The best cycling routes in Grundy County
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Touring cycling in Grundy County, Illinois, features routes along historic pathways and diverse natural landscapes. The region is characterized by the Illinois & Michigan Canal State Trail, which follows the canal connecting Lake Michigan to the Illinois River. Terrain often includes varied surfaces such as crushed limestone, asphalt, and gravel, with generally minimal elevation gain. Expansive prairie landscapes and river views are common throughout the area.
Best touring cycling routes in Grundy County
- The most popular touring cycling route is DuPage River Bridge – Historic I & M Canal lock loop from Aux Sable, a 27.9 miles (45.0 km) trail that takes 3 hours 49 minutes to complete. This route offers scenic views along the historic I&M Canal.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is DuPage River Bridge – Historic I & M Canal lock loop from Troy Township, a moderate 32.4 miles (52.1 km) path. This trail features mostly flat terrain suitable for a longer ride.
- Local touring cyclists also love the DuPage River Bridge – Historic I & M Canal lock loop from Channahon, a 18.1 miles (29.1 km) trail leading through riverine landscapes and historical canal sections, often completed in about 2 hours 24 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Grundy County is defined by historic canal towpaths, river valleys, and expansive prairie lands. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy rides to more challenging long-distance routes.
- The routes in Grundy County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 40 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Grundy County's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 30, 2026
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Grundy County
Tips from the Community
The Rock Run Greenway Trail is a popular multiuse trail that runs through Rock Run Preserve. The path is paved and flat, so it is not a challenging trail. It takes you through beautiful landscapes, including woodlands, prairie and wetland.
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The cycleway only cruises past the DuPage River briefly, so enjoy the view while you have it! The trail will spend more time along the canal that shoots off from the river.
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This spot looks like a bridge for people, and I suppose it does serve that purpose. But it's actually an aqueduct that was built to let the I&M Canal flow over Sable Creek. So basically, it's a bridge for the canal to flow over the creek.
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nice overlook for a stop off I&M
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The Rock Run Greenway Trail is a popular multiuse trail that runs through Rock Run Preserve. The path is paved and flat, so it is not a challenging trail. It takes you through beautiful landscapes, including woodlands, prairie and wetland.
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Rock Run Preserve Theodore Marsh is a beautiful 292-acre preservation system that conserves over 1,450 acres of land. It is home to diverse habitats, including forests, prairies, wetlands, and more than 100 bird species. Theodore Marsh offers several amenities and activities for visitors, including the nearby 11.24-mile paved Rock Run Greenway Trail, a perfect setting for biking, hiking and running.
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The Illinois & Michigan Canal Trail is a 96-mile trail that runs alongside the canal of the same name. The trail is mostly unpaved towpath and is popular with cyclists, walkers and runners.
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One of the historic locks on the Illinois & Michigan Canal. There are 15 in total on the canal, but this is one of the most well-kept on the canal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Grundy County?
Grundy County offers 9 touring cycling routes, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 4 easy routes, 4 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route to explore.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Grundy County?
The routes in Grundy County primarily follow the historic Illinois & Michigan (I&M) Canal State Trail. You can expect varied surfaces, including well-maintained crushed limestone, grass, asphalt, and gravel. The terrain generally features minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for a wide range of cyclists.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Grundy County?
Yes, Grundy County has several easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the Historic I & M Canal lock – DuPage River Bridge loop from McDonald's is an easy 19 km ride, perfect for a leisurely family outing along the canal.
What are some scenic highlights or landmarks I can see while cycling in Grundy County?
Many routes offer scenic views along the Des Plaines and Illinois Rivers. You can explore historical sites like the I&M Canal itself, educational markers, and the Grundy County Historical Museum. State parks such as Channahon State Park and Gebhard Woods State Park also provide picturesque settings with mature trees and wildflowers.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Grundy County?
Yes, many routes in Grundy County are designed as loops. A popular moderate option is the DuPage River Bridge – Historic I & M Canal lock loop from Aux Sable, which covers 45 km and offers scenic views along the historic I&M Canal.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Grundy County?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the historic canal towpaths, the generally flat terrain, and the diverse natural landscapes, including river valleys and expansive prairie lands.
Are there options for longer, more challenging touring cycling routes?
Yes, for those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, the Otawa – Old I&M Canal Trail loop from Morris is a difficult 73.7 km route that provides an extended exploration of the region's historical pathways.
Where can I find parking or access points for the touring cycling routes?
Channahon State Park serves as an official trailhead for the I&M Canal State Trail, offering convenient access. Other towns along the canal, such as Morris, also provide access points and parking facilities for cyclists.
Can I combine cycling with other outdoor activities in Grundy County?
Absolutely. Many state parks along the cycling routes, like Channahon State Park and Gebhard Woods State Park, offer opportunities for picnicking, fishing, and nature observation. The Mazonia-Braidwood State Fish and Wildlife Area also provides options for nature study and birding.
What is the typical duration for a touring cycling route in Grundy County?
Route durations vary depending on length and difficulty. For example, a moderate route like the DuPage River Bridge – Historic I & M Canal lock loop from Channahon (29.1 km) can be completed in about 2 hours 24 minutes, while longer routes may take over 6 hours.
Are there any specific natural areas worth exploring near the cycling trails?
Beyond the I&M Canal, you can explore expansive prairie landscapes at Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area and Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie. The Des Plaines Fish and Wildlife Area also offers tranquil settings and abundant wildlife, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Are there any routes that offer a good balance of distance and moderate challenge?
Certainly. The DuPage River Bridge – Historic I & M Canal lock loop from Troy Township is a popular moderate 52.1 km path that features mostly flat terrain, making it suitable for a longer, yet comfortable, ride.
Most popular routes in Grundy County
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