green Loop (Hard/More Difficult, 7.0 miles): A moderately challenging trail with rocky and sandy sections, featuring hard ups and downs along with some fast segments.

• Blue Loop (Hard/Most Difficult, 12.0 miles): The most challenging trail, known for its rocky terrain, tough climbs, and fast downhills, perfect for experienced riders seeking a thrill.

To learn more, visit here.

3. Silver Lake Mountain Biking Trails: An Adventurer's Paradise in Bristol, Wisconsin.

Location: Bristol, WI
Distance from Chicago: Approximately 62 miles
Trail Mileage: Varies
Park Fees: None
Trail Map: Available on Trailforks.

Silver Lake County Park in Bristol offers a variety of trails that wind through rolling hills and woodlands. With 14 trails ranging from green to black, there’s something for everyone, no matter your skill level. Whether you're in the mood for smooth, easy-going paths or you're up for tackling technical descents with some optional jumps, Silver Lake has what you’re looking for.

Favorite Trails at Silver Lake:

• Snowflake

• Rudie’s Run

• Little Wing

4. Raceway Woods: A Hidden Gem in Carpentersville, IL.

Location: Carpentersville, IL
Distance from Chicago: Approximately 40 miles
Trail Mileage: Varies
Park Fees: None
Trail Map: Available on Trailforks.

Raceway Woods is a lesser-known trail system that surprises riders with its challenging technical sections. The narrow paths and sudden drops provide an exciting ride for experienced bikers, but it is not for beginners.

Interesting Fact: Raceway Woods has a unique history—it was once the site of the Meadowdale International Raceway, a popular car racing track in the late 1950s and 1960s. While the track is no longer in use, remnants of the old raceway can still be spotted throughout the trail system, adding a cool historical element to your ride.

Before heading out, check the trail conditions on the Cambr website.

5. Atwood Bike Park: A Small but Mighty Playground in Rockford, IL.

Location: Rockford, IL
Distance from Chicago: Approximately 90 miles
Trail Mileage: Varies
Park Fees: None
Trail Map: Available on Trailforks.

Atwood Bike Park is a great spot if you’re just starting out with mountain biking or if you're an intermediate rider looking to improve your skills. The park features a range of trails, including Big Wheel and .30 Caliber, that are fun and approachable without being overly intense. It’s definitely not the place for adrenaline junkies chasing extreme challenges, but it’s perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed ride or if you want to build up your confidence on the trails. The vibe here is all about enjoying the ride and getting comfortable on your bike, making it a solid choice for a more laid-back mountain biking experience.

Interesting Fact: Atwood Park has a unique and fascinating history—the military originally used it for training exercises during the mid-20th century. The park's land served as a site for various military operations, and remnants of this past, such as old bunkers and other military structures, can still be found throughout the area. These remnants add an intriguing historical element to the park, making your ride not just about biking but also a journey through history.

Favorite trails at Atwood Bike Park

• Big Wheel Trail
  The Big Wheel Trail is one of the premier trails at Atwood Bike Park. It is a beginner-level trail known for its flow and well-designed features, offering a thrilling ride with plenty of speed and lots of berms and opportunities to jump rollovers and table tops. This trail is ideal for riders looking to experience a dynamic and fun-filled ride with some challenging sections.

• .30 Caliber Trail
  The .30 Caliber Trail is another standout trail at Atwood Bike Park, designed for more advanced riders. It features steeper descents and technical sections that require a higher skill level. The trail’s design incorporates natural features and man-made obstacles, providing an exhilarating challenge for those who are up for it.

Don’t Get Lost in the Woods: Use Trailforks.

The Trailforks app is like having a local guide with you. Whether exploring new trails or sticking to your favorites, Trailforks provides detailed maps and real-time updates.

What I love most is how easy it is to stay on track. With GPS tracking and community insights, you can ride confidently, knowing exactly where you are and what to expect. It’s a game-changer for anyone who wants to focus on the ride, not the directions.

So, if you’re looking for a way to keep your rides smooth and worry-free, Trailforks is your app.

Conclusion

There are a lot of great places to ride in the Midwest. It took me a while to find some of these spots through YouTube and online resources like this one. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned rider, the Chicago area and its surroundings offer some fantastic trails to explore. So get out there, and happy shredding.