The best cycling routes in Cook County

Cook County offers a vast network for touring cyclists, with over 400 routes available. These range from easy, family-friendly paths to more challenging rides, catering to various skill levels.

Yes, Cook County is very accommodating for easy touring. Over 280 of the available routes are classified as easy, making it simple to find a relaxed ride. An excellent option for a mostly paved, easy ride is the Lakefront/Route 66 loop — Chicago, which covers about 15.6 miles (25.1 km).

Many routes in Cook County are designed as loops, offering convenient circular tours. For example, the Ned Brown Forest Preserve loop — Schaumburg is a popular 9.6-mile (15.5 km) ride through open grassy areas and woods. Another option is the Poplar Creek Forest Preserve loop — Schaumburg, which is about 11.7 miles (18.8 km).

Cook County's touring routes traverse diverse natural landscapes. You'll encounter vast forest preserves, including oak woodlands, floodplain forests, and prairies. Many trails follow rivers like the Des Plaines River and Salt Creek, offering scenic views of wetlands and waterways. Some areas, such as Brookfield Woods, even feature interesting glacial valleys and moraines.

Yes, several routes pass by notable attractions. For instance, the North Branch Trail connects to the Chicago Botanic Garden, which is free to access by bike. You can also find various lakes and natural monuments. Consider exploring areas near Busse Lake — North and Main Pools or the Skokie Lagoon No. 3 for scenic views. The Botanic Gardens loop — Chicago is a great way to experience some of these sights.

Cook County's trails are enjoyable throughout all four seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer provides lush green scenery. Even in winter, many paved trails remain accessible, though conditions can vary, so it's always best to check local trail conditions before heading out.

The touring cycling routes in Cook County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 850 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive network of well-maintained trails, the peaceful forest preserves, and the diverse natural beauty that makes each ride unique.

Yes, Cook County offers several longer routes for those seeking extended rides. The North Branch Trail loop — Evanston is a challenging 58-mile (93.3 km) route, and the Des Plaines River Trail loop — Robinson Woods South covers nearly 49 miles (78.9 km), offering extensive exploration of the region's natural areas.

Many forest preserves and trailheads in Cook County offer designated parking areas. For detailed information on specific trail access points, including parking and public transport options, it's recommended to consult the official Forest Preserves of Cook County website, which provides comprehensive resources for visitors. You can find more information on their trails at cookcountyil.gov/service/trails.

Absolutely. The vast forest preserves and diverse habitats, including oak woodlands, prairies, and wetlands, are home to a variety of wildlife. Cyclists often report seeing deer, various bird species, and other small animals, especially in quieter sections of trails like those in Busse Woods or along the Des Plaines River Trail.

Yes, several routes provide stunning views of the Chicago lakefront. The Navy Pier/Rogers Park out and back — Chicago is a popular 26.3-mile (42.3 km) route that offers scenic views along the city's waterfront. Another option is the Lakefront Trail out and back — Chicago, which is an easy 11.4-mile (18.3 km) ride.

While many routes are easy or moderate, Cook County does offer options for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge. There are 9 routes classified as difficult. The Evanston Lighthouse via the Lakefront Trail — Chicago is a moderate to difficult route covering over 47 miles (77 km) with more elevation gain, providing a longer and more demanding ride.