Illinois Prairie Path

Largely situated in DuPage County, this interconnected system of three trails has something for every type of cyclist. The main trail is 16-miles long and travels from downtown Wheaton through suburban neighborhoods and shopping centers to Volunteer Park. However, you can also opt for the rural farmland route of Elgin Branch or the lush river views along the Aurora Branch. As with many other cycling trails in the state, this path was also built over a defunct railway system. The Chicago Aurora and Elgin Railroad operated in this area from 1902 until 1959 after facing severe financial losses and legal problems. Several years later, it became part of the larger rail-to-trails program and converted into a multi-use path for cyclists.