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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Trail extended
By huskie_jon on July 01, 2010
The trail actually goes farther south than Aurora. When you reach Aurora, take Broadway along the East side of the Fox River, and after you cross the Gilman Trail, the Fox River Trail continues south into Oswego 5 more miles.
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.
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