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Cycling routes
United States
Illinois
Cook County

Rosemont

The best cycling routes around Rosemont

4.6

(172)

866

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Touring cycling around Rosemont primarily utilizes its strategic location, providing access to extensive regional trail systems rather than significant natural features within the village itself. The area is characterized by a network of forest preserves, river trails, and green spaces. These routes often follow the Des Plaines River, winding through woodlands and prairies. While Rosemont itself is urban, the surrounding region offers diverse terrain for touring cyclists.

Best touring cycling routes around Rosemont

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Des Plaines River Trail, a 49.0 miles (78.9 km) trail that takes 6 hours 27 minutes to complete. This difficult route winds through woodlands and prairies along the river.
  • Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Camp Pine Woods Preserve โ€“ Des Plaines River Trail loop from Schiller Park, a moderate 29.1 miles (46.8 km) path. This route connects to the Des Plaines River Trail, offering diverse terrain through forest preserves.
  • Local touring cyclists also love the Catherine Chevalier Woods โ€“ Des Plaines River Trail loop from O'Hare Multi-Modal Facility, a 25.6 miles (41.1 km) trail leading through forest preserves and along the Des Plaines River, often completed in about 3 hours 8 minutes.
  • Touring cycling around Rosemont is defined by river trails, forest preserves, and green spaces. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy rides to more challenging segments.
  • The routes in Rosemont are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 111 reviews. More than 799 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Rosemont's varied terrain.

Last updated: August 21, 2026

4.0

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#1.

Des Plaines River Trail

78.9km

06:27

140m

140m

The Des Plaines River Trail offers a unique touring cycling experience, winding 49.0 miles (78.9 km) through a natural oasis that feels far removed from urban sprawl. You'll traverse diverse ecosystems, from open prairies and savannas to dense woodlands, with the terrain shifting from well-maintained crushed limestone in Lake County to rougher dirt and roots in Cook County. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer and birds, especially around spots like MacArthur Woods Forest Preserve, as the trail meanders alongside the river, providing continuous water views.

When planning your ride, be aware that the trail's 451 feet (138 metres) of elevation gain is spread out, making it mostly level, but the varied surfaces contribute to its difficult rating. It's crucial to check weather conditions before heading out, as underpasses and sections near the river can flood after heavy rains, making them impassable. A hybrid, gravel, or mountain bike is essential for tackling the mixed terrain, and you'll find numerous access points and parking options at the various forest preserves along the route.

What makes the Des Plaines River Trail truly notable is its role as a vital wildlife corridor and natural escape within a densely populated region. Unlike many rail-to-trail conversions, this route follows the river's natural course, offering a dynamic and ecologically rich journey. Its extensive length and connectivity to other regional trail systems also make it a prime choice for long-distance touring cyclists seeking a challenging and immersive outdoor adventure.

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Hard

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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The Camp Pine Woods Preserve โ€“ Des Plaines River Trail loop from Schiller Park offers a rewarding touring cycling experience, immersing you in a diverse natural landscape right in Cook County, Illinois. You'll pedal through a mosaic of oak-hickory woodlands, maple forests, prairies, and wetlands, all following the Des Plaines River. Expect varied terrain, from crushed limestone to packed dirt and rougher unpaved sections with roots and rocks, especially in the more natural Cook County stretch. Keep an eye out for wildlife like deer and hawks as you traverse this green corridor.

This moderate 29.1-mile (46.8 km) loop, with a gentle 220 feet (67 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 51 minutes. It's best suited for cyclists with good fitness and a hybrid, gravel, or mountain bike due to the varied surfaces. Be sure to check trail conditions before you go, as underpasses can flood after heavy rains, potentially blocking your path. Spring and summer are particularly pleasant for this ride.

Beyond the ride itself, the Camp Pine Woods Forest Preserve section has historical ties to a former WWII POW camp, adding a layer of interest to your journey. The Des Plaines River Trail system is extensive, connecting numerous forest preserves and offering a vital natural escape within the greater Chicago metropolitan area. It's a fantastic way to experience the region's ecosystems and spot wildlife.

Moderate

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Popular around Rosemont

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Tips from the Community

Xb
June 21, 2025, Des Plaines River

wet after rain, buggy when too dry, mostly idylic though bumpy. Recommend at least 35mm tires

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The Des Plaines River Trail runs through this surprisingly lush forest preserve. There's usually a porta pottie here from roughly May through October.

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good rest area

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This stretch of the Des Plaines River Trail at Camp Pine Woods Forest Preserve brings cyclists along a wide gravel path through a mix of oak-hickory woodlands and maple forests, set near the river. Surrounded by natural areas like sedge meadows and savannas, itโ€™s a quiet spot with historical ties to a former WWII POW camp.

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Dam No.1 Woods is a great spot to rest and recharge along the Des Plaines River Trail. With two sheltered picnic groves, itโ€™s an ideal place for a lunch break. The scenic surroundings make it a relaxing stop, whether you're out for a casual family ride, just starting your cycling journey, or looking for a quick breather on a longer ride.

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This stretch of the Des Plaines River Trail at Camp Pine Woods Forest Preserve brings hikers along a wide gravel path through a mix of oak-hickory woodlands and maple forests, set near the river. Surrounded by natural areas like sedge meadows and savannas, itโ€™s a quiet spot with historical ties to a former WWII POW camp.

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Watch for the railway crossing ahead, which lacks crossing lights and automatic rail bars. However, two cement blocks are placed just before the tracks to slow you down and alert you to proceed with caution. After crossing, you'll be back to the Des Plaines River Trail.

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MacArthur Woods is a preserved forest that showcases the original landscape of the eastern Des Plaines River Valley. The area features a diverse mix of plants, creating an important habitat for breeding forest birds, including the brown creeper, red-shouldered hawk, broad-winged hawk, veery, pileated woodpecker, and several rare warblers.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around Rosemont?

There are over 30 touring cycling routes available around Rosemont, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes primarily utilize the extensive regional trail systems accessible from the area.

What kind of landscapes can I expect on touring cycling routes near Rosemont?

While Rosemont itself is urban, touring cycling routes in the vicinity offer diverse landscapes. You can expect to ride through woodlands and prairies, often following river trails like the Des Plaines River. The region is characterized by a network of forest preserves and green spaces, providing a welcome contrast to the urban environment.

Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners?

Yes, approximately 18 of the routes around Rosemont are classified as easy, making them suitable for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. An example of an easy route is the Catherine Chevalier Woods loop from Cumberland, which covers about 12.3 miles (19.8 km).

Can I find longer touring cycling routes for more advanced cyclists?

Absolutely. For more advanced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are several difficult routes available. The Des Plaines River Trail is a notable option, stretching 49.0 miles (78.9 km) and winding through woodlands and prairies.

Are there circular touring cycling routes available?

Yes, many touring cycling routes near Rosemont are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point. An example is the Camp Pine Woods Preserve โ€“ Des Plaines River Trail loop from Schiller Park, a moderate 29.1-mile (46.8 km) path that connects to the Des Plaines River Trail.

What natural features or landmarks can I see along the routes?

The routes often pass through or near significant natural areas. You might encounter highlights such as Caldwell Woods, sections of the North Branch Trail, and the Robinson Woods North Trail Along Des Plaines River. The Des Plaines River Trail itself is a major feature, offering scenic views as it winds through woodlands and prairies.

How accessible are the touring cycling routes by public transport?

Rosemont's strategic location, particularly its proximity to O'Hare International Airport and various public transport options, makes it a convenient base for accessing nearby trail networks. Many regional trails, such as the Des Plaines River Trail, have access points that can be reached via public transport connections, though specific access points vary.

Where can I find parking near the touring cycling trails?

Parking is generally available at various access points and forest preserves along the major trail systems like the Des Plaines River Trail and Busse Woods Trail. For instance, routes originating from locations like the O'Hare Multi-Modal Facility or Schiller Park often have parking facilities nearby, making it easy to start your ride.

Are the touring cycling routes around Rosemont family-friendly?

Many of the easier routes and sections of the larger trail systems are suitable for families. The extensive network of forest preserves and green spaces provides safe and enjoyable environments for cyclists of all ages. Look for routes classified as 'easy' for the most family-friendly options.

What do other cyclists enjoy most about touring cycling in Rosemont?

The touring cycling routes around Rosemont are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 111 reviews. Cyclists often praise the accessibility to extensive regional trail systems, the diverse terrain through forest preserves, and the peaceful experience of riding along river trails away from urban bustle.

What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Rosemont?

The spring, summer, and fall months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling around Rosemont. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the natural landscapes of the forest preserves and river trails are at their most vibrant. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Are there any routes that offer a mix of forest and river views?

Yes, many routes in the region combine both forest and river views. For example, the Catherine Chevalier Woods โ€“ Des Plaines River Trail loop from O'Hare Multi-Modal Facility leads through forest preserves and directly along the Des Plaines River, offering a beautiful blend of natural scenery.

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