Galena River Trail: A Scenic Pathway Through History
Explore Galena's scenic beauty and history on this 8.8-mile trail along the Galena River, perfect for hiking, biking, and enjoying nature.
The Galena River Trail is an 8.8-mile (one way) scenic trail that follows the Galena River, perfect for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. Built on the former Burlington Railroad line, it offers a glimpse into Galena's past while providing beautiful views of the river and surrounding bluffs.
A brief summary to Galena River Trail
- 1107 Park Ave, Galena, Illinois, 61036, US
Local tips
- Enjoy free parking at multiple trailheads, including Galena Recreation Park, 1107 Park Ave, and Aiken along S River Rd.
- The trail surface is best suited for mountain bikes and hybrids, but road bikes are also commonly used.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the Galena Junction and Aiken Trail segments are known for diverse birdlife.
- Extend your trip by continuing to Chestnut Mountain Resort, where you can enjoy a chairlift ride and scenic views of the Mississippi River.
- Note that the trail is closed annually during firearm deer hunting season; check the City of Galena's website for updates.
Getting There
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Walking
From downtown Galena, access the Galena River Trail via the trailhead located on the southwest side of US Highway 20, near the floodgates. Free parking is available under the US Highway 20 bridge. From here, you can stroll north towards Buehler Preserve or south towards Galena Junction.
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Driving
If arriving by car, several free parking areas provide access to the trail. These include the Galena Recreation Park (1721 Field St), the trailhead at 1107 Park Ave, and the southern trailhead in Aiken along S River Rd. From any of these points, you can easily access the trail and begin your exploration. Limited parking may be available during peak tourist season.
Discover more about Galena River Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Haunted Galena Tour Company
0.5 km
Discover Galena's ghostly secrets with captivating walking tours through historic streets. Experience chilling tales and local legends.
Civil War Monument
0.5 km
Honor the brave at Galena's Civil War Monument, a serene landmark of American history and sacrifice.
All About A Ghost Tour
0.8 km
Explore Galena's ghostly past with historian-led walking tours. Uncover chilling tales and local legends in this historic Illinois town.
Unmissable attractions to see
Depot Park
0.1 km
Explore the natural beauty and historical charm of Depot Park, a serene escape in the heart of Galena, Illinois.
Belvedere Mansion
0.1 km
Explore the exquisite Belvedere Mansion in Galena, IL, where history and beauty intertwine amidst lush gardens and stunning architecture.
Washburne House State Historic Site
0.2 km
Explore the rich history of Illinois at the Washburne House State Historic Site, a preserved gem showcasing 19th-century life in Galena.
Galena Gates
0.3 km
Explore Galena Gates in Illinois, a captivating blend of history, scenic beauty, and local charm, perfect for an unforgettable tourist experience.
Chicago Athenaeum
0.3 km
Explore the Chicago Athenaeum in Galena, Illinois—where art, architecture, and history come together in a captivating museum experience.
Linmar Gardens
0.3 km
Explore Linmar Gardens: A serene escape in Galena, Illinois, featuring stunning floral displays, captivating sculptures, and tranquil water features.
Grant Park
0.4 km
Experience the beauty and tranquility of Grant Park in Galena, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Historic Marker - Early Galena, IL
0.4 km
Discover the historic charm of Galena, IL, at the Historic Marker that tells the tale of early American settlers and their enduring legacy.
Countryside Tours
0.4 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Galena, Illinois with Countryside Tours – a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A Darkness Lovely, Retail Store of The Haunted Galena Tour Company
0.5 km
Discover the hauntingly beautiful treasures at A Darkness Lovely in Galena, Illinois, where the spooky meets the charming.
U.S. Grant Home State Historic Site
0.5 km
Discover the legacy of Ulysses S. Grant at this historic home offering insights into American history and beautiful gardens in Galena, Illinois.
Galena - U.S. Grant History Museum
0.6 km
Explore Ulysses S. Grant's fascinating legacy at the U.S. Grant History Museum in Galena, Illinois, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits.
Galena - Jo Daviess County Historical Society
0.6 km
Explore the rich history of Galena at the Jo Daviess County Historical Society, where captivating exhibits bring the past to life.
Amelia's Galena Ghost Tours, INC
0.6 km
Explore the haunted history of Galena, Illinois with Amelia's Ghost Tours, where chilling tales meet rich heritage in a captivating atmosphere.
Matthew's Haunted Pub Crawl - Ghost Tours
0.6 km
Discover the spooky side of Galena, Illinois, with Matthew's Haunted Pub Crawl—an unforgettable tour filled with ghost stories and local charm.
Essential places to dine
Otto's Place
0.3 km
Discover Otto's Place: A cozy breakfast haven in Galena offering delicious meals with local flair.
Green Street Tavern
0.5 km
Discover the flavors of Galena at Green Street Tavern – where local ingredients meet exceptional hospitality.
DeSoto House Hotel
0.5 km
Discover historical elegance and modern comforts at DeSoto House Hotel in Galena - a perfect getaway for every traveler.
Embe Eatery and Lounge
0.5 km
Discover culinary excellence at Embe Eatery and Lounge in Galena – where American flavors meet vibrant dining.
Courtyard Restaurant
0.5 km
Discover delicious American breakfast at Courtyard Restaurant in Galena – where taste meets comfort in a charming setting.
Bread and Vine Galena
0.6 km
Discover the perfect blend of bakery delights and cocktail sophistication at Bread and Vine Bakery in Galena.
Vinny Vanucchi's
0.6 km
Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Vinny Vanucchi's in Galena – where every dish tells a story.
La Michoacana Irmanaju
0.6 km
Discover La Michoacana Irmanaju in Galena - where delightful ice cream meets hearty breakfasts in a cozy atmosphere.
Blaum Bros. Public House
0.7 km
Experience Galena's culinary delight at Blaum Bros. Public House – where great food meets warm hospitality.
Galenas Tajin Mexican Restaurant & Cantina
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico at Galenas Tajin Mexican Restaurant & Cantina in charming Galena, Illinois.
Market House Restaurant H.P.
0.7 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Market House Restaurant H.P., where comfort meets flavor in the heart of Galena.
Log Cabin Steakhouse
0.7 km
Experience exceptional steak dining in Galena at Log Cabin Steakhouse—where rustic charm meets culinary excellence.
Paradise Bar & Grill
0.7 km
Experience casual dining at its best at Paradise Bar & Grill in Galena - where delicious meals meet affordable prices!
Charlie's Place Eatery
0.8 km
Discover delicious American cuisine at Charlie's Place Eatery in Galena - where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Fried Green Tomatoes
0.8 km
Experience culinary excellence at Fried Green Tomatoes in Galena – where steak meets seafood and Italian flair.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Peace of the Past
0.4 km
Explore the charm of Galena, Illinois, at Peace of the Past, an antique store offering vintage furniture and unique used books.
Bella Rosa
0.4 km
Discover Bella Rosa, Galena's premier boutique for unique women's fashion and accessories in a charming, historic setting.
La Belle Epoque
0.4 km
Explore the charm of La Belle Epoque, Galena's premier antique store, offering a curated collection of vintage treasures and unique gifts.
Tin-Pan Alley Antique Mall
0.5 km
Explore Tin-Pan Alley Antique Mall in Galena, Illinois, a treasure trove of vintage antiques, collectibles, and unique finds waiting for you.
Galena Apothecary
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and wellness products at Galena Apothecary, your charming destination in Galena, Illinois, for a memorable shopping experience.
Gustafson & Grey
0.5 km
Explore Gustafson & Grey in Galena, Illinois—your destination for unique antiques and timeless treasures in a charming atmosphere.
Rix Antiques
0.5 km
Explore Rix Antiques in Galena, IL – a unique antique store filled with historical treasures and vintage collectibles that captivate the imagination.
Down the Street Boutique
0.5 km
Explore Down the Street Boutique in Galena, IL for a unique selection of stylish clothing and accessories that capture the essence of local fashion.
FLASHBACK
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Flashback, a charming gift shop in Galena, Illinois, perfect for souvenirs and treasures.
Dream Catcher
0.5 km
Explore Dream Catcher, a charming gift shop in Galena, IL, featuring unique artisanal crafts and souvenirs that embody local artistry.
The Neighborhood Trading Company
0.5 km
Explore The Neighborhood Trading Company in Galena, IL for unique clothing and accessories that capture the essence of local fashion.
J. Marie’s Fine Gifts
0.6 km
Explore J. Marie’s Fine Gifts in Galena for unique handcrafted treasures and memorable souvenirs that embody the essence of this historic town.
Lulu's Too
0.6 km
Explore Lulu's Too in Galena: A Boutique Haven for Unique Gifts, Fashion, and Home Décor in a Charming Historic Town.
Simply Elegant Boutique
0.6 km
Explore Simply Elegant Boutique in Galena for unique fashion accessories, exquisite furniture, and expert interior design services that inspire style and elegance.
Elle & Beck's Lifestyle Boutique
0.6 km
Explore the charm of Galena at Elle & Beck's Boutique, where unique gifts, fashion, and artisanal coffee await in a cozy atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Root Beer Revelry
0.5 km
Discover Galena's Root Beer Revelry, a soft drink paradise featuring unique flavors and nostalgic charm for an unforgettable taste experience.
Jamie's Wine Studio of Galena
0.6 km
Discover the essence of local wines and unique gifts at Jamie's Wine Studio in Galena, a charming destination for every traveler.
Champagne on Main
0.6 km
Discover the cozy charm of Champagne on Main in Galena, where exquisite wines and craft cocktails await in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Galena Cellars Winery
0.7 km
Experience the best of Galena at Galena Cellars Winery, where exquisite wines, scenic views, and delightful cocktails await.
Massbach Ridge Winery Tasting Room Galena
0.7 km
Experience the exquisite local wines and charming atmosphere at Massbach Ridge Winery in Galena, Illinois, perfect for wine enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Galena Taphouse
0.8 km
Discover the heart of Galena at Galena Taphouse, where craft beer meets gourmet cuisine in a cozy setting.
Gold Room Bar
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Gold Room Bar in Galena, where great drinks and lively ambiance meet in the heart of Illinois.
wine & spirits weekend
1.1 km
Explore the Wine & Spirits Weekend in Galena, Illinois – a delightful bar experience perfect for tasting local wines and spirits in a charming atmosphere.
Birch Lounge Galena
3.6 km
Experience the cozy ambiance and local flavors at Birch Lounge, the perfect retreat for travelers in Galena, Illinois.
Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa
7.5 km
Discover luxury and tranquility at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa in Galena, where nature meets relaxation and fine dining.
Bluff City Slots
20.0 km
Bluff City Slots: A thrilling bar experience with exciting gaming and a vibrant atmosphere in East Dubuque.
Bubba's Pub
20.3 km
Discover the charm of La Motte at Bubba's Pub, where great drinks and delicious food meet a welcoming atmosphere for all.
L & J Bootlegger Saloon
20.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of L & J Bootlegger Saloon, a cozy bar in Hanover, IL, known for its friendly service and local charm.
Mississippi Moon Bar at Diamond Jo Dubuque
21.2 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Dubuque at Mississippi Moon Bar, where live music and great drinks await by the riverside.
First Reserve Whiskey Bar
21.4 km
Experience the finest selection of whiskeys and cocktails at First Reserve Whiskey Bar in the heart of Dubuque, Iowa.