Highlight (Segment) • Bridge
Road cycling
5.0
(8)
Cycling
5.0
(1)
Tips
January 13, 2024
Road cycling

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Nearby routes
Best routes near Palatine Bike Trail Wooden Bridge

1
riders
109km
04:32
390m
390m
The Palatine, Des Plaines & Elgin loop from Barrington is a popular road cycling route that truly delivers on varied scenery. You'll pedal through natural areas, past the serene Des Plaines River and Fox River, and even glimpse horse farms in the picturesque Barrington Hills. The route's mostly well-paved surfaces make it a smooth ride, with gentle climbs adding to the experience without being overly taxing.
This moderate 67.7-mile (108.9 km) loop, with its 1290 feet (393 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 4 hours and 31 minutes to complete. A good level of fitness is recommended for this longer ride. While specific parking information isn't detailed, starting from Barrington provides a convenient access point for this extensive circuit.
What makes this route stand out is its ability to connect several communities while offering a diverse range of riding experiences, from the oak woodlands of Grassy Lake to rural open spaces. It's considered a

5.0
(2)
21
riders
The Spring Lake Forest Preserve – Deer Grove Nature Preserve road cycling route from Palatine offers a diverse journey through varied landscapes, from the open grasslands and wetlands of Deer Grove to the rolling hills and deep woods of Spring Lake. You'll navigate a moderate 39.9-mile (64.2 km) loop with 1047 feet (319 metres) of elevation gain, which typically takes around 2 hours and 46 minutes. Expect a mix of well-maintained paved paths, especially along the Palatine Trail and within Deer Grove, alongside sections that might require careful navigation if you venture into Spring Lake's less-paved areas, providing a constantly changing visual experience.
When planning your ride, note that Deer Grove Nature Preserve provides excellent amenities, including ample parking, restrooms, and even a small convenience store at Camp Reinberg. While much of the route is suitable for road cycling, particularly the Deer Grove and Palatine Trail segments, be mindful that Spring Lake Forest Preserve's internal trails are largely unpaved and better suited for mountain bikes or hiking. For a smoother ride, stick to the perimeter roads around Spring Lake. This route is best enjoyed during dry conditions to avoid muddy sections in the unpaved areas.
This combined loop is notable for its connectivity, seamlessly linking the Deer Grove Trail with the popular Palatine Trail, creating extensive long-distance cycling opportunities. Deer Grove, as the first preserve acquired by the Forest Preserve District of Cook County, holds historical significance and showcases impressive restoration efforts, featuring diverse ecosystems like prairies, wetlands, and savannas. The blend of these distinct natural environments makes the Spring Lake Deer Grove Forest Preserve cycling map a compelling choice for those seeking a rich and varied outdoor experience near Palatine.

5.0
(1)
18
riders
25.9km
01:26
80m
80m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Details
Informations
Distance 1.46 km
Uphill 0 m
Downhill 10 m
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Tuesday 16 June
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56 %
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Max wind speed: 29.0 km/h
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