Skip to main content
Shedd Aquarium

Galena River Trail

91 Bouthillier St, Galena, IL 61036

Biking

A scenic 8.8 mile (one way) trail along the Galena River, just minutes from downtown Galena.

The hard surfaced finely crushed rock trail is perfect for hiking, biking, cross country skiing or a simple stroll. It features beautiful views of the Galena River and towering bluffs. 

The trail is built in the footprint of the Burlington Railroad main line that was constructed in 1886, the route links Galena with Galena Junction along the Mississippi River. While the trains stopped running about 60 years ago, you can still spot old signal foundations along the way. 

If you complete the 8.8-mile stretch, you will reach Chestnut Mountain Resort where you can take a chair lift to the restaurant to enjoy a refreshing drink overlooking the Mississippi River.  

What's happening nearby...

Snowflakes and Sweets Stroll

Galena's Main Street •  Dec 21 @ 12noon

Find sweet treats sprinkled along Main Street in charming Galena, IL!

Read more about Snowflakes and Sweets Stroll

Winter Carnival Weekend at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa

Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa •  Feb 14 – Feb 17 @ 8AM

Embrace the spirit of winter at Eagle Ridge Resort and Spa's Annual Winter Carnival, a four-day celebration of all things snow, ice, and frost.

Read more about Winter Carnival Weekend at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa

Chocolate Lovers Stroll

Galena's Historic Main Street  •  Feb 15 @ 12noon

Unlock the sweetest side of Galena with the Annual Chocolate Lovers Stroll!

Read more about Chocolate Lovers Stroll

You might also be interested...

Buehler Preserve

Galena

Nature preserve just steps away from downtown Galena.

Read more about Buehler Preserve

Nuts Outdoors

Galena

Nuts Outdoors has everything for your next outdoor Galena adventure - electric bike rental, kayak rentals, fishing guides and more!

Read more about Nuts Outdoors

Grant Park - Galena

Galena

This landscaped park lies beside the Galena River.

Read more about Grant Park - Galena

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get inspired by top travel stories, gain access to exclusive promotions and contests, and discover even more reasons to #EnjoyIllinois.