Compared to the Illinois Prairie Path Main Stem running from Maywood to Weaton, the Palos Forest Preserve is infinitely more mountain bike friendly (and more technically challenging, too). For starters - there are exponentially fewer streets to cross and much more forest scenery (which one would expect from a forest preserve). The preserve is beautiful - lots of trees, ponds, lakes, and prairie sections.
Don't expect any serious climbs or downhills . . . don't expect semi-serious climbs or downhills either. The quickest elevation changes are in the "Three Ravines" section of the trail. Don't envision Utah-style ravines, dropping hundreds of feet . . . think more along the lines of small washes, or about 10 feet in rapid elevation change. "Ho Chi Minh" is somewhat washed out and rocky. The "Yellow Trail" provides a nice 8.3 mile loop roaming through wooded areas reminiscent of the oak groves in Chesebro Canyon, Agoura, California. "The Out & Back" section, which breaks off from the "Yellow Trail" provides some fun, slalom-like single-track.
My favorite section was "Gravity Cavity." One section of the trail snakes down a small "hill" which provides enough momentum to whip through some banked turns built by riders.
Overall - a fun area, lots of trails, and not too difficult. Because there are no climbs/downhills, be ready for constant pedaling. After riding hard for two hours last week after a good 5 mile run the day before, my legs appreciated the recovery I gave them over the weekend.
I may review some other trails in the area, provided I go ride them. Anyways - to my west coast and mountain region mountain biking readers, enjoy those trails out there!
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