Trail Distance: 3.2 Miles
Trail Surface: Packed Dirt
Type of Use: Mountain
Towns: Countryside, Hodgkins, Willow Springs, Indian Head Park
County: Cook
Parking: Take the Stevenson Expressway (I-55) to La Grange Road. Headnorth. There are two preserve entrances to your left. The first is .3 miles north of theStevenson. The second is north of 67th Street near Lake Ida. A third entrance is offJoliet Road (Route 66) west of La Grange Road.
Trail Map:

Rider's Comments: Arie Crown is a series of lumpy dirt trails that areinterconnected winding through fairly dense woods.  Since the path is not wellmarked, you can easily become disoriented.  Fortunately, you frequently cross theroad which loops through the preserve.  Recommended to ride this path with acompanion.

John Trznadel (jtt832@aol.com): Most forestpreserve bicycle trails in Cook County are paved, but not this one. Located just south ofCountryside, the wooded, packed-earth trail is bumpy and narrow in spots. Those on roadbikes shouldn't have much trouble, but it is better suited to mountain bikes.

With several loops and intersections and no signage on the trail, it's easy to get lost,so consider bringing a map and compass. Since the preserve's auto road crosses the trailin several spots, you won't be lost for long. There are a few hills to climb, a smallcreek to cross over, and nearby Lake Ida. The northern portion is quiet and peaceful.Traffic sounds increase as you approach I-55 to the south.

Rustic restrooms, water pumps and picnic tables are available near several of the parkingareas.

For More Detailed Information Contact:
Forest Preserve District of Cook County
536 N. Harlem Ave.
River Forest, IL 60305
708-366-9420

Do you have rider comments or new trails?  If so, email bikeillinois@jawa.org
This page was last revised at: Thursday, December 02, 1999 06:58:09 PM

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