The best road cycling routes around Long Grove
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Road cycling routes around Long Grove, Illinois, traverse a landscape characterized by extensive forest preserves, river corridors, and open parklands. The region features gentle elevation changes, making it accessible for various skill levels. Cyclists can expect routes that wind through natural areas like the Lake County Forest Preserves and along the Des Plaines River, offering a mix of paved surfaces and scenic views. The terrain is generally flat to gently rolling, providing a consistent experience for road cyclists.
Best road cycling routes around Long Grove
- The most popular road cycling route is Boardwalk at Century Park – Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve loop from Vernon Hills, a 38.8 miles (62.5 km) trail that takes 2 hours 45 minutes to complete. This route connects scenic parklands and forest preserves.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Des Plaines River Trail – Boardwalk at Century Park loop from Mundelein, an easy 20.0 miles (32.2 km) path. This route follows the Des Plaines River Trail, offering views of the waterway and surrounding nature.
- Local road cyclists also love the Chicago Botanic Gardens loop from Mundelein, a 38.6 miles (62.1 km) trail leading through the vicinity of the Chicago Botanic Gardens, often completed in about 2 hours 55 minutes.
- Road cycling around Long Grove is defined by its extensive forest preserves, river trails, and charming village areas. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more moderate distances.
- The routes in Long Grove are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 700 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Long Grove's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
51
riders
43.1km
01:57
160m
160m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
19
riders
32.2km
01:35
110m
110m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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20
riders
52.5km
02:41
180m
180m
If you're looking for a road cycling route near Mundelein that offers more than just smooth asphalt, the Butler Lake – Ravine Park loop presents a unique challenge. This 32.6-mile (52.5 km) journey, with a moderate difficulty rating, guides you through a blend of local roads and multi-use paths, providing glimpses of diverse woodlands and the serene Butler Lake Park. Be ready for a varied experience, as some segments may include unpaved sections, making it an ideal choice for gravel or hybrid bikes rather than pure road bikes.
Planning your ride on this 2-hour and 40-minute loop means preparing for mixed terrain and 599 feet (183 metres) of elevation gain. While specific trailhead parking isn't detailed, you'll find access points and parking options within the broader Mundelein area. It's wise to check local conditions, especially after rain, as unpaved sections can become more challenging. This route is best enjoyed by cyclists with good fitness who appreciate a dynamic ride.
What makes this route stand out is its combination of natural beauty and the unexpected challenge of mixed surfaces, distinguishing it from purely paved Mundelein road cycling routes. While Butler Lake Park offers tranquil views, and Ravine Park is known for its nature trails, this loop connects these areas via a network that showcases the region's gently rolling hills and diverse ecosystems. It's a great option for exploring the natural features of Lake County beyond the typical urban sprawl.
12
riders
59.5km
02:47
140m
140m
The Northcroft Park – Skokie Valley Bikeway loop from Mundelein offers a smooth and consistent road cycling experience, perfect for those who appreciate a flat, paved surface. You'll primarily ride along the Skokie Valley Trail, a narrow green belt that follows an old railroad right-of-way, passing through suburban areas with occasional glimpses of nature. While not known for panoramic views, the trail provides a pleasant, uninterrupted ride, allowing you to focus on your pace and enjoy the open path.
This moderate 37.0 miles (59.5 km) route, with a minimal 452 feet (138 metres) of elevation gain, is a great choice for beginners or for maintaining a steady training rhythm, typically taking around 2 hours and 47 minutes to complete. Accessing the Skokie Valley Bikeway from Mundelein will involve navigating local roads to connect to the main trail. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for cycling in most seasons, offering a reliable option for a consistent ride.
The Skokie Valley Trail is a significant part of the regional cycling network, known for its excellent maintenance and connectivity. It follows the historic corridor of the Chicago North Shore and Milwaukee Railroad, with active tracks still paralleling the path. This trail connects to other important paths like the North Shore Bike Path, making it a valuable link for longer rides and exploring the wider Lake County area.
19
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve, an Illinois gem, combines history and nature. Amidst remnants of the former military base, discover scenic trails, woodlands, and Lake Michigan's shoreline for a diverse outdoor experience.
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With the lake, playground, sports fields, paths, picnic, and bbq areas Butler Lake Park has everything you'll need for a day out.
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This bronze sculpture is a tribute to General Sheridan, a Civil War general. It depicts him on a horse during Battle of Five Forks in April 1865.
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Deer Grove Nature Preserve is a beautiful 2,000 acre park. It has a large lake in the center, and several miles of paved trails that wind through the park.
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Vernon Hills has an excellent network of bike trails, exemplified no better than at Century Park. Paved paths explore the gardens and take you all around the edge of Big and Little Bear Lake. Here a little bridge swoops out in an arc across the water as you follow the shoreline.
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The Lakewood Forest Preserve is a nature preserve with a popular multi-use path, the Millennium Trail, running through it. This is a great place to explore on a bike or on foot with attractive lakes and open field.
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You get a lovely view of the Fort Sheridan Pond and the woodland surrounding it. With such a lovely view directly from the relatively quiet road, this is a lovely spot to pass by on your cycle.
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Lakewood Forest Preserve is Lake County’s largest forest preserve and it offers a plethora of activities including biking along sections of the regional Millennium Trail and Fort Hill Trail.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Long Grove?
There are over 80 road cycling routes around Long Grove, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. You'll find everything from easy loops to more challenging, longer rides.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Long Grove?
The terrain around Long Grove is generally flat to gently rolling, characterized by extensive forest preserves, river corridors, and open parklands. This makes it accessible for various skill levels, with routes winding through natural areas like the Lake County Forest Preserves and along the Des Plaines River.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Long Grove?
Yes, Long Grove offers several easy road cycling routes. For instance, the Des Plaines River Trail – Boardwalk at Century Park loop from Mundelein is an easy 20-mile path that follows the Des Plaines River Trail, providing scenic views and a consistent experience for those new to road cycling or looking for a relaxed ride.
What are some of the longer or more challenging road cycling routes in the area?
For those seeking a longer ride, the Deer Grove Nature Preserve – Lakewood Forest Preserve loop from Mundelein is a moderate 65-mile route with nearly 500 meters of elevation gain. Another excellent option is the Lakewood Forest Preserve – Taylor Lake loop from Prairie View, which covers over 50 miles and features significant elevation changes.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
Many routes offer scenic views of natural features. You can cycle past Independence Grove Lake, follow the Des Plaines River Trail through Half Day Forest Preserve, or explore areas near the MacArthur Woods Forest Preserve. The region is rich with lakes and forest preserves, providing diverse landscapes.
Are there any routes that pass by the Chicago Botanic Gardens?
Yes, the Chicago Botanic Gardens loop from Mundelein is a popular 38.6-mile route that leads through the vicinity of the Chicago Botanic Gardens, offering a beautiful backdrop for your ride.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Long Grove?
The road cycling routes in Long Grove are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paths, the scenic beauty of the forest preserves, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Long Grove?
Long Grove offers pleasant cycling conditions through much of the year. Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer, while winter cycling is possible for those prepared for colder conditions, especially on cleared paths.
Are there any specific routes that connect different parklands or forest preserves?
Absolutely. The Boardwalk at Century Park – Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve loop from Vernon Hills is a prime example, connecting scenic parklands and forest preserves over a 38.8-mile distance, allowing you to experience diverse natural settings in one ride.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes in Long Grove?
Many of the forest preserves and parks in and around Long Grove, such as Century Park, Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve, and those along the Des Plaines River Trail, offer designated parking areas for trail access. It's advisable to check specific preserve websites for detailed parking information before your ride.
Can I access road cycling routes in Long Grove using public transportation?
While Long Grove itself is primarily accessed by car, some nearby towns like Mundelein, which serve as starting points for several routes, may have public transportation options that connect to the wider Chicago metropolitan area. However, direct public transport access to all trailheads might be limited.
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