Green Lake – Busse Lake loop from Villa Park

If you're looking for a rewarding longer touring cycling route that combines natural beauty with a good workout, the Green Lake – Busse Lake loop from Villa Park is a solid choice. This moderate 30.9-mile (49.8 km) ride, with 406 feet (124 metres) of elevation gain, takes around 2 hours and 58 minutes to complete, offering a substantial day out on two wheels for those comfortable with longer distances.

What to expect on Green Lake – Busse Lake loop from Villa Park

As you pedal, you'll transition from the connecting Salt Creek Trail, which offers a mix of paved and crushed limestone sections through wooded areas, to the fully paved Busse Woods Trail. This main loop winds through 3,700 acres of natural space, providing expansive views of Busse Lake and its various segments. Keep an eye out for the unique 17-acre enclosed elk pasture, home to a resident elk herd, a definite highlight. The terrain is largely flat, making the pedaling itself quite manageable, but the overall distance means you'll want to be comfortable spending a few hours in the saddle.

Planning your visit

This route primarily utilizes the Salt Creek Trail to connect to the Busse Woods Trail, which is known for its paved, traffic-free main loop. While the Busse Woods section is very accessible, be aware that the Salt Creek Trail can involve some wayfinding due to its varied segments and connections. The trails are multi-use, so you'll share them with walkers and runners. Fall is a particularly beautiful time to visit, as the trees around Busse Lake display vibrant foliage.

Trail details

• Distance: 30.9 miles (49.8 km)
• Elevation gain: 406 feet (124 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 58 minutes