The best cycling routes around Lincolnwood

The Lakefront Trail offers a unique touring cycling experience along Chicago's iconic shoreline. You'll ride a paved path, enjoying continuous views of Lake Michigan on one side and the city's dynamic skyline on the other. The scenery shifts as you pass through major lakefront parks like Lincoln Park and Grant Park, providing a blend of serene natural beauty and bustling urban backdrops. This moderate route covers 26.3 miles (42.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 221 feet (67 metres), typically taking about 2 hours and 23 minutes to complete.

To make the most of your visit, consider riding in the early morning or during shoulder seasons if you prefer a quieter experience, as the trail can be very busy, especially on summer weekends. Bike rentals, including Divvy bikes, are readily available along the route, and you'll find numerous entry points connecting to the city via underpasses and pedestrian bridges. The path is well-signposted with markers every half-mile, and convenient restrooms and refreshment stops are located along the way.

This route is a fantastic way to explore Chicago's blend of natural beauty and architectural grandeur. As you cycle, you can easily stop at iconic attractions such as Navy Pier, gaining a unique perspective of the city. The trail's accessibility and continuous scenic appeal make it a standout option for anyone looking to experience the city from a different vantage point.

Embark on the North Branch Trail and Botanic Garden Loop for a challenging touring bicycle adventure. This difficult route stretches for 57.9 miles (93.3 km), offering a diverse landscape primarily on flat asphalt paths. You will gain 419 feet (128 metres) in elevation over an estimated 5 hours and 21 minutes of riding. As you pedal, you'll follow the North Branch of the Chicago River, winding through extensive forest preserves such as Turnbull Woods and McDonald Woods. A true highlight is cycling directly through the Chicago Botanic Garden, where you can explore its 385 acres of varied gardens and landscapes, guided by informative signs.

Planning your ride is straightforward, as the trail is well-equipped with amenities. You will find plentiful parking lots, convenient bathrooms, and pleasant picnic areas located along the route. You can access the Chicago Botanic Garden directly from the trail, and bicycle racks are available near the Visitor Center for easy parking. This offers a free and unique way to experience the gardens, making it a perfect mid-ride stop.

This route stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty and cultivated landscapes. It provides an excellent opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystems of the Chicago area, from riverine forests to meticulously designed gardens. The entire length of the paved trail was repaved in 2007, ensuring a consistently smooth and well-maintained surface for your touring bicycle. This makes for a comfortable and enjoyable journey through a significant portion of the region's green spaces.

Embark on a challenging touring cycling adventure along the Des Plaines River Trail and North Branch Trail Loop. This difficult route spans 48.7 miles (78.3 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 479 feet (146 metres), typically taking around 5 hours and 5 minutes to complete. As you pedal, you'll experience a natural escape, winding through diverse ecosystems of woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, hawks, and fox. You'll pass through tranquil spots like Dam Number 1 Woods, offering a serene backdrop to your ride.

Before you set out, be aware that sections of the Des Plaines River Trail, particularly in Cook County, feature varied surfaces that can be rough, muddy after rain, or have roots and uneven patches. Some underpasses along the route are prone to flooding, which might require you to take detours onto adjacent roads. For the best experience on this trail, a hybrid or gravel bike is strongly recommended over a pure road bike to handle the diverse terrain effectively.

This extensive loop offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature right outside the city, tracing the paths of both the Des Plaines River and the North Branch of the Chicago River. The trail is notable for its blend of natural beauty and accessibility, providing a significant outdoor experience within the region. You'll encounter scenic sections like the North Branch Red Paved Trail, adding to the visual interest of your journey.

Embark on an easy touring cycling adventure along the Valley Line and North Shore Channel Trail Loop, a 12.4-mile (20.0 km) route that promises varied scenery. You'll experience a gentle ride with only 58 feet (18 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour and 8 minutes. The North Shore Channel section offers picturesque views of the canal and leads you past the impressive Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park, home to over 60 large outdoor artworks. As you transition to the Valley Line Trail, the atmosphere shifts to a quieter journey through pleasant neighborhood settings, often skirting the green expanse of Sauganash Park. Expect a comfortable ride on a mix of paved surfaces, from smooth asphalt to crushed limestone.

For a convenient start to your touring cycling trip, consider parking at Sauganash Park, where you'll also find restrooms available. This location serves as an excellent trailhead for the loop. While the route is generally flat and easy, it's important to remain attentive, especially on the North Shore Channel Trail. This section features several at-grade street crossings, many equipped with traffic lights, so be prepared to navigate these intersections carefully. Planning your ride during off-peak hours can enhance your experience.

This loop uniquely combines two distinct trail experiences, offering both the vibrant, art-filled corridor of the North Shore Channel and the more serene, tree-lined paths of the Valley Line Trail. The presence of the Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park makes this route particularly notable, providing a cultural dimension to your outdoor activity. It's an ideal choice if you're looking for a relaxed ride that blends natural beauty with interesting urban features and public art.