The best traffic-free bike rides around New Lenox

There are 9 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around New Lenox featured in this guide. These routes range from easy to moderate difficulty, ensuring options for various skill levels.

The touring cycling routes in New Lenox are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 23 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet, well-maintained paths and scenic natural surroundings.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes in New Lenox are suitable for families. The Gun Club Lake loop from Sharon's Bay Park is an easy, shorter option, perfect for a relaxed family outing. The Lions Park loop from New Lenox is another easy route that offers a pleasant ride.

Yes, many trails in the New Lenox area, including those within the Forest Preserve District of Will County, are dog-friendly. However, dogs must always be kept on a leash. Please ensure you check specific trail regulations before heading out, as rules can vary slightly between preserves.

You can expect a mix of paved and crushed gravel trails. The Old Plank Road Trail, for instance, is a 22-mile paved path. Other areas like the Spring Creek Greenway Trail in Hadley Valley Preserve offer a crushed surface. The Hickory Creek Bikeway, while paved, features some hilly sections through woodlands, providing varied elevation.

Yes, this guide includes several circular routes. For example, the Old Plank Road Trail – Lions Park loop from Laraway Road offers a longer, moderate circular ride. Shorter, easy loops like the Gun Club Lake loop from Sharon's Bay Park are also available.

The routes often pass through diverse natural landscapes. You can explore forests, prairies, savannas, and wetlands within preserves like Hickory Creek and Hadley Valley. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species. Notable natural attractions nearby include the Orland Grassland, known for rare grassland birds, and the Hickory Creek Forest.

Many of the major trails, such as the Old Plank Road Trail and Route 30 Bikeway, have multiple access points with designated parking areas. For instance, Lions Den Park in New Lenox provides access to the Old Plank Road Trail, and Hickory Creek Preserve – Hickory Creek Barrens offers parking for the Route 30 Bikeway. Check specific trailheads for detailed parking information.

New Lenox's downtown area and surrounding communities offer various dining options. While specific bike-friendly cafes directly on the trails might be limited, many establishments are a short detour away. Planning your route to pass through New Lenox or nearby Mokena and Frankfort will provide opportunities for refreshments and meals.

Spring, summer, and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for cycling in New Lenox. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. Some trails, like the Route 30 Bikeway, are also suitable for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter, offering a different kind of outdoor experience.

The Hickory Creek Bikeway is a crucial connector, linking both the Old Plank Road Trail and the Route 30 Bikeway. This network allows cyclists to create longer, more varied rides by combining different segments. For more information on the Hickory Creek Bikeway, you can visit reconnectwithnature.org, and for the Route 30 Bikeway, see reconnectwithnature.org.