4.8
(30)
758
riders
30
rides
Road cycling routes around McCook primarily traverse a relatively flat landscape, characterized by numerous creeks, wooded areas, and established paved trails. The region offers a network of paths that often follow waterways like Salt Creek and connect various local woods and sloughs. Elevations are generally low, providing accessible riding conditions for a range of abilities.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
5.0
(2)
82
riders
34.6km
01:22
80m
80m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
19
riders
34.7km
01:35
80m
80m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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5.0
(1)
16
riders
87.8km
03:50
180m
180m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(2)
9
riders
77.7km
03:20
210m
210m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
14
riders
39.5km
02:06
100m
100m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Columbia Woods is a forest preserve located near Willow Springs, Illinois, at the western edge of the Cook County Forest Preserves. It offers access to the Chicago Portage National Historic Site and serves as a key entry point to the Des Plaines River Trail and the I&M Canal Trail, making it a popular starting spot for long bike rides or hikes. The preserve features a boat launch for paddlers on the Des Plaines River, as well as shaded picnic areas and quiet wooded paths. While it’s more low-key than other preserves, its location and river access make it a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts.
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This section of the Centennial Trail takes you from Lemont to Willow Springs and passes through Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve. The path passes through a treelined, green landscape and is a very relaxing place to ride.
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Great microbrewery and pizza on the trail in Willow Springs
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The John Husar I & M Canal Trail has a fascinating history, connecting Lake Michigan to the Mississippi River long ago. Now, it's a wonderful place to visit and ride along. With lots of trees and beautiful views of the canal, it's a perfect spot for a scenic and enjoyable ride.
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Nestled alongside the Salt Creek Greenway, Salt Creek offers a tranquil spot for hikers. It's an ideal place for a water break and to enjoy the serene surroundings. Be aware, though, that the creek is prone to flooding during wet seasons.
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Nestled alongside the Salt Creek Greenway, Salt Creek offers a tranquil spot for cyclists. It's an ideal place for a water break and to enjoy the serene surroundings. Be aware, though, that the creek is prone to flooding during wet seasons.
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Nestled alongside the Salt Creek Greenway, Salt Creek offers a tranquil spot for cyclists. It's an ideal place for a water break and to enjoy the serene surroundings. Be aware, though, that the creek is prone to flooding during wet seasons.
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There are over 35 road cycling routes around McCook, offering a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Yes, McCook offers several easy road cycling routes. For instance, the Brookfield Woods – Salt Creek loop from Brookfield is an easy 9.5-mile path featuring gentle gradients and scenic views along the creek and through wooded sections. In total, there are 17 easy routes available.
Road cycling routes around McCook primarily traverse a relatively flat landscape. You'll find numerous paved trails that often follow waterways like Salt Creek and connect various local woods and sloughs. Elevations are generally low, providing accessible riding conditions.
While the region is generally flat, there are moderate routes that offer longer distances. The Salt Creek – Salt Creek Woods loop from Harlem Avenue is a moderate 48.1-mile trail that takes about 3 hours 20 minutes to complete. Another option is the Saganashkee Slough – Centennial Trail loop from Stone Avenue, which is 34.6 miles long.
The road cycling routes in McCook are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paved trails and the scenic beauty of the creek-side paths and wooded parklands.
Many of the easy and moderate routes, particularly those along paved trails and through wooded areas with low elevation, are suitable for families. The gentle gradients of routes like the Brookfield Woods – Salt Creek loop from Brookfield make them enjoyable for a family outing.
Many routes offer views of natural attractions. You might cycle past Brookfield Woods, ride along the Salt Creek Greenway Red - Paved Trail, or see lakes such as Tomahawk Slough, Bullfrog Lake, and Maple Lake.
Yes, many of the popular road cycling routes in McCook are loops. Examples include the Salt Creek – Salt Creek Woods loop from Harlem Avenue and the Saganashkee Slough – Centennial Trail loop from Stone Avenue, providing convenient circular journeys.
The region's paved trails and generally low elevations make it accessible for much of the year. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer is also popular. Winter conditions can vary, so checking local weather is always advisable.
While specific coffee shop locations aren't detailed for each route, many routes connect through or near local towns and communities where you can find amenities. Planning your route with komoot allows you to discover points of interest along the way.
Route lengths vary significantly, from shorter, easy rides like the 9.5-mile Brookfield Woods – Salt Creek loop from Brookfield to longer moderate routes such as the 48.1-mile Salt Creek – Salt Creek Woods loop from Harlem Avenue. You can find routes ranging from under 10 miles to over 50 miles.


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