15.9 miles (plus 4-mile loop)
Beginning in Gompers Park and stretching all the way north to the Skokie Lagoons, the North Branch Trail runs for nearly 16 miles, following the path of the North Branch of the Chicago River. The paved portion of the trail is perfect for biking, roller blading, running or walking, taking you through forests in Niles, Skokie, Morton Grove and Winnetka. The trail ends with a four-mile loop around the Skokie Lagoons, which can also be used to get to the nearby Chicago Botanic Garden.