The best traffic-free bike rides around Downers Grove

There are over 30 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Downers Grove, offering a variety of options for cyclists. These routes range from easy, shorter rides to more challenging, longer excursions.

The no-traffic routes around Downers Grove feature a mix of paved and crushed-limestone surfaces. Trails like the Waterfall Glen Trail are primarily crushed limestone, while others such as the Busse Woods/Ned Brown Forest Preserve Trail and the Cal Sag Trail are paved. While generally flat, areas south of Downers Grove, particularly around Lemont, offer more varied terrain and some gentle hills for those seeking a greater challenge.

Yes, several routes offer a circular experience. A notable example is the Centennial Trail – Centennial Trail loop from Belmont, which provides a substantial ride. The Waterfall Glen Trail, a popular 9.5-mile limestone trail, is also a well-known circular route encircling Argonne National Laboratory.

Spring through fall generally offers the most pleasant conditions for no-traffic road cycling in Downers Grove, with mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. However, many trails are maintained year-round, allowing for winter cycling, though conditions may vary with snow and ice.

The lengths of car-free bike paths vary significantly. You can find shorter loops like the Waterfall Glen Trail at 9.5 miles, or longer options such as the Cal Sag Trail at 13 miles. Routes like the Knock Knolls Park – DuPage River Trail loop from Belmont extend to over 40 miles, providing extensive riding opportunities.

Many popular trailheads offer dedicated parking. For instance, the Waterfall Glen Trail has main trailheads with parking facilities. Other trails like the Centennial Trail and the Illinois Prairie Path also have various access points with parking available along their routes, often near forest preserves or parks.

Absolutely! The routes often pass through or near beautiful natural areas. You can explore the West Branch Riverway Forest Preserve, the Danada Forest Preserve, or cross the scenic Wooden Bridge on DuPage River Greenway. The region is rich with forest preserves like Hidden Lake and Lyman Woods, offering diverse landscapes of oak savannas, prairies, and marshes.

Many of the no-traffic routes are suitable for families, especially those with paved or well-maintained crushed-limestone surfaces and relatively flat terrain. Shorter, circular trails like the Waterfall Glen Trail are popular choices for family outings. Always check the specific route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's comfort level.

Most forest preserve trails in DuPage County, including many of the no-traffic cycling routes, allow dogs on a leash. However, specific rules can vary by preserve or trail section. It's always best to check local regulations for the particular trail you plan to visit to ensure it's dog-friendly.

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic road cycling experience around Downers Grove, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of well-maintained trails, the blend of urban accessibility with natural escapes, and the quiet, scenic environments that allow for uninterrupted riding.

While popular trails like Waterfall Glen can see significant use, exploring routes that connect to broader systems like the Illinois Prairie Path or the Great Western Trail can offer longer stretches with fewer people, especially during off-peak hours or weekdays. The Prince Pond – Lake Harriet loop from Downers Grove Main Street is an easy option that might offer a quieter experience.