The 50 miles of the Des Plaines River Trail - which stretches from the Wisconsin border to North Avenue in Cook County with several miles passing right through Des Plaines- is an extraordinary asset enjoyed by countless cyclists, joggers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

The City and many other communities have invested in trail improvements to protect and preserve its beauty, as well as safety and reliability as a transportation option.  Over many years, portions of the trail have suffered damage due to heavy rains and floodwaters. 

In 2008, the City improved the portion of trail the runs through Des Plaines using federal grant funds through the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program (CMAQ). Improvements included: repairing the surface and trail width, adding shoulders, new signage, and a new crossing at Algonquin and Oakton crossings with signage, striping, and flashing beacons for pedestrians. The City also constructed a new trail section along the north side of Ballard Road, between Rand Road and Bender Road. This trail connects the new Levee 50 trail section. 

*The Des Plaines River Trail is under the jurisdiction of the Forest Preserve District of Cook County (FPDCC)