Your guide to exploring trails in & Around Winnetka
See how you can extend your journey on the green bay trail By exploring other connecting trails For A unique & Longer recreational experience
Winnetka offers so much more than just stunning real estate and renowned schools. While these help the village stand out, it’s only a small portion of what it has to offer. The area’s unique diversity and ability to provide unfamiliar experiences are unlike many other towns.
Thanks to the variety of parks, trails, and scenic shorelines - Winnetka is a fantastic location for enjoying nature on a beautiful day. Some of the most thrilling experiences can be discovered by foot or bike.
The 9-mile Green Bay Trail is undoubtedly a favorite among the community, with 2.24 miles running through the Village of Winnetka. It is a true multi-purpose trail and a convenient gateway to top recreation and adventure along the North Shore.
The trail stretches through towns such as Kenilworth, Highland Park, Lake Bluff, and of course, Winnetka. Access the path from several points, including Winnetka Avenue, Indian Hill Metra Station, Willow Road, Wilson Avenue and Maple Street, Winnetka Metra Station, Pine Street, Tower Road, Hubbard Woods Metra Station, and the Glencoe portion of the Green Bay Trail.
Depending on where you start your journey, the Green Bay Trail can lead you to various options, including restaurants, shops, side trips to beachfront views, longer connecting trails, or popular area venues and gardens.
For example, towards Highland Park and at the County Line, you’ll find that the Green Bay Trail connects to the Robert McClory Bike Path and the North Branch Trail.
The Robert McClory Bike Path is a 25-mile bike path that runs the length of Lake County to the Wisconsin border. So if you’re looking for an extended trip, this will do the trick. The North Branch Trail is a 20+ mile trail that follows the North Branch of the Chicago River through Cook County and extends back north as part of the Chicago Botanical Gardens. With more than two dozen gardens on 385 acres, this extended path makes for a serene trip back to Winnetka.
Continuing north, the North Branch Trail encompasses a 4.4-mile loop around the Skokie Lagoons and the Erickson Woods. On the west side of this trail runs I-94 and can sometimes be noisy from the highway traffic; therefore, some travelers prefer the eastern loop for a more pleasant route.
No matter the course you choose, the amenities and conveniences along the way make it easy to get around or back if needed.
Whether you’re searching for a short stroll or long bike ride, serene scenery, or simply eagerness to get out and about in the surrounding area, a trip along one of these scenic trails is a perfect adventure awaiting you!
STORY BY DAVE NIMICK
Winnetka Resident & Award-Winning Real Estate Broker
Keller Williams Momentum
This article was originally featured in
the Live Winnetka Magazine - Edition 01
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