The best road cycling routes around Chicago Heights

Chicago Heights offers a diverse selection of over 25 road cycling routes. These include 17 easy routes and 11 moderate routes, catering to various skill levels.

The terrain around Chicago Heights is primarily characterized by well-maintained, paved surfaces with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for most fitness levels. While generally flat, some routes in the broader Chicagoland area may feature gentle 'rollers' for those seeking slight inclines.

Yes, Chicago Heights is well-suited for beginners and families due to its predominantly flat and paved trails. Routes like the Thorn Creek Trail and the Old Plank Road Trail loop from Matteson are excellent easy options, offering scenic rides through natural areas.

Road cycling routes in Chicago Heights often traverse diverse natural landscapes within the Forest Preserves of Cook County. You can expect to see prairies, oak savannas, and wetlands. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species and potentially bald eagles or beavers, especially along trails like the Old Plank Road Trail.

Yes, several routes pass by notable points of interest. The Old Plank Road Trail itself is a significant feature, offering a long paved route. You might also encounter the Illinois Pennsy Greenway or the Calumet Avenue Pedestrian Bridge. The Plum Valley Preserve and the Plum Creek Greenway Trail are also key natural attractions in the area.

Yes, many road cycling options in Chicago Heights are designed as loops. For example, the Old Plank Road Trail loop from Matteson is a popular choice, as is the longer Thorn Creek Red Paved Trail – Old Plank Road Trail loop from Sauk Village.

Many trailheads and forest preserves in the Chicago Heights area offer dedicated parking facilities. For instance, trails like the Old Plank Road Trail and the Thorn Creek Red Paved Trail typically have accessible parking areas at various entry points along their routes.

While specific public transport connections directly to all trailheads might vary, the extensive network of trails, including the Old Plank Road Trail and Thorn Creek Trail System, are generally accessible within the broader Chicago Heights and Chicagoland area. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for the most current information on reaching specific starting points.

The road cycling routes in Chicago Heights are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 7 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-maintained paved surfaces, the scenic natural preserves, and the accessibility of routes for various skill levels.

For an easy ride, consider the Thorn Creek Trail, which is 27.2 miles (43.8 km) and follows the picturesque Thorn Creek. Another great easy option is the Thorn Creek Red Paved Trail – Glenwood Woods loop from Lansing, a shorter 24 km ride.

Yes, for longer rides, the Thorn Creek Red Paved Trail – Old Plank Road Trail loop from Sauk Village offers a substantial 59.6 miles (95.9 km) route, providing an extended journey through natural preserves and along paved paths.

The best time for road cycling in Chicago Heights is generally during the spring, summer, and fall months when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is vibrant. These seasons offer comfortable temperatures for longer rides and allow you to fully appreciate the prairies, oak savannas, and wetlands.