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A true Chicago classic. Over 18 continuous miles along Lake Michigan.


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Map Key

18.4

Miles

29.6

KM

100%

Runnable

596' 182 m

High

577' 176 m

Low

154' 47 m

Up

150' 46 m

Down

0%

Avg Grade (0°)

3%

Max Grade (2°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Lake · River/Creek · Swimming · Views

Overview

The Lakefront Trail is a testament to the planners of Chicago, with over 18 miles of multi-use path that run through park space along the lake. The trail runs along Lake Shore Drive. There are dozens of parking lots and trail connections. It is therefore possible to do the whole trail all at once or break it up into countless smaller adventures.

Need to Know

The surface is paved but can have potholes. This trail can be very crowded in the summer. Run defensively and watch out for people entering and exiting the trail.

Description

This trail is the best way to see Chicago. The trail connects all of the major parks and attractions that are on the lakefront. There are beaches, tennis courts, museums, harbors and so many other things to do. A partial list of attractions include:

  • Lincoln Park
  • Grant Park
  • Millenium Park
  • Maggie Daley Park
  • Burnham Park
  • Jackson Park
  • Over 10 beaches
  • Field Museum of Natural History
  • Museum of Science and Industry
  • Shedd Aquarium
  • Adler Planetarium
  • Lincoln Park Zoo
  • Navy Pier
  • Soldier Field
  • McCormick Place
  • Montrose Harbor
  • Belmont Harbor
  • Diversey Harbor
  • DuSable Harbor
  • Monroe Harbor
  • Burnham Harbor
  • 31st Street Harbor
  • 59th Street Harbor
  • Jackson Park Harbor

Contacts

Land Manager: Chicago Park District

Shared By:

Rafi Wilkinson

Trail Ratings

  4.8 from 12 votes

#2

in Chicago

#880

Overall
  4.8 from 12 votes
5 Star
83%
4 Star
8%
3 Star
8%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#2

in Chicago

#7

in Illinois

#880

Overall
9 Views Last Month
2,903 Since Jan 24, 2016
Easy/Intermediate Easy/Intermediate

58%
17%
25%
0%
0%
0%

Photos

Watching the Chicago Air and Water show from the Lakefront. Near Diversey Ave looking south.
Jul 30, 2017 near Chicago, IL
View from the Chicago Lakefront Trail.
Jun 7, 2015 near Chicago, IL
Uptown Chicago Park
Aug 6, 2015 near Lincoln…, IL

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Current Trail Conditions

All Clear 17 days ago
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