The best road cycling routes around Golf
4.5
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2,491
riders
63
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Road cycling around Golf, Illinois, features a network of paved routes primarily traversing flat terrain through various forest preserves and suburban areas. The region is characterized by its low elevation gains, making it suitable for accessible road cycling. Routes often connect natural spaces like the Skokie Lagoons and various woods preserves, offering a blend of natural and developed landscapes.
Best road cycling routes around Golf
- The most popular road cycling route is Skokie Lagoons – Skokie Lagoon No. 3 loop from Golf, a 24.1 miles (38.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 31 minutes to complete. This easy route explores the scenic Skokie Lagoons area.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Caldwell Woods – Edgebrook Woods loop from Glenview, an easy 21.6 miles (34.8 km) path. This route connects two significant wooded preserves, offering a varied landscape.
- Local road cyclists also love the Lincoln Park – Lakefront Trail, Chicago loop from Dempster-Skokie, a 30.2 miles (48.7 km) trail leading through urban parklands and along the Chicago Lakefront, often completed in about 1 hour 59 minutes.
- Road cycling around Golf is defined by its flat, paved paths, connecting forest preserves and suburban green spaces. The network offers options for different ability levels, predominantly featuring easy to moderate routes.
- The routes in Golf are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 260 reviews. More than 2,300 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Golf's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 4, 2026
5.0
(21)
194
riders
38.9km
01:31
50m
50m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(3)
228
riders
48.7km
02:01
90m
90m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(1)
69
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
57
riders
43.4km
01:44
80m
80m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(60)
115
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
End of bike trail heading north
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This is the house where the movie Home Alone was filmed—a fun spot to stop by and remember this iconic film before continuing your ride.
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A small, family-friendly park along the Green Bay Trail that’s a good place to stop and recharge. It has shaded grassy areas—perfect for a quick break.
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The southern portion of Skokie Lagoons is where the North Branch Paved Red Trail runs through a shaded area alongside the Skokie River West Ditch—a refreshing and less busy stretch to ride near the lagoons.
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The North Branch Paved Trail is a 20-mile paved trail that follows the North Branch of the Chicago River. The trail winds through forests and fields, so keep your eye out for wildlife, especially deer.
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Great trail to ride on. Watch out for people walking, it can get busy on a nice day.
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Hiking, running, and biking are popular activities in this area, with the well-known North Branch Trail running through and providing both paved and unpaved trails to enjoy. The North Branch of the Chicago River also flows through the area, offering scenic water views.
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Caldwell Woods, situated on Chicago's northwest side, offers diverse recreational features including picnic groves, activity spaces, a warming shelter, sledding hill, and access to the well-loved North Branch Trail. Despite its compact size, this preserve boasts rich biodiversity, encompassing flatwoods, floodplain forests, open savanna, and oak woodlands, providing visitors with a varied and enjoyable natural experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Golf, Illinois?
Road cycling routes around Golf, Illinois, are predominantly flat and paved, making them suitable for accessible cycling. You'll find routes traversing through various forest preserves and suburban areas, often connecting natural spaces like the Skokie Lagoons.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Golf area?
There are over 70 road cycling routes available around Golf, Illinois, catering to various preferences. Most of these, about 46, are rated as easy, with 24 moderate routes, ensuring options for different ability levels.
Are there any scenic routes that explore the Skokie Lagoons?
Yes, a popular option is the Skokie Lagoons – Skokie Lagoon No. 3 loop from Golf. This easy 24.1-mile route allows you to explore the beautiful Skokie Lagoons area, offering a blend of natural scenery.
What do other cyclists say about the road cycling experience in Golf?
The road cycling routes in Golf are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 140 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained, flat paths and the scenic beauty of the forest preserves and lagoons.
Are there any routes that connect different wooded preserves?
Absolutely. The Caldwell Woods – Edgebrook Woods loop from Glenview is an easy 21.6-mile route that connects two significant wooded preserves, offering a varied and enjoyable landscape for your ride.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
Many routes pass by notable natural features and landmarks. You can encounter areas like Skokie Lagoon No. 3, the Harms Woods Preserve, and even cultural sites like the Baháʼí House of Worship Wilmette or the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park.
Are there any moderate difficulty road cycling routes for a bit more challenge?
Yes, for a slightly more challenging ride, consider the Skokie Lagoons – Harms Woods Preserve loop from Morton Grove. This moderate 14.2-mile route offers a good workout while still enjoying the area's natural beauty.
Can I find routes that are suitable for a shorter ride, perhaps through a local park?
Yes, for a shorter, easy ride, the Shelton Park loop from Regina Dominican High School is a great option. This 14.2-mile route provides a pleasant ride through a local park setting.
Are there any routes that specifically go through Linne Woods Preserve?
Yes, the Linne Woods Preserve – Edgebrook Woods loop from Morton Grove is a popular 17.1-mile trail that leads directly through Linne Woods Preserve, offering a serene cycling experience.
What is the best time of year for road cycling around Golf, Illinois?
Given the flat terrain and connection to forest preserves, spring, summer, and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling around Golf. These seasons provide comfortable temperatures and vibrant natural scenery.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots along the routes?
While the routes are generally flat, you can find scenic spots, particularly around the lagoons and preserves. For instance, Lakefill point offers a nice view, and the various forest preserves provide picturesque natural settings.
Are there any routes that offer access to beaches or waterfront areas?
While Golf, Illinois, is inland, some routes might bring you close to lakefront areas. For example, you might find access to spots like Lee Street Beach or Burnham Shores Park, which are located on nearby lakes.
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