Skip to main content

Search the middle of everything...

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...

General Grant's Home Front Reenactment & Encampment

Depot Park  •  Apr 25 – Apr 26 @ 9AM

Experience life in the 1860s through a Living History Encampment and Civil War Battle.

Read more about General Grant's Home Front Reenactment & Encampment

The Haunted Galena Conference

DeSoto House Hotel •  May 01 – May 03 @ 4PM

Embrace the Darkness with Haunted Galena Tour Company at the haunted DeSoto House Hotel!

Read more about The Haunted Galena Conference

Galena Main Street Sidewalk Sale

Galena's Historic Main Street •  May 08 – May 10 @ 9:30AM

It's time to shake off the winter blues and welcome the warmth of spring with a shopping spree on Main Street! The merchants are clearing out…

Read more about Galena Main Street Sidewalk Sale

You might also be interested...

Grant Park - Galena

Galena

This landscaped park lies beside the Galena River.

Read more about Grant Park - Galena

Buehler Preserve

Galena

Nature preserve just steps away from downtown Galena.

Read more about Buehler Preserve

Nuts Outdoors

Galena

Electric bike rentals, kayak rentals, fishing guides, and other guided adventures, Nuts Outdoors has everything for your next outdoor Galena adventure.

Read more about Nuts Outdoors

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

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