North Branch Trail Photos
Edens Exp to Skokie Lagoons

Continuing north on the North Branch Trail, north of Lake Ave and past Happ Road (where New Trier West used to be) the NB Trail passes under the Edens Expressway (Interstate 94).

The trail actually follows the Skokie River and goes around the Skokie Lagoons at this point even though it is still called the North Branch Trail. The North Branch River split off heading in a more northerly direction just before Happ Road.

Right here, at the Tower Road Boat Launch (on one of the Skokie Lagoons), is where the North Branch Trail splits into 2 sections. The west leg (red trail) and east leg (black trail). Turn left here for the west leg (black trail). I took the east side both ways since it is quieter (farther from the expressway) and I like it better.

A couple of kayakers were passing by as I took the bridge over this Skokie Lagoon. This is right before the parking lot and boat rentals.

These guys were on the east branch of the NBT and seemed to be having a great time! They were laughing, said hi as they passed and were very friendly. It was a quick encounter but just gave me the impression that they were having a great time and enjoying the ride and each other's company.

A picnic table and view of the Skokie Lagoon along this part of the NBT as the sun was going down. This part of the trail is much more open with views of the Skokie Lagoons as you continue on the trail.

A little closer view of the picnic table and skokie lagoon from the NBT.

This is the very northern section of the North Branch Trail a little before it crosses Dundee Road and connects to the Chicago Botanic Gardens.

I rode through the Botanic Gardens on this ride and have included some photos from that part of the ride on the last page in this photo tour (page #6 below). One of the really nice things about riding the northern part of this trail is the connection to the Botanic Gardens since it is fairly expensive to go into the BG if you drive and it is totally free when you ride.

The sun behind the trees and the lake in the distance as I rode the North Branch Trail in the early evening.