NRT Database

Location: In SE corner of Kane Co., on W side of Aurora, accessed on Galena Blvd. (recertified 1993)
State(s): Illinois
Counties: Kane
Longitude: -88.43746
Latitude: 41.78429

Driving Directions

Driving directions are not available for this trail. Can you provide this missing data?

Description

This trail is 9 miles from Ohio Street, south of Montgomery, northwest to Bliss Woods on Bliss Road, north of Sugar Grove. The Fox River is crossed on a covered bridge between Rt. 25 and Rt. 31 in Aurora, north of Ashland Avenue. (630-897-0516).

The Virgil L. Gilman Nature Trail, includes two abandoned railroad right-of-ways. Beginning at Business Rt. 30 near Montgomery Road, the trail stretches west, a distance of approximately 11.2 miles to Waubonsee Community College. The Virgil L. Gilman Trail was constructed by the Fox Valley Park District and the Kane County Forest Preserve District.

The Virgil L. Gilman Trail crosses Waubonsee Creek. Beyond the creek are wetlands, filled with small birds and waterfowl. Ducks, heron and shore birds visit the marsh on their migratory flights. Redwing Blackbirds, the Downy Woodpecker, Cardinals, Bluejays can be seen along the path, as well as wildflowers and small patches of native prairie. Cottonwoods, White Poplars, Sycamores, White and Black Oak add to the sights to be seen. A truss bridge connects the two shores of the Fox Riv

Additional Details

Primary Surface: Asphalt
Secondary Surface: None
Elevation Low Point: Not Available
Elevation High Point: Not Available
Elevation Gain (cumulative): Not Available

Year Designated: 1981

Contact Information

For more information and current conditions, contact the trail manager (listed below). For questions, suggestions, and corrections to information listed on the website, contact American Trails.

Trail management:
Fox Valley Park District
712 South River St.
Aurora, IL 60506