The DuPage River Trail is proposed to run along the DuPage River from Shorewood to DuPage County. Several government agencies have partnered to build segments of the trail as property is acquired through purchases or donations. Two sections of the trail that the District manages are already in place.

A 2.35-mile segment exists at Whalon Lake Preserve on Royce Road in Naperville. This paved portion winds around Whalon Lake and passes through prairie and wetlands. Trail users can take a break to drop a fishing line in the lake, or head to the dog park to let man's best friend have some off-leash fun (permit required).

The southern section of the DuPage River Trail travels through Hammel Woods in Shorewood. This 1.7-mile paved section provides a backdrop of forest and prairie. Trail users can stop to rest at any of the three shelters along the trail, drop a fishing line in the nearby DuPage River, or give Fido a break from the leash in the dog park (permit required).

In 2012, an extension of the DuPage River Trail at Hammel Woods will be constructed, and improvements will be made to the dog park and trailhead area at DuPage River Access. View more information about this project.

Photograph Courtesy of Ron Molk