Fox River Trail | Elgin

The Fox River Trail is a multi-use recreational trail that runs for approximately 40 miles along the Fox River in northeastern Illinois, mainly through Kane and Kendall Counties. It offers a scenic and historic route ideal for walking, running, cycling, and, in winter, cross-country skiing. The trail connects a string of riverfront towns and provides access to natural preserves, historic landmarks, and vibrant downtown districts.

Overview

Total length: About 40 miles (64 kilometers)

Trail type: Linear trail (point to point)

Surface: Primarily paved asphalt with some crushed limestone segments

Use: Walking, biking, jogging, rollerblading, cross-country skiing (in winter)

Accessibility: Open year-round; generally flat and beginner-friendly

Dog-friendly: Yes, but dogs must be on a leash

Route and Connected Towns

The trail runs roughly north to south along the Fox River and passes through the following communities:

Algonquin

Carpentersville

East and West Dundee

Elgin

South Elgin

St. Charles

Geneva

Batavia

North Aurora

Aurora

Montgomery

Oswego

The trail is well-marked, with frequent signs, river crossings, and access points in most towns, making it easy to explore in segments or as a continuous journey.

Natural and Scenic Features

Fox River views: The trail runs parallel to the river for most of its length, offering constant scenic views of the water, forested banks, wetlands, and bluffs.

Parks and preserves: The trail runs through or near several forest preserves, including:

Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve

Fabyan Forest Preserve

Island Park (Geneva)

Lippold Park

Wildlife: Sightings of herons, ducks, turtles, and deer are common along the riverbanks.

Historical and Cultural Landmarks

Fabyan Villa and Windmill (Geneva)
A Dutch-style windmill from the 1850s and the former estate of George and Nelle Fabyan. The Fabyan Villa was remodeled by Frank Lloyd Wright and is now a museum.

Fox River Trolley Museum (South Elgin)
A small but charming museum offering vintage electric trolley rides along a portion of the old interurban line, adding a historic element to the trail experience.

Batavia Depot Museum
A converted train depot from 1854 that highlights Batavia’s role in regional rail history and local industry.

C.B.&Q. Roundhouse (Aurora)
Originally a railroad maintenance facility, the roundhouse is now a restored commercial space with shops and restaurants.

Downtown Districts
Several charming downtowns lie adjacent to the trail (Geneva, St. Charles, Batavia), offering restaurants, cafes, antique shops, and cultural events.

Trail Connectivity

The Fox River Trail is part of a larger regional network of trails. It intersects with:

Prairie Trail (at the north in Algonquin) – leads into McHenry County

Illinois Prairie Path (in Elgin, Geneva, Batavia, and Aurora) – an east-west trail that extends to Maywood near Chicago

Virgil Gilman Trail (in Aurora) – connects to Waubonsee Community College

Great Western Trail (in St. Charles) – another east-west path running into DuPage County

These connections make the Fox River Trail a hub for longer-distance biking and recreational use across northeastern Illinois.

Facilities and Accessibility

Trailheads: Multiple starting points with designated parking lots, maps, and signage

Restrooms and Water: Available at major parks and public areas along the route

Picnic Areas: Found near most riverfront parks

Bike Repair Stations: Installed at various points along the trail

Public Transit Access: Metra stations in Elgin, Geneva, and Aurora offer easy access to the trail

Recommended Segments

Geneva to St. Charles
A popular segment with scenic bridges, lush riverfront paths, and access to historic downtowns. About 4 miles one way.

Batavia Loop
Cross both river bridges to create a short loop through the Fabyan Forest Preserve and the windmill area. Around 3 miles.

Elgin to South Elgin
Offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with a stop at the Fox River Trolley Museum. About 5 miles one way.

Best Times to Visit

Spring and Fall: Ideal for biking and hiking, with mild temperatures and vibrant foliage.

Summer: Popular for riverside activities, though the trail can be busy on weekends.

Winter: Some sections are maintained for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

Safety and Etiquette

Keep right and pass on the left

Announce passing with a bell or voice

Yield to pedestrians

Stay alert at intersections and crossings

Wear helmets when biking

The Fox River Trail is one of Illinois’ most scenic and versatile recreational paths, combining natural beauty, historical interest, and access to vibrant communities. It’s suitable for both casual outings and serious endurance activities, and it's a great way to explore the rich landscape and history of the Fox River Valley.