The best cycling routes around Lake Forest
4.9
(116)
562
riders
14
rides
Touring cycling routes around Lake Forest offer diverse landscapes, from the Lake Michigan shoreline to extensive prairies and woodlands. The region features a comprehensive network of bike trails, including major paved north-south paths like the North Shore Bike Path and the Robert McClory Bike Path. Cyclists can experience varied terrain, from smooth paths to segments with moderate elevation changes, making routes accessible for different skill levels. Natural features include bluffs, wetlands, and the Skokie River, protecting watershed habitats and forestland.
Best touring cycling routes around Lake Forest
- The most popular touring cycling route is Des Plaines River Trail and Robert McClory Bike Path Loop, a difficult 43.1 miles (69.4 km) trail that takes 5 hours 7 minutes to complete. This route combines two major paths, offering a mix of natural scenery and established bikeways.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Grosse Point Lighthouse – Green Bay Trail loop from Lake Forest, a moderate 41.1 miles (66.2 km) path. This trail provides views of Lake Michigan and passes through various natural areas.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Skokie Lagoons – North Branch Trail loop from Fort Sheridan, a 33.3 miles (53.6 km) trail leading through woodlands and along the Skokie River, often completed in about 3 hours 21 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Lake Forest is defined by its Lake Michigan shoreline, extensive prairies, and peaceful river corridors. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy rides to more challenging loops.
- The routes in Lake Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 400 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Lake Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
5.0
(2)
30
riders
66.0km
03:59
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(9)
21
riders
43.2km
02:31
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.8
(10)
16
riders
42.1km
02:34
90m
90m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
16
riders
53.6km
03:22
90m
90m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
9
riders
41.3km
03:13
120m
120m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures around Lake Forest
Tips from the Community
Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette This is one of eight continental Bahá’í temples worldwide and serves as a spiritual center for all of North America. • The temple is open to people of all faiths and is intended as a place for prayer, meditation, and reflection, without sermons or organized worship services. • Inside, sacred texts from various world religions are read or sung without instrumental accompaniment. A domed prayer hall with nine entrances, nine alcoves, and nine fountains—the number nine symbolizing unity and spiritual wholeness. • Detailed concrete cladding in a lacy style, made of Portland cement and quartz. • Religious symbols from various faiths, such as the Christian cross, the Star of David, and the Islamic crescent, are incorporated into the exterior pillars. • Inside the dome, the “Greatest Name” is inscribed in Arabic script, meaning “O Thou Glory of Glories.”
1
0
If you are biking along the North Branch Red Paved Trail or the dirt horse trail that follows the Skokie River, you'll pass through a bunch of different parks and preserves. The Watersmeet Woods is one of those natural preserves that the trails pass through.
0
0
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.
0
0
This easy multi-use trail makes its way through a number of neighborhoods and parks. It's a great place to escape to for a relaxing ride.
0
0
This is a wonderful beach at Wilmette. You can spot migratory birds as they fly over Lake Michigan. It's a very diverse area for nature – sandy shore, dunes, parkland and native plantings. There's also a beach house and dog beach.
0
0
From this location you'll have an amazing view across Lake Michigan to the Chicago Skyline in the distance.
0
0
Set on the shores of Lake Michigan this is the second Baha'i Temple ever built. The Baha'i Faith is based in unity of all people therefore everyone is welcome to visit the temple.
0
0
Lovely water feature behind / south of the Lighthouse
0
1
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Lake Forest?
Lake Forest offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 50 options available for exploration. These routes cater to various preferences, from easy rides to more challenging loops.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling in Lake Forest?
Touring cyclists in Lake Forest can enjoy diverse landscapes, including the stunning Lake Michigan shoreline and bluffs, extensive prairies, and serene woodlands. Areas like Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve offer scenic lake views, while Middlefork Savanna showcases rare tallgrass savannas, wetlands, and rivers.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, Lake Forest provides numerous options for families and beginners. Out of over 50 routes, 25 are classified as easy, offering gentle elevation changes and accessible terrain. The extensive network of trails, including paved bike paths, makes it ideal for all ages and fitness levels.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Lake Forest?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Lake Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Grosse Point Lighthouse – Green Bay Trail loop from Lake Forest and the Skokie Lagoons – North Branch Trail loop from Fort Sheridan, which offer varied scenery and convenient circular paths.
What are some notable natural features or attractions I can see along the routes?
Along Lake Forest's touring cycling routes, you can discover several natural attractions. Highlights include the tranquil Independence Grove Lake, the scenic Half Day Forest Preserve Ponds, and the peaceful Minear Lake. You might also encounter the Des Plaines River bridge and explore areas like MacArthur Woods Forest Preserve.
How do other touring cyclists rate the routes in Lake Forest?
The touring cycling routes in Lake Forest are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an impressive average rating of 4.9 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the well-maintained trails, diverse scenery, and the peaceful atmosphere of the region's natural settings.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, Lake Forest offers several difficult routes. One notable option is the Des Plaines River Trail and Robert McClory Bike Path Loop, a 43.1-mile trail that combines two major paths and takes approximately 5 hours to complete.
What are the main types of bike paths available in Lake Forest?
Lake Forest features an extensive network of trails, including two major paved north-south bike paths: the Robert McClory Bike Path and the Skokie Valley Bike Path. These paths, along with others in the Lake County Forest Preserves, provide well-maintained surfaces suitable for touring cyclists.
Can I access the touring cycling trails using public transport?
Yes, Lake Forest's cycling infrastructure is well-integrated with public transport. The Robert McClory Bike Path, for instance, runs adjacent to the Union Pacific North Line Metra tracks and has 12 access points within Lake Forest, making it convenient to reach by train.
Are there any moderate-difficulty touring routes that offer varied scenery?
Absolutely. A great moderate option is the Small Lake – Skokie Valley Bikeway loop from Fort Sheridan. This 42.7-kilometer route offers a mix of landscapes and is typically completed in under 2.5 hours, providing a rewarding ride without extreme difficulty.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Lake Forest?
While specific seasonal recommendations aren't provided, Lake Forest's lush scenery and diverse natural landscapes suggest that spring, summer, and fall would be ideal for touring cycling. These seasons offer pleasant weather for enjoying the prairies, woodlands, and Lake Michigan shoreline.
Are there any routes that combine different major bike paths?
Yes, several routes cleverly combine different paths for a varied experience. The Skokie Valley Bikeway – Green Bay Trail loop from Lake Forest is a moderate 42.1-kilometer route that connects two significant bikeways, offering a comprehensive tour of the area's trail network.
Most popular attractions around Lake Forest
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
