The best road cycling routes around North Riverside

There are over 45 road cycling routes available around North Riverside, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. This includes 15 easy routes, 29 moderate routes, and a couple of more challenging options.

North Riverside's road cycling routes are generally flat, traversing accessible riverside trails, green spaces, and forest preserves. While many routes are on well-paved surfaces, some do feature small hills, particularly along trails like the Des Plaines River Trail, providing a varied experience.

Yes, North Riverside offers several family-friendly road cycling options. The Brookfield Woods – Salt Creek loop from Brookfield is an easy route, perfect for families. The Salt Creek Greenway Trail, known for its well-paved surfaces and connection to a larger network, also provides many easy sections suitable for all ages.

Many routes pass through or near significant natural areas. You can explore Brookfield Woods, ride along the Salt Creek Greenway Red - Paved Trail, or discover the unique North Island. For those interested in history and architecture, the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio is also nearby.

Parking is generally available near trailheads and parks that provide access to the cycling network. For instance, routes utilizing the Salt Creek Trail or Des Plaines River Trail often have designated parking areas within the adjacent forest preserves. Commons Park in North Riverside also offers amenities including a bike path and parking.

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in North Riverside. During these seasons, the trails are typically clear, and the surrounding green spaces, prairies, and marshes are vibrant. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions can vary with snow and ice.

Many of the trails in the North Riverside area, particularly those within forest preserves like the Salt Creek Trail and Des Plaines River Trail, are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and check specific preserve rules for any restrictions.

The road cycling routes around North Riverside are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 27 reviews. Cyclists often praise the accessible riverside trails, the variety of green spaces, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable rides.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, routes like the Salt Creek – Salt Creek Woods loop from Harlem Avenue covers over 77 kilometers (48 miles). Additionally, the Salt Creek Greenway Trail itself is a 25-mile path that connects to a larger 210-mile trail network in northeast Illinois, offering extensive long-distance opportunities.

North Riverside's location provides reasonable access to public transport options that can get you close to various trailheads. While direct access to every starting point might vary, researching local bus or train lines that connect to the vicinity of major trails like the Salt Creek Trail or Des Plaines River Trail is advisable.

While the region is generally flat, some routes offer more elevation gain. For example, the Salt Creek – Salt Creek Woods loop from Harlem Avenue features over 200 meters (650 feet) of ascent, providing a more demanding ride compared to the flatter options.

Many cyclists enjoy moderate routes such as the Lilac Park loop from Oak Park, which covers about 49 kilometers with over 110 meters of ascent. Another popular choice is the Night Heron Trail trailhead – La Grange Park Woods loop from Forest Park, offering a similar distance and elevation through wooded areas.