The best traffic-free bike rides around Lombard

Our guide features 4 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike routes around Lombard. These trails offer a range of experiences, from moderate to difficult, ensuring a suitable option for various skill levels.

The no-traffic gravel trails around Lombard generally range from moderate to difficult. For example, the Thoraise Tunnel – Thoraise Lock loop from Torpes - Boussières and the Quingey Bridge – Ruined Tower loop from Quingey are both rated as moderate. If you're looking for a more challenging ride, consider the Thoraise Lock – Bois d'ambre saint vit loop from Torpes - Boussières, which is rated as difficult.

While the routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, Lombard and the surrounding DuPage County offer many rail-trails like the Illinois Prairie Path and Great Western Trail, which are largely crushed limestone and suitable for families. These trails often have flatter sections ideal for a more relaxed family ride, though they are not specifically included in this guide's curated routes.

Many of the broader trail systems in the Lombard area, such as the Illinois Prairie Path, are known to be dog-friendly. Always check specific park or forest preserve regulations for leash requirements and any restrictions before heading out with your furry friend.

The Lombard area is rich in diverse landscapes. You can expect to ride through prairies, woodlands, and wetlands. Trails often follow former railroad corridors, offering a unique perspective of the region's natural beauty. Forest preserves like Danada and Hidden Lake feature scenic rolling terrain and opportunities for wildlife observation.

Yes, some routes pass by notable points of interest. For instance, the Thoraise Tunnel – Thoraise Lock loop from Torpes - Boussières is near the Thoraise Tunnel. The wider region also boasts attractions like the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans and the Osselle Cave, which are worth exploring if you're in the area.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Lombard, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter riding is possible, but trail conditions can vary greatly depending on snow and ice.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Pont – The double lock on the Doubs loop from Torpes - Boussières and the Bridge over the Loue – Chez Gervais loop from Charnay.

The komoot community rates the trails around Lombard highly, with an average score of 3.7 stars. Riders often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the varied natural scenery, and the well-maintained surfaces of the rail-trails that make for excellent gravel biking.

Lombard is served by Metra's Union Pacific West Line, which can provide access to the village. From there, you can connect to various local trails. Many of the major trail systems like the Illinois Prairie Path and Great Western Trail have access points within or near Lombard, making them potentially accessible via a short ride from public transport hubs.

Many of the larger trail systems and forest preserves in DuPage County, such as those connected to the Illinois Prairie Path and Great Western Trail, offer designated parking areas. For specific routes, it's always best to check the tour details on komoot, as starting points often have nearby parking facilities.