Best Rail Trails Illinois is the complete guide to walking, jogging, biking, and cross-country skiing more than forty of the most popular rail trails in Illinois. Written by an author with expert knowledge of the Prairie State, this easy-to-use book provides mile-by-mile descriptions of the top rural and urban rail trails--from the Chicago area's Prairie Path, one of America's first rail trails, to trails in the St. Louis area and those set in the breathtaking beauty of the Shawnee National Forest, as well as numerous other urban, suburban, and rural rail trails statewide. Look inside to find: - Full trail profiles, including length, access points, difficulty rating, and surface type - Detailed trail maps - At-a-glance icons for easy identification of rail trails that best suit one's interests - Information on wheelchair accessibility, parking, restrooms, where to rent bikes, and points of interest along the trail - Location of ranger stations, visitor centers, and depot museums - Local trail support organizations and how to get involved - Directions to each trailhead including public transportation access