The best MTB trails around Bannockburn

By Fede from komoot

Updated June 1, 2026

If you've ever tried to plan mountain biking around Bannockburn, you know how overwhelming the options can be. With so many routes out there, it's tough to tell which ones are genuinely worth your time and effort, and which are just filler. We get it – the last thing you want is to spend your precious riding time on a trail that doesn't deliver. That's why we've done the legwork for you.

Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed these routes, giving you a curated shortlist of the trails that truly stand out. This guide isn't a recycled highlights reel; it's a collection of routes we know you'll love, saving you the guesswork. Mountain biking around Bannockburn is defined by its serene forest preserves, winding river systems, and tranquil ponds. The terrain is generally flat, making it accessible for a wide range of skill levels, with paths often following the Des Plaines River and weaving through natural areas like the Half Day Forest Preserve.

If you only do one ride, make it the North Branch Trail System Loop. At 46.9 miles (75.4 km), it’s a moderate route that explores an extensive network of trails and is a top favorite for a reason. For something a bit easier, especially if you're looking for a scenic, less strenuous ride, the Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds – Des Plaines River bridge loop from Wheeling offers an easy 18.0 miles (28.9 km) of beautiful views. Ready to explore? Our community has rated these routes with an average of 5.0 stars from more than 20 reviews, so you know you're in good hands.

If you only do 3 of these routes

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail	Distance	Elevation	Difficulty
North Branch Trail System Loop	75.4 km	140 m	Moderate
Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds – Des Plaines River bridge loop from Wheeling	28.9 km	40 m	Easy
Des Plaines River bridge – Independence Grove Lake loop from Wheeling	60.2 km	130 m	Moderate
Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds – Des Plaines River bridge loop from Deerfield	31.9 km	60 m	Moderate

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

North Branch Trail System Loop

75.4 km

140 m

Moderate

Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds – Des Plaines River bridge loop from Wheeling

28.9 km

40 m

Easy

Des Plaines River bridge – Independence Grove Lake loop from Wheeling

60.2 km

130 m

Moderate

Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds – Des Plaines River bridge loop from Deerfield

31.9 km

60 m

Moderate

1. North Branch Trail System Loop

75.4km

03:59

140m

The North Branch Trail System Loop offers a refreshing escape into nature, winding through forest preserves and along the North Branch of the Chicago River. You'll encounter a mix of well-maintained paved paths and some unpaved sections, with highlights like the scenic Skokie Lagoons and opportunities for wildlife viewing. This moderate mountain biking route spans an impressive 46.9 miles (75.4 km) with a gentle 474 feet (144 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 3 hours and 58 minutes to complete.

Planning your ride is straightforward, with plenty of parking lots, restrooms, and picnic areas available along the route. The trail can get busy, especially during warmer months, so be mindful of other users; a 15 mph speed limit is advised for everyone's safety. This trail is an excellent option for those seeking a long, accessible ride with varied scenery and minimal technical difficulty.

What makes this trail system stand out is its extensive length and connectivity, linking to popular spots like the Chicago Botanic Garden and other regional trails. The Skokie Lagoons section, a 4.4-mile loop, is a popular destination in itself, showcasing the area's rich plant and animal life. Historically, parts of the trail, particularly around the lagoons, were developed with the help of the Civilian Conservation Corps, adding a layer of heritage to your ride.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mountain bike trails are available in Bannockburn?

There are 4 mountain bike trails listed in Bannockburn, offering a variety of experiences through forest preserves and along river systems.

What are the typical difficulty levels for mountain biking in Bannockburn?

The mountain bike trails in Bannockburn are generally easy to moderate. You'll find 1 easy route and 3 moderate routes, making the area accessible for various skill levels.

Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, for beginners or families, the Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds – Des Plaines River bridge loop from Wheeling is an excellent choice. This easy 18.0-mile (28.9 km) path features scenic views of forest preserve ponds and the Des Plaines River, with minimal elevation changes.

What kind of scenery can I expect on mountain bike trails around Bannockburn?

The trails in Bannockburn wind through serene forest preserves, alongside the Des Plaines River, and past numerous tranquil ponds. You can expect natural waterways and wooded areas, providing a peaceful setting for your ride.

Are there any circular mountain bike routes in Bannockburn?

Yes, all the listed mountain bike routes in Bannockburn are designed as loops. For example, the popular North Branch Trail System Loop is a 46.9-mile (75.4 km) circular route exploring an extensive network of trails.

What are some points of interest or attractions along the mountain bike trails?

Along the trails, you can explore several natural attractions. Highlights include the Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds, the Des Plaines River bridge, and the expansive MacArthur Woods Forest Preserve.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Bannockburn?

The mountain bike trails in Bannockburn are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 20 reviews. Riders often praise the peaceful forest preserves, the scenic river paths, and the tranquil ponds that define the area's natural beauty.

Are there any longer mountain bike routes for experienced riders?

For longer rides, the North Branch Trail System Loop covers 46.9 miles (75.4 km) and is a moderate route. Another option is the Des Plaines River bridge – Independence Grove Lake loop from Wheeling, which is 37.4 miles (60.2 km) and also rated moderate.

Can I find trails that pass by lakes or water bodies?

Absolutely. Many trails in Bannockburn feature scenic views of ponds and the Des Plaines River. The Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds – Des Plaines River bridge loop from Wheeling is a prime example, offering beautiful vistas of the forest preserve ponds and the river.

What is the typical duration for mountain bike rides in Bannockburn?

Ride durations vary depending on the trail length and your pace. Easy routes like the Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds – Des Plaines River bridge loop from Wheeling typically take around 1 hour 55 minutes, while longer moderate routes can take up to 4 hours 25 minutes, such as the Des Plaines River bridge – Independence Grove Lake loop from Wheeling.

Are there any trails that are less crowded for a more solitary experience?

While specific crowd levels can vary, the extensive network of trails through forest preserves and along the river offers many opportunities for a peaceful ride. Exploring routes like the Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds – Des Plaines River bridge loop from Deerfield might offer a quieter experience, especially during off-peak hours.

The best MTB trails around Bannockburn

If you only do 3 of these routes

Compare these routes at a glance

1.

North Branch Trail System Loop

2.

Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds – Des Plaines River bridge loop from Wheeling

3.

Des Plaines River bridge – Independence Grove Lake loop from Wheeling

4.

Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds – Des Plaines River bridge loop from Deerfield

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