TrailLink :: Fox River Trail (Algonquin to Aurora)

Fox River Trail (Algonquin to Aurora):
Illinois

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Description:

The Fox River Trail features 32 miles of spectacular biking, hiking, and cross-country skiing along the scenic Fox River. The paved path can be challenging at times, but the extra pedal pushing is rewarded with some impressive scenery along the trail and in the small towns. As the Fox River Trail meanders south from Algonquin, it closely follows the Fox River. It is possible to switch back and forth over the river as the trail does extend on both sides of the river at times. While this is a nice amenity, it also increases the potential to be confusing. The signage along the trail is good in most parts but be sure to consult a map before heading out for a longer trip. The upside to bouncing back and forth across the river-aside from the scenery-is the bridges you cross on. The Fox River Trail offers no less than six bridges, some specifically for bicycles and pedestrians, across the river. These bridges are perfect spots for some of the best pictures that you can take along the trail. The bridges vary in form and function from trestle to pedestrian allows the user to experience the Fox River from many different viewpoints. The trail was built on the former Chicago, Aurora and Elgin Railroad line and hosts a multitude of different birds, trees and wildlife including bald eagles, herons, and woodpeckers. The Fox River Trail draws a lot of visitors, and many of the towns-and business owners-along the trail have embraced the tourism. You will find restaurants, cafes, bike shops, and souvenir shops, and no one will bat an eye at spandex bike shorts. Small parks that dot the landscape throughout the trail are perfect for small family picnics or a well-earned break. They are local fishing haunts, too. So whether it is for a leisurely stroll, a hard cycling workout, a picnic in the park or just a relaxing day of fishing the Fox River Trail offers plenty of trail to make your day.

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Parking & Trail Access:

To reach the Algonquin trailhead from State Route 31, travel toward Algonquin and turn east on State Route 62 then north on North Harrison Street. Riverfront Park, with parking, is approximately a quarter mile ahead. The Aurora trailhead can be accessed from Interstate 88 (Ronald Reagan Memorial Tollway). Exit on to State Route 31 in Aurora and head south. Willis McCullough Park is on the left in approximately 1 mile.

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Reviews:

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Fun ride

By tbastable on October 09, 2008

Rode from St. Charles to Batavia on Oct. 9, very pretty views along the river, route was smooth with numeous parks to stop at if so inclined.

Nice simple trail

By weav8060 on August 31, 2008

My girlfriend and I rode an easy 10 miles from Algolquin to Elgin this Saturday starting late afternoon. The trail was flat, nearly empty, and there were pit stops and enough variety to make it an enjoyable ride. You ride in the shade a great deal of time because there's plenty of trees.

Map is not 100% accurate

By wdamico on April 08, 2008

For portions of the trail, there are parallel sections on both sides of the river. The map does not show the sections where the trail is on both sides of the river. Also, along the eastern side of the river, the path has a gap in it around St. Charles and the route is directed along some streets. The map on this site does not have this somewhat confusing section mapped entirely correctly.

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Trail Facts

Trail End Points: Algonquin to Aurora
Counties: Kane, McHenry
Trail Length: 32 miles
Trail Category: Rail-Trail
Trail Surfaces: Asphalt, Crushed Stone, Concrete
Trail Activities: Walk, Bicycle, Cross Country Ski, Inline Skates, Wheelchair