A shaded paved path curves through trees in the Lincoln Park section of Chicago’s Lakefront Trail. — PHOTO“Chicago Lakefront Trail, Lincoln Park, Chicago, Illinois (43344162722).jpg” by Ken Lund from Reno, Nevada, USA · CC BY-SA 2.0. Resized and converted to WebP for this site.

NORTH AMERICA CHICAGO · UNITED STATES

Chicago Lakefront Trail

Choose one section of Chicago’s 18.5-mile pedestrian path; repairs are moving along the route this season.

What to expect

The Lakefront Trail is a city-spanning route rather than a short loop. The Park District separates its 18.5-mile pedestrian trail from the 18-mile bike trail; both run between Ardmore Avenue on the north and 71st Street on the south. For a first visit, choose a single mapped segment in Lincoln Park or Grant Park and plan the return before setting off.

Free public trail

Before you go

Entry and costs

The public trail is free to use. Bike rentals, concessions, parking and paid activities at nearby venues are separate. The pedestrian and bicycle trails are distinct routes, so follow the Park District’s trail symbols and section maps.

Visitor notes

The Park District’s 14 September 2026 repair notice says work will proceed section by section from the south, starting near 63rd Street and moving north toward Foster Avenue over several months as weather allows. Follow construction signs and avoid active work zones; closures can change which segment is practical. The District describes trail hours as normal park operating hours but does not give a separate clock schedule on this page.

Opening hours

Date-specific hours are not available for this place. Check the official page for the day you plan to visit.

Good for

Lake viewsLong walksSeparated bike route

Official sourceChicago Park District — Lakefront Trail

Checked 1 November 2026. Hours, entry rules and access can change; check this page again before you visit.

Recent check

Report a change to this listing